Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies: A Delightful Fall Treat

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisper, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of apple cider wafting through the kitchen. One indulgent way to embrace the flavors of autumn is with Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies. Combining the tangy richness of cheesecake with the warm spices associated with fall, these cookies are a must-try for any season. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, benefits of making this delightful treat, tips for perfecting your cookies, what to expect in terms of taste, how to store them, and some frequently asked questions.

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of these delicious Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Apple Cider Reduction:

2 cups (480 ml) apple cider

For the Cheesecake Filling:

6 oz (170 g) cream cheese, cold
3 tbsp (38 g) granulated white sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla

For the Apple Cider Cookies:

1 3/4 cups (218 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
2 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
2 egg yolks, at room temperature
2 tsp vanilla
2 tbsp (30 ml) apple cider reduction from above

For the Spiced Sugar:

1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
Pinch ground allspice
1-2 tbsp (14-28 g) salted butter, melted

Instructions

Creating these delectable cookies is a straightforward process:

Prepare the Apple Cider Reduction: In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Lower the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 1/3 cup. This should take approximately 15-20 minutes. Allow it to cool before using.
Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine cold cream cheese, granulated white sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Prepare the Dough: In another mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated white sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg yolks, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons of the cooled apple cider reduction, mixing until well combined.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Do not overmix.
Form the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out a portion of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Add a small spoonful of the cheesecake filling in the center, fold the dough around the filling, and roll it into a ball. Repeat this process for the remaining dough and filling, placing them on a lined baking sheet.
Prepare the Spiced Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated white sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground allspice. Brush the tops of each cookie ball with melted salted butter and roll them in the spiced sugar mixture.
Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers appear set. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Benefits of This Craft

Making Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies offers more than just a tasty treat. The process allows for creativity in the kitchen, combining the flavors of two beloved desserts: cheesecake and cookies. Engaging with seasonal ingredients like apple cider not only enhances the flavor profile but also provides an opportunity to educate oneself about their uses. Additionally, baking can be a therapeutic activity, allowing for relaxation and mindfulness in preparing a delightful dish that can be shared with family and friends.

Tips

To make the most out of your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies, here are some helpful tips:

Ensure that your cream cheese is cold. This helps achieve the right consistency for the filling.
When preparing the apple cider reduction, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Don’t skip the spiced sugar coating; it adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the cookies beautifully.
For a touch of decadence, consider drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over the finished cookies after they have cooled.

What Do They Taste Like?

Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies offer a unique blend of flavors that will transport your taste buds to autumn. The rich and creamy cheesecake filling contrasts beautifully with the spiced cookies, creating a delightful texture. The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice evoke the cozy feeling of fall, while the apple cider reduction infuses every bite with a fruity sweetness. Overall, these cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet, savory, and delightful.

How to Store

For optimal freshness, store your Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for longer, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer-term storage, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies are a delicious testament to the flavors of fall, offering a unique twist on two favorite desserts. With their indulgently creamy filling and aromatic spices, these cookies are bound to become a seasonal favorite. By following the simple recipe and tips provided above, you can create a batch that is sure to impress family and friends alike. So why not embrace the spirit of the season and whip up a delicious batch of these cookies today?

FAQ

1. Can I use fresh apple cider instead of store-bought?
Yes, fresh apple cider can elevate the flavor of your cookies. Just make sure to reduce it as indicated in the recipe.

2. Can I make the cheesecake filling in advance?
Absolutely! The cheesecake filling can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the cookies.

3. Can I substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option?
Yes, using a gluten-free flour blend can work. However, results may vary, so be sure to check the texture and adjust as necessary.

4. What can I use if I don’t have spiced sugar?
You can mix together granulated sugar with cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg as a substitute or simply omit it for a simpler taste.

5. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges of the cookies should be lightly golden and the centers should look set but still soft. They will firm up as they cool.

Apple Cider Cheesecake Cookies