If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious cookie recipe that’s perfect for any time of the year, you’re in for a treat! Learn how to make the easiest Applesauce Cookies, packed with flavor, moisture, and a hint of fall spices. These cookies are light, chewy, and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert!
Why You'll Love These Craveworthy Cookies
- Healthy. Made with applesauce, these cookies have reduced fat and are a lighter alternative to traditional cookies.
- Moist and Chewy. The applesauce keeps these cookies soft, tender, and chewy for days.
- Quick and Easy. Ready in under 30 minutes, these cookies are perfect for busy mornings or afternoon treats.
- Fall Flavors. Cinnamon and nutmeg bring that cozy, warm flavor we all crave in cooler weather.
These Applesauce Cookies are the perfect snack for kids or adults who want something wholesome but still a little sweet. You can make them in one bowl with simple ingredients, making them a go-to recipe for any time you need a quick treat!
What Do Applesauce Cookies Taste Like?
Applesauce Cookies are incredibly delicious, with a soft and chewy texture. The sweetness of applesauce combined with cinnamon and nutmeg creates a comforting fall-inspired cookie that isn’t overly sweet but still satisfies your cravings.
Are Applesauce Cookies Healthy?
The use of applesauce not only makes these cookies moist but also reduces the amount of butter or oil needed, making them a healthier option. Plus, the subtle apple flavor gives these cookies a unique twist compared to traditional sugar or chocolate chip cookies.
Ingredients You'll Need
- All-Purpose Flour- Provides structure and makes the cookies light and soft.
- Baking Soda- Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg- Classic fall spices that add warmth and depth of flavor.
- Salt- Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Unsalted Butter- Adds richness to the cookies (optional, since the applesauce can reduce fat content).
- Granulated Sugar- Sweetens the cookies while adding a slight crunch on the edges.
- Brown Sugar- Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like flavor.
- Egg- Helps bind the ingredients together and creates a tender texture.
- Vanilla Extract- Adds a hint of sweetness and enhances the flavor of the applesauce.
- Applesauce- The star of the recipe! It keeps the cookies moist, tender, and adds natural sweetness.
How To Make Applesauce Cookies
- Prepare the Dough. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
- Mix in the Applesauce. Gradually add in the applesauce and mix until well combined. The applesauce will make the dough soft and slightly sticky.
- Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep the cookies soft.
- Scoop and Bake. Using a cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Tips And Tricks
Making Applesauce Cookies is a breeze, but a few helpful tips can ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:
- Use Unsweetened Applesauce. This allows you to control the sweetness of the cookies. If you prefer sweeter cookies, you can use sweetened applesauce, but you may want to reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.
- Don't Overmix. Once the dry ingredients are added, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Add Mix-ins. If you're feeling adventurous, add chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Variations
If you're a fan of Applesauce Cookies and want to try some creative variations, here are a few delicious ideas to explore:
- Oatmeal- Add rolled oats for extra texture and a wholesome feel.
- Chocolate Chip- Stir in a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet, gooey surprise.
- Gluten-Free- Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
What To Enjoy With Applesauce Cookies
Applesauce Cookies pair well with a variety of snacks and beverages. Here are some ideas to serve alongside them:
- Hot Drinks- Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot apple cider for the perfect fall snack.
- Milk- Serve with a glass of cold milk for a classic, comforting pairing.
- Fruit- Applesauce Cookies go great with fresh fruit slices or a fruit salad.
How Long Do They Last?
Applesauce Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
The cookies will stay soft and chewy, but if you prefer a crisper texture, bake them for a minute or two longer.
Can You Freeze Them?
Yes! Applesauce Cookies freeze beautifully. To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the oven for a few minutes.
More Amazing Apple-Flavored Recipes
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Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups All Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp Ground Nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 Egg
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup Unsweetened Applesauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
- Mix in the Applesauce. Gradually add in the applesauce and mix until well combined. The applesauce will make the dough soft and slightly sticky.
- Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep the cookies soft.
- Scoop and Bake. Using a cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
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