Start off Fall with Delicious Apple Spice Cookies and Caramel Icing

by | Sep 17, 2024 | Desserts

Embrace the flavors of fall with these irresistible Apple Spice Cookies. Each bite bursts with juicy bits of fresh apple and plump raisins, perfectly complemented by a medley of warm spices. To make these cookies even more delectable, we’ve added a luscious caramel frosting to spread over them, creating a sweet finish. These cookies are perfect for cozy afternoons, holiday gatherings, or simply as a treat to celebrate fall. Makes 20 cookies.

1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature

¾ cup sugar

½ cup grams dark brown sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp ginger

1/4 teaspoon clove

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp kosher salt

2 cups apple, peeled, and diced into small cubes, ¼ inch

½ cup raisins

For the Frosting

6 tbsp butter

3 cups powdered sugar

Pinch of salt

2 tbsp caramel sauce

2 to 3 tablespoons water

Preheat the oven to 350°F . Line two sheet trays with parchment paper.

Using a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream butter and sugars until smooth and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time mixing completely between each one. Add the vanilla and mix until all are incorporated.

Whisk together flour, spices, baking soda, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Add the flour mixture and stir in the apples and raisins, mixing well until incorporated.

Scoop 3 tablespoon-sized balls onto parchment-lined sheet pans. Bake for 12 minutes until barely golden around the edges. Place on a rack and cool completely before adding the frosting.

Make the Frosting

Melt butter in a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring constantly and watching closely, for 5-6 minutes or until butter turns a golden brown color. Remove from heat, cool completely, then strain to remove brown bits.

Combine the browned butter, powdered sugar, salt, and caramel in a bowl. Using a mixer, beat at medium speed, gradually adding enough water to achieve the desired spreading consistency. Spread the frosting over the cooled cookies and let set for about 30 minutes.