Applesauce Cookies are a cozy, autumn-inspired treat that embodies the essence of the season. These soft, spiced cookies are made with the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of applesauce, and a hint of vanilla. Biting into one is like a warm hug for your taste buds. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of creating these delectable cookies. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or are in search of keto and low-carb adaptations, these cookies will quickly become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
To prepare a batch of Applesauce Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup raisins (optional)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in the applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Optional Mix-Ins:
- Fold in the raisins and chopped walnuts if you’re using them. These add a delightful texture and extra sweetness to the cookies.
6. Drop and Bake:
- Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are evenly spaced.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool and Enjoy:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Notes
- The key to achieving soft and tender Applesauce Cookies is not to overbake them. They may still look slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
- You can customize these cookies with various mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even a drizzle of glaze made with powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness.
Variations
- Get creative with the spices by adding a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for a more complex flavor profile.
- For a citrus twist, zest a lemon or orange and add it to the dough for a fresh, zesty aroma.
Keto Version To adapt this recipe for a keto-friendly version, use almond flour or a keto baking mix instead of all-purpose flour. Substitute granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit. While the applesauce is typically high in carbs, you can use a small amount of unsweetened applesauce or a sugar-free apple extract for a keto-friendly flavor. Be mindful of carb count and sweeteners to stay within your keto goals.
Low-Carb Version For a low-carb adaptation, opt for almond flour or coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour. Use a low-carb sweetener and a small amount of unsweetened applesauce or apple extract for the apple flavor without the carbs. Additionally, reduce or omit the raisins and walnuts to lower the carb content while still enjoying the delightful spiced flavor of these cookies.
Applesauce Cookies are a delightful treat that celebrates the warmth of autumn flavors. Whether you prepare the classic recipe or explore keto and low-carb adaptations, these cookies will bring a smile to your face with their soft texture and comforting taste. Share them with family and friends, and savor every delicious bite. These cookies are a reminder of the joy that baking can bring to your kitchen.
