Roll-Out Quick Apple Cookies

These soft, cake-like apple cookies are a delightful twist on traditional rolled cookies. They’re perfect for when you want the fun of cut-out cookies without the long chill time!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar

• ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar, packed

• 1 large egg, room temperature

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour

• ½ cup (60g) whole wheat flour (or use all-purpose)

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

• ½ cup finely grated apple (peeled before grating)

• 2 tablespoons rolled oats (optional, for texture)

For the Topping (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2-3 tablespoons apple cider or milk

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles

Instructions

1. Prepare Apple: Peel and finely grate the apple. Squeeze out excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels (important for dough consistency).

2. Cream Butter & Sugars: In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).

3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in egg and vanilla until combined. Stir in grated apple.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

5. Make Dough: Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Stir in oats if using. The dough will be soft but should hold together.

6. Roll Immediately: On a floured surface, roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. No chilling needed! If dough sticks, flour rolling pin lightly.

7. Cut & Bake:

   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)

   • Use cookie cutters to cut shapes

   • Place on parchment-lined baking sheets

   • Bake 8-10 minutes until edges are light golden

   • Cool on baking sheet 2 minutes before transferring to rack

8. Optional Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, apple cider/milk, and cinnamon until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.

Quick Variations

Apple Spice Drops (No-roll option):

• Drop by tablespoonfuls onto baking sheets

• Flatten slightly with a glass

• Bake as directed

Apple Thumbprints:

• Roll into 1-inch balls

• Make indentation with thumb

• Fill with jam after baking

Streusel Top:

• Mix 2 tbsp flour, 1 tbsp butter, 1 tbsp oats, 1 tbsp brown sugar

• Sprinkle before baking

Tips for Success

• Squeeze apple well to prevent soggy dough

• Work quickly – dough is best when rolled immediately

• Flour surfaces lightly to prevent sticking

• Don’t overbake – cookies will be soft when warm

• Store airtight – stays moist for 3-4 days

Perfect for autumn baking, lunchboxes, or a quick treat with coffee!