Apple Cookies with a Sweet Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking to take your cookie game to the next level, these apple cookies with a sweet cinnamon glaze are the perfect treat. The combination of fresh apples and warm cinnamon creates a cozy and delicious dessert that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re easy to make, making them ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike!
Growing up, my grandmother always had a batch of these delightful cookies ready every Sunday afternoon. The sweet smell of cinnamon and baked apples drifting through the house was an aroma that meant family, warmth, and comfort. My siblings and I would eagerly help her in the kitchen, taking turns adding ingredients and sneaking bites of the cookie dough. Today, every time I bake these cookies, I’m reminded of those joyous childhood afternoons spent baking and laughing together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies stand out for their unique blend of flavors and ease of preparation. The apple provides a natural sweetness and moisture that makes each cookie incredibly tender and flavorful. The cinnamon glaze adds just the right amount of spice and sweetness, elevating these cookies above your average dessert. Additionally, this recipe requires minimal ingredients, making it budget-friendly and conveniently quick to whip up for unexpected guests or a last-minute snack.
Ingredients Notes
To ensure the best results, opt for crisp and tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, which hold up well during baking. If you’re out of cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice are great substitutes for that warm spice flavor. For a gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour, both of which complement the apple beautifully.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
Step 2
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for light, airy cookies. Gradually add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until blended well. Fold in the diced apples gently.
Step 4
Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread while baking.
Step 5
Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once cooled, drizzle with cinnamon glaze.
Storage Options
Stored in an airtight container, these cookies keep well at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in a preheated oven for 5 minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, which will also add a subtle coconut flavor. For an extra flavor twist, add a pinch of cardamom to the dough, or substitute half the apple with shredded zucchini for a veggie-packed treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of apples? Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended for their texture and tartness, feel free to experiment with other favorites like Gala or Fuji. Just keep in mind that softer apples might result in a slightly mushier texture.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe? Yes, making these cookies vegan is easy! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce for added moisture.
How do I make the cinnamon glaze? Creating the glaze is a simple process. Mix powdered sugar, a dash of cinnamon, and a few tablespoons of milk (or a non-dairy alternative) until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Drizzle over cooled cookies for the final touch.

Apple Cookies with a Sweet Cinnamon Glaze Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon ground
- 1 cup apple finely chopped
- 0.5 cup butter softened
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in the flour and cinnamon until well blended. Fold in the chopped apples.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let cookies cool on a wire rack.
- Drizzle with cinnamon glaze before serving.