A few APPLES and quick baking for your tea! A very simple cookie recipe!

### Instructions for Making Simple Apple Cookies

#### 1. **Prepare the Apples**
Start by peeling, coring, and finely chopping the **apples** into small pieces or small cubes. If you want to keep them from browning, toss the chopped apples in **lemon juice**. Set the apples aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the cookie dough.

#### 2. **Make the Cookie Dough**
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the **butter** and **sugar** until light and fluffy. This will only take about 2-3 minutes of mixing with an electric mixer or by hand. Add the **egg** and **vanilla extract**, and continue mixing until everything is well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **cinnamon**, **baking powder**, and **salt**. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough will be a little thicker, but still soft.

#### 3. **Incorporate the Apples**
Once the dough is ready, gently fold in the chopped apples. The moisture from the apples will help keep the cookies soft and chewy. If you’re using optional add-ins like **chopped walnuts** or **raisins**, fold them in as well for extra flavor and texture.

#### 4. **Shape the Cookies**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)** and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The cookies will spread a little as they bake, so be sure to give them enough space.

#### 5. **Bake the Cookies**
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for **12-15 minutes**, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. They should be soft but set in the middle. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to avoid over-baking.

#### 6. **Cool and Serve**
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm, or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

### Why This Recipe Works

– **Soft and Chewy**: The apples in this recipe not only add sweetness but also contribute moisture, keeping the cookies soft and chewy rather than dry or crumbly.
– **Simple and Quick**: This recipe requires only a few steps and minimal ingredients, making it ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a quick baking project.
– **Perfectly Spiced**: The addition of **cinnamon** and the natural tartness of the apples creates a perfect balance of flavors. These cookies are lightly spiced, making them perfect for any season, but especially fall and winter.

### Tips and Variations

– **Adjust the Sweetness**: Depending on the type of apple you use, you might want to adjust the sugar. Tart apples like Granny Smith need a little extra sweetness, while sweeter apples may need less sugar.
– **Add More Flavor**: If you like a deeper flavor, try adding a pinch of **nutmeg** or a small splash of **maple syrup** to the dough for extra warmth.
– **Try Different Fruits**: While apples are the star of this recipe, feel free to swap them out for other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries. These substitutions can give the cookies a slightly different flavor profile.
– **Make Them Vegan**: To make these cookies vegan, swap the **butter** for a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) in place of the egg.
– **Make Them Gluten-Free**: You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Be sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free.

### Conclusion

These **Apple Cookies** are a perfect treat when you need something quick, easy, and delicious to enjoy with your tea. With the natural sweetness of apples, a hint of cinnamon, and a soft, chewy texture, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re making them for a simple snack, a cozy tea time, or to share with family and friends, they’re sure to bring comfort and joy to every bite.

So, the next time you find yourself with a couple of apples and a craving for something sweet, give this **Apple Cookie Recipe** a try. It’s a fast, simple, and utterly delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the season in a homemade treat.