Applesauce Refrigerator Cookies
Soft, cinnamon-spiced applesauce refrigerator cookies with chopped nuts, perfect for quick baking and satisfying a sweet tooth with a wholesome flavor. Ideal for cookie lovers and snack enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together shortening and sugar.
- Add egg and mix well.
- Sift together flour, soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the creamed mixture, alternating with applesauce.
- Stir in chopped nuts until well combined.
- Wrap the dough in waxed paper and store in the refrigerator.
- Slice the chilled dough thinly.
- Bake on a greased cookie sheet in a moderate oven at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg. If you want a healthier option, substitute half of the shortening with applesauce or use coconut oil. For a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Ensure you sift the flour for a lighter texture, which is especially important in cookies like Date-Apple Muffins.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be served with a glass of cold milk or a cup of tea for a cozy treat. For a festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar before serving or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a great addition to dessert platters alongside Christina'S Pumpkin Bread or Busy Day Coffee Cake for a varied dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the wrapped cookie dough in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Once baked, keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore their freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Refrigerator Cookies contains roughly 1798 calories, with 13g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 137g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2016mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another type of fruit puree instead of applesauce?
Yes, you can substitute applesauce with other fruit purees like pear or pumpkin puree. Just ensure the consistency is similar to thick applesauce to maintain the right texture in the cookies. Adjust spices accordingly if you use pumpkin, as it pairs well with cinnamon and nutmeg.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and still soft in the center. Be sure to check them at the 15-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze the rolled dough for longer storage. Just slice it and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).