Glazed Applesauce Cookies
Chewy glazed applesauce cookies packed with warm spices, raisins, and nuts, perfect for fall baking or a comforting treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the shortening, ground cloves, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and egg until smooth.
- Sift the flour with the baking soda. Add half of the flour mixture to the shortening mixture and blend well.
- Stir in the chopped raisins, chopped nuts, and canned applesauce.
- Add the remaining flour and mix thoroughly.
- Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets and spread out slightly, as they do not spread much during baking.
- Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 11 to 14 minutes.
- While still hot, spread with a thin coating of glaze.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. You can also substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the brown sugar slightly. Ensure your applesauce is unsweetened to maintain the right balance of flavors. Experiment with adding oats for texture, similar to American recipes that include oats in cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These glazed applesauce cookies make a delightful treat on their own or paired with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Martha'S Almond Bark Coconut Balls during the holidays. They also pair well with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a decorative finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glazed Applesauce Cookies contains roughly 164 calories, with 2g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
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 homemade applesauce instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade applesauce can enhance the flavor of these cookies. Just ensure it's smooth and not overly watery. You may need to adjust the flour slightly if the consistency differs from store-bought applesauce. The natural sweetness of homemade applesauce can also allow you to reduce the sugar in the recipe.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you’re not a fan of raisins, consider using dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. These alternatives will add a unique twist to the cookies while still providing a chewy texture. Just keep the quantity similar to maintain balance in the cookie dough.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To add a festive flair, try incorporating chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, and add a pinch of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy brightness. Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish. These variations will make your cookies stand out during celebrations or holiday gatherings.
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).