Glazed Apple Cookies
Soft, cake-like apple cookies filled with raisins and walnuts and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze. The perfect homemade cookie for fall!
If you’re looking for a cozy fall cookie that’s a little different from the usual pumpkin recipes, these Glazed Apple Cookies are just the thing! They’re soft, tender, and packed with little bites of fresh apple, plump raisins, and crunchy walnuts.
And then there’s that glaze! A simple vanilla glaze drizzled over the warm cookies adds just the right amount of sweetness.
AN EASY APPLE COOKIE FOR FALL
Fall is my absolute favorite time of year. There’s just something about the cool, crisp air, colorful leaves, fall festivals, and all those wonderful apple recipes that makes this season extra special.
These Glazed Apple Cookies originally came from The Harvest Table cookbook from Gooseberry Patch. When I first made them, I knew they were going to be a keeper.
These aren’t your typical crisp or chewy cookies. They’re more like little apple cake cookies—soft, fluffy, and full of fall flavor.
The combination of fresh chopped apples, raisins, brown sugar, and walnuts makes every bite delicious. Drizzle that sweet vanilla glaze over the top while the cookies are still warm, and you have one seriously irresistible fall treat.
They’re wonderful with a hot cup of coffee or apple cider, and they’re also perfect for sharing with friends and family.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What kind of apples are best for Glazed Apple Cookies?
You can use just about any good baking apple. Granny Smith apples are great if you like a little tartness, while Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples will give the cookies a sweeter apple flavor.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Yes. For the best texture, peel and core the apple before chopping it into small pieces. Finely chopped apples will distribute more evenly throughout the cookie dough.
Why do you soak the raisins?
Soaking the raisins in hot water helps plump them up so they stay soft and juicy while the cookies bake.
Can I leave out the walnuts?
Absolutely! If you don't care for nuts, simply leave them out. You could also substitute pecans if that's what you have on hand.
Why should I make these cookies small?
These cookies have a soft, cake-like texture. Keeping them on the smaller side helps them hold together better and makes them easier to eat.
How should I store Glazed Apple Cookies?
Once the glaze has completely set, store the cookies in an airtight container. Because they contain fresh apples, I recommend enjoying them within a few days for the best flavor and texture.
HOW TO MAKE GLAZED APPLE COOKIES
Start by placing the raisins in a microwave-safe bowl and covering them with water. Microwave for 4–5 minutes, until the raisins are soft and plump. Drain them well and set aside.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Cream together the shortening and brown sugar, then mix in the beaten egg.
Gradually add half of the flour mixture. Blend in the milk followed by the remaining flour mixture.
Fold in the plumped raisins, chopped walnuts, and finely chopped apples.
Drop the cookie dough by teaspoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
Bake at 400°F for 9–10 minutes.
While the cookies are still warm, drizzle them with the homemade vanilla glaze.
TIPS & VARIATIONS
Keep them small. These are soft, cake-like cookies, so smaller cookies tend to hold together better.
Chop the apples finely. Small pieces of apple distribute throughout the dough and give you apple flavor in every bite.
Swap the nuts. Pecans can be used instead of walnuts.
Add some spice. A little cinnamon or apple pie spice would be a delicious addition if you want even more fall flavor.
Don't skip the glaze! Drizzling the glaze over the warm cookies gives them that extra touch of sweetness that makes them so good.
PERFECT FOR SHARING
One of my favorite things about these cookies is how easy they are to share. Stack a few in a clear treat bag, tie it with a pretty fall ribbon, and you have an easy homemade gift for neighbors, teachers, friends, or family.
Or just keep them at home and enjoy one with a hot cup of coffee. I won't tell!
These Glazed Apple Cookies are a simple old-fashioned treat that deserves a spot on your fall baking list.







