Imagine coming home to the sweet and cozy aroma of freshly baked treats that perfectly capture the essence of fall. In this recipe, we bring you the delightful Autumn Spice Cookie, a perfect blend of warm spices and autumn flavors that will instantly fill your home with comfort and joy.
**Autumn Spice Cookie**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger until well combined.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
6. If desired, gently fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts and raisins or dried cranberries for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
7. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly underbaked, but they will continue to set as they cool.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Autumn Spice Cookies are the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea on a crisp fall day or to share with loved ones during cozy gatherings. The warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger combined with the soft sweetness of raisins or dried cranberries will surely become a seasonal favorite in your home. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins or enjoying them as they are – either way, they are bound to bring a smile to your face and a touch of autumn magic to your kitchen.