Applesauce cookies are a delightful, soft-baked treat filled with warm spices, raisins, and nuts. The unsweetened applesauce adds natural sweetness and keeps the cookies moist, while the combination of cinnamon and cloves creates a comforting aroma. These cookies are perfect for fall gatherings, holiday baking, or as an everyday snack to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Join our Vintage Recipe Facebook Group to discuss and find “new” old recipes to enjoy.
Links to find other recipes:
Applesauce Cookies
FAQ for Applesauce Cookies
Can I use sweetened applesauce?
Yes, but you may want to reduce the sugar slightly to balance the sweetness.
What type of nuts work best?
Walnuts or pecans are great choices, but any nut you enjoy can be used.
Can I skip the raisins?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of raisins, simply leave them out or substitute with dried cranberries or chocolate chips.
What is the best way to measure flour for this recipe?
Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing in too much flour, which could make the cookies dense.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be set, but the centers may look slightly soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a minute or two before transferring to a rack.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.
Step into the charm of yesteryear with Vintage Recipe Box 044 from Warren, PA—where every card tells a story and every recipe is a delicious slice of history!
Food History
Applesauce cookies date back to early American baking when applesauce was commonly used as a sweetener and moisture enhancer. This was especially popular during the Great Depression, when eggs and butter were scarce. The addition of spices like cinnamon and cloves reflects the influence of traditional European baking, while the use of raisins and nuts ties the recipe to its frugal roots.
These cookies became a favorite in mid-20th-century cookbooks for their simplicity, affordability, and ability to stay fresh longer due to the moisture from the applesauce. Today, they remain a nostalgic treat that brings comfort and warmth with every bite.
Timeline
- 1800s: Applesauce becomes a common baking ingredient in American homes.
- 1900s: Spiced cookies rise in popularity, often featuring dried fruits and nuts.
- 1930s: Applesauce cookies gain recognition during the Great Depression as an economical and delicious treat.
- Mid-20th Century: Recipes for applesauce cookies appear in community cookbooks across the United States.
Recipe Discussion
These applesauce cookies are soft, spiced, and full of flavor. The unsweetened applesauce keeps them moist and tender, while the spices—cinnamon and cloves—add warmth and depth. The combination of raisins and nuts provides texture and little bursts of sweetness and crunch in every bite.
Creaming the sugar and shortening ensures the cookies have a light and fluffy texture, while the addition of baking soda gives them just the right rise. The dough is easy to work with, making it a great recipe for bakers of all skill levels. These cookies bake up beautifully with golden edges and soft, chewy centers, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Preparation Tips
- Use unsweetened applesauce for the best balance of sweetness and moisture.
- Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to the batter to make them plump and juicy.
- Sift the dry ingredients to evenly distribute the spices and baking soda, ensuring the cookies bake evenly.
- Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to prevent breaking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness for up to 5 days.
Recommended Kitchen Products
The links below lead to top-rated products on Amazon—if you use our links, we can save more recipes.
- Mixing bowls: Perfect for creaming the shortening and sugar, and for mixing the batter evenly.
- Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
- Baking sheets: Heavy-duty baking sheets help prevent burnt bottoms.
- Parchment paper: Keeps cookies from sticking to the sheet and makes cleanup easier.
- Wire cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool completely and maintain their texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a comforting snack.
- Add a drizzle of vanilla glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Serve alongside other spiced desserts like gingerbread for a holiday dessert platter.
- Pair with hot apple cider for a cozy autumn treat.
- Include them in a cookie gift box for the holidays or special occasions.
A Classic Treat That Brings Comfort
Applesauce cookies are a simple yet flavorful dessert that feels like a warm hug. With their soft texture, aromatic spices, and bursts of raisins and nuts, these cookies are a timeless recipe perfect for any season. Whether you’re baking for your family or sharing with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Applesauce Cookies
Applesauce Cookies
Soft, spiced cookies made with applesauce, warm spices, raisins, and nuts. Perfect for cozy afternoons or holiday baking sessions.
Ingredients
- ½ cup shortening
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ½ cup nuts
- 1 cup raisins
Instructions
- Cream the sugar and shortening together until light and fluffy.
- Add the applesauce, which has been mixed with the baking soda. Stir until combined.
- Sift the salt, flour, and spices into the mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Add the raisins and nuts, folding them in gently.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake slowly at 325°F for 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the cookies are lightly golden.