by Stacey Abell
Fall is officially upon us, bringing with it the flavors of the season. For me, autumn conjures up memories of brisk days, falling leaves, and a visit to the local apple orchard. This first recipe is a sweet and creamy dip to throw together anytime you find yourself with a surplus of crisp snacking apples.
Easy Apple Dip
8-ounce block of cream cheese, softened
¾ cup brown sugar
¼ cup white sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
Mix all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl until well combined. Serve with sliced apples or pears, graham crackers, or gingersnaps. Any leftover dip can be refrigerated; bring to room temperature before serving.
This recipe for Apple Pie Cookies comes to us from Amanda Stevenson-Cosgrove of Burlington.
She writes, “Let’s be honest, in a season where pumpkin spice rules all, the apple is the unsung hero of autumn. Pies, donuts, and slushies – with apples, the possibilities are endless! These cookies are a delicious way to kickstart fall baking in an unexpected way.”
Apple Pie Cookies
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cinnamon (or 3 tablespoons apple butter)
2 cups finely diced apples (peeled & cored)
Frosting
3 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (or 3 tablespoons apple butter)
Cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the eggs and vanilla until well-combined. Add the flour, soda, salt, and cinnamon; mix well. Stir in the apples. Drop by rounded tablespoons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until light golden brown; cool completely.
Make the frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Stir in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon and beat until light and fluffy.
Spread frosting over the cooled cookies.
Do you have a tried-and-true family favorite dish? Or maybe a recipe that has a special meaning to you? Send us your recipe along with some information about its history or significance to you or your family. Please include your full name and city of residence. Email your submissions to burlingtonbeacon@gmail.com with “In The Kitchen” in the subject line.