Picture this: the delightful crunch of potato sticks mingling with sweet caramel, evoking the warmth of holiday gatherings. While preparing for Hanukkah, I wanted to create something that would surprise my family and friends. That’s when inspiration struck—a delightful mashup of two beloved treats: latkes and cookies! These Latke-Inspired Cookies bring a unique twist to traditional flavors, transforming the savory into something scrumptiously sweet.
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these tasty wonders that are as comforting as they are innovative. With a chewy center and a luscious apple caramel drizzle, they’ll dazzle your taste buds and charm anyone missing the typical holiday sweets. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, these cookies strike the perfect balance between festive nostalgia and modern indulgence. Join me in celebrating this joyous season with a cookie that honors tradition while offering a delightful new experience!
Why You’ll Crave These Latke Cookies?
Innovation: These Latke Cookies transform traditional flavors into a decadent dessert, offering an exciting alternative for your holiday gatherings.
Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can effortlessly create a batch that impresses and satisfies.
Perfect balance: The sweet apple caramel drizzle harmonizes with the salty crunch of potato sticks, delivering an irresistible taste experience.
Versatile: These cookies are perfect for sharing at festive events or enjoying with a warm cup of tea on a cozy evening.
Crowd-pleaser: Friends and family alike will be enchanted by this creative spin, making them a hit at any celebration.
Latke Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour (270 g) – The backbone of your cookies, providing structure; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
• Unsalted Butter (1 cup) – Enhances flavor and richness; ensure it’s cold for the best texture.
• Granulated Sugar (100 g) – Sweetens the dough; can be swapped with brown sugar for a richer taste.
• Powdered Sugar (65 g) – Gives cookies a smoother finish; no direct substitutes recommended.
• Kosher Salt (1 tsp) – Balances out the sweetness; if unavailable, regular salt will do, but adjust to taste.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/4 tsp) – Adds warmth; omit if you prefer a more neutral flavor.
• Vanilla Extract (1.5 tsp) – Enhances the overall taste; switch to almond extract for a different profile.
• Potato Sticks (2.5 cups) – Provide that signature crunch reminiscent of latkes; substitute with crushed potato chips if needed.
For the Apple Caramel Drizzle
• Apple Cider – Introduces moisture and authentic apple flavor; apple juice can be used as a substitute.
• Light Brown Sugar (215 g) – Offers deep sweetness; white sugar can replace it for less richness.
• Heavy Cream (3/4 cup) – Adds richness to the caramel; for a dairy-free option, use coconut cream.
• Unsalted Butter (5 Tbsp) – Enhances the caramel flavor; vegan butter can be utilized for a plant-based version.
• Kosher Salt (1/4 tsp) – Perfectly balances the sweetness of the caramel; regular salt works too but adjust your taste preference.
How to Make Latke Cookies
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Prepare Caramel: In a saucepan, heat the apple cider and light brown sugar over medium heat, stirring until the mixture thickens into a gooey caramel sauce. Add butter, heavy cream, kosher salt, and cinnamon, mixing well; then let cool until thickened.
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Make Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold cubed butter with granulated sugar and powdered sugar. Beat together until the mixture becomes fluffy and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon. Next, incorporate the potato sticks into the dough until just combined—it should have a slightly chunky texture.
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Chill Dough: Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
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Form Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out dough and shape it into balls, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring space is left between each ball for spreading.
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Bake: Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.
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Cool & Drizzle: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Drizzle the cooled apple caramel sauce generously over the cookies before serving.
Optional: Dust with extra powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Latke Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep these delicious Latke Cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and delightful texture.
Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life a bit more, store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just allow them to return to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months!
Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm again, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
Latke Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful Latke Cookies with these tempting twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously inclusive treat.
- Nutty Addition: Add in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to enhance texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a surprising heat.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Fold extra ground cinnamon into the dough for a more pronounced spice profile.
- Fruit Twist: Include 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins to balance the sweetness in the cookie.
- Vegan Friendly: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and butter with vegan butter for a plant-based version.
- Choco-Chip Delight: Fold in a handful of mini chocolate chips for a decadent sweetness in every bite.
- Maple Drizzle: Swap out apple caramel for a maple syrup drizzle for an irresistibly unique flavor pairing.
With these variations, every batch of your Latke Cookies can be a delightful new experience!
Expert Tips for Latke Cookies
- Cold Butter: Ensure your butter is cold when making the cookie dough; this helps create a flaky texture and prevents spreading.
- Don’t Overmix: When incorporating potato sticks, mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired chewy texture.
- Perfect Baking Time: Bake until edges are golden brown for optimal texture; they will firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking.
- Caramel Consistency: Let the caramel cool before drizzling; this ensures it adheres well to the cookies and enhances the flavor.
- Creative Twists: Feel free to add grated apple to the dough for an extra zing; it harmonizes beautifully with the salty crunch of the potato sticks.
Make Ahead Options
These Latke Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your holiday baking a breeze! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The apple caramel drizzle can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat it gently before drizzling to restore its luscious consistency. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough directly onto a baking sheet and follow the baking instructions, ensuring you enjoy fresh, warm Latke Cookies with minimal effort. This time-saving strategy lets you savor the festivities without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Latke Cookies?
Picture the delightful crunch of a latke-inspired cookie paired with tantalizing sides that elevate your festive experience.
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Warm Applesauce: Serve this classic accompaniment to enhance the sweet and salty notes of the cookies. The smooth texture complements the cookie’s crunch perfectly.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a dreamy contrast to the warm cookies. The cold creaminess balances the chewy, apple-laden delight wonderfully.
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Spiced Chai Tea: Brew up some spiced chai to infuse warmth and coziness. The aromatic flavors enhance the sweet caramel drizzle and create a comforting experience.
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Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a rich dark chocolate drizzle over your cookies. The bittersweet chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet caramel and crunch.
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Candied Pecans: Sprinkle some candied pecans on the side for added crunch and nutty sweetness. They echo the flavors of the cookies while providing an exciting textural contrast.
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Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Top your cookies with a dollop of cinnamon whipped cream for an indulgent finish. This luscious addition harmonizes perfectly with their warm spices.
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Sparkling Cider: A glass of sparkling cider elevates the festive atmosphere, offering a refreshing sip that cleanses the palate between bites of the cookies.
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Churros: Consider serving churros for a delightful dessert buffet, allowing guests to indulge in a variety of sweet treats that complement the scent of cinnamon in the cookies.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brightens up the table and adds a fresh element. Consider apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds for a pop of holiday color and flavor.
Latke Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for potato sticks?
Absolutely! When selecting potatoes for your Latke Cookies, opt for starchy varieties like Russet or Idaho potatoes. They hold up well and provide the right texture. Look for potatoes that are smooth and firm without dark spots or blemishes—these are indicators of freshness.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! To keep your Latke Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come back to room temperature before enjoying again!
Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Latke Cookies, first, let them cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months! When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or oven for that freshly baked taste.
What if my caramel sauce is too thin?
If your caramel sauce ends up too thin, don’t worry! Simply return it to the saucepan and cook it over medium heat for an additional few minutes, stirring frequently. This will help it thicken. Remember to remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches your desired consistency to prevent burning.
Are these cookies safe for everyone, including those with allergies?
Great question! These Latke Cookies contain allergens like dairy (butter and cream) and gluten (flour). If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using alternatives such as vegan butter and coconut cream for a dairy-free version or a gluten-free flour blend. Always double-check with guests to ensure they’re comfortable with the ingredients!
Latke Cookies with Apple Caramel Drizzle You’ll Love to Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, heat the apple cider and light brown sugar over medium heat, stirring until thickened into a gooey caramel sauce. Add butter, heavy cream, kosher salt, and cinnamon, mixing well; let cool until thickened.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold cubed butter with granulated sugar and powdered sugar. Beat until fluffy and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gently fold in all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon. Incorporate potato sticks until just combined—it should have a slightly chunky texture.
- Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out dough and shape into balls, placing them on a lined baking sheet, ensuring space between each for spreading.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until edges are golden brown; centers may look soft but will firm up as they cool.
- Allow cookies to cool for a few minutes. Drizzle cooled apple caramel sauce generously over the cookies before serving.