• Preparation of Browned Butter: Begin by melting the butter in a medium frying pan over medium heat. Continue heating until the milk solids separate and acquire an amber color. Transfer the butter to a separate container, reserving 1 cup for the cookie dough and 2 tablespoons for the apple cider butter. Allow to cool completely.
• Reduction of Apple Cider: Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan and place over medium heat. Allow the cider to simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until it reduces to ¼ cup. Set aside to cool.
• Sifting Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Sift together to ensure even distribution and set aside.
• Combining Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled browned butter, reduced apple cider, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, egg, and apple sauce until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
• Forming the Cookie Dough: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula, mixing until just combined to form a cohesive dough. Avoid over-mixing to ensure the cookies maintain a tender texture.
• Preheating and Preparing Baking Sheets: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
• Shaping the Cookies: Using a large cookie scoop, portion the dough into balls and arrange them on the prepared cookie sheets, allowing space for slight spreading.
• Baking: Place one tray in the oven and bake for 13-15 minutes or until the cookies are just set. Repeat with the remaining tray. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a cooling rack before assembling.

Assembly of Apple Cider Cookies:

• Preparing Apple Cider Butter: In a small bowl, combine the reserved brown butter and tablespoon of apple cider. If the mixture has solidified, gently warm in the microwave for 10 seconds until liquid.
• Preparing Cinnamon Sugar: In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
• Coating the Cookies: Use a pastry brush to apply the apple cider butter to each cookie, then immediately dredge the buttered cookie in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring generous coverage.
• Glazing: Prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and apple cider in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cookies, allowing it to set before serving.