Soft Apple-Spice Cookies

Step 1

Cookies: Heat oven to 375 F. Line 3 large cookie sheets with parchment. Grate 1 apple on large holes of box grater. Chop remaining apple.

Step 2

In a small bowl, whisk flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cloves, and nutmeg. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time until well blended. Beat in flour mixture just until blended (dough will be thick). Stir in apples, cherries and walnuts.

Step 3

Drop dough by heaping tablespoons. onto prepared cookie sheets, 2-inches apart. Bake 10-12 minutes, until tops spring back when pressed. Transfer cookies to wire rack to cool.

Step 4

Frosting: In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Boil for 2 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat; stir in vanilla. Let mixture cool about 2 minutes. Stir in confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Spread frosting in the center of the cooled cookies. Reheat frosting over low heat, if necessary, to keep it a smooth, spreadable consistency. Sprinkle with walnuts. Let stand until frosting sets.