6 (.74 ounce) packets Alpine Spiced Apple Cider Original Instant Drink Mix, or similar
3 teaspoons cinnamon, divided
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/4 cup sugar, divided
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
24–48 caramel squares
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a medium bowl mix flour, apple cider mix packets, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, baking soda, cream of tartar and salt.
Using an electric mixer cream butter and 1 cup sugar.
Add eggs on at a time.
Stir in vanilla extract.
Gradually stir in flour mixture until combined.
In a small shallow bowl mix remaining 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
Shape dough into 2 tablespoon size balls. Flatten slightly and add a caramel in the center. Roll dough around caramel to form a ball.
Roll ball in cinnamon sugar mixture and place on baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool on baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For smaller cookiers, cut caramels in half and roll 1 tablespoon size balls. Flatten slightly and place caramel in the center of dough. Wrap dough around caramel and place on baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes.