Creating these delicious Apple Slice Cookies is simple and enjoyable! Just follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples, nuts, and raisins if using, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
7. Scoop Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop generous portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

With these straightforward instructions, you’ll have a batch of Apple Slice Cookies ready to enjoy in no time!