If you are seeking a delightful treat that effortlessly combines the crisp sweetness of apples with rich, buttery caramel, this Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cookies bring together tender, cinnamon-spiced dough dotted with juicy apple bits and melty caramel, creating a perfect bite that feels like fall in every mouthful. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon snack or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to warm hearts and spark smiles with their homey charm and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in making these cookies a delicious success. From the spices to the apples and caramel, every element adds depth, texture, and a burst of flavor.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and a tender crumb to the cookies.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Provides sweetness and helps with the cookie’s texture.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Gives a deep, molasses-like flavor and a moist chewiness.
- Large egg (1): Binds the dough together and contributes moisture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, fragrant note.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Forms the base of the dough, giving structure.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise and spread slightly.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a little extra lift and fluffiness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings warm, comforting spice perfect with apples.
- Finely chopped apple (1 cup, such as Granny Smith): Adds natural freshness and moisture.
- Caramel bits (1/2 cup) or melted caramel sauce: Gives luscious pockets of gooey caramel sweetness.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make sure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, which makes cleanup much easier.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies a tender texture. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue beating until fully combined for that luscious base flavor.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. These dry ingredients work together to give your cookies structure, rise, and a touch of aromatic spice, making every bite flavorful and balanced.
Step 4: Mix Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined—overmixing can make cookies tough, so keep it light. Then fold in the finely chopped apples and caramel bits. These add juicy sweetness and bursts of melty caramel in every bite. If you’re using caramel sauce instead of bits, hold onto it for drizzling later.
Step 5: Bake Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread without merging. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn a gorgeous golden color and the centers have set but remain soft and chewy, giving that perfect texture contrast.
Step 6: Cool and Add Caramel Drizzle
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you opted to use melted caramel sauce instead of bits, now is the perfect time to drizzle it over the cooled cookies for that extra touch of decadence and eye-catching appeal.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel drizzle to bring out the buttery sweetness and add a bit of sophisticated flair. A light dusting of powdered sugar also works beautifully for a touch of elegance and visual delight.
Side Dishes
Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of cinnamon-spiced tea, classic black coffee, or even a cold glass of milk to balance that sweet richness. Their comforting flavors also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert upgrade.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra caramel sauce and apple slices for a charming shareable dessert platter. Wrapping a few cookies in parchment and tying with twine makes an ideal thoughtful gift for friends or family during the holiday season.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once fully cooled, store your Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They remain soft and chewy for up to four days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to two months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature, and they’ll taste almost freshly baked.
Reheating
For that freshly baked warmth, gently reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This re-softens the insides and brings the caramel back to melty perfection.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for their tartness and firm texture, you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples depending on your sweet or tangy preference. Just make sure they’re finely chopped to blend well in the dough.
Do I have to use caramel bits, or can I only use caramel sauce?
Either works beautifully. Caramel bits melt into little pockets of gooey sweetness inside the cookie, while drizzling melted caramel sauce after baking adds a lovely glossy finish. You could also combine both for extra indulgence.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make this Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will remain just as delicious.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is properly softened but not melted, and chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking if needed. This helps the cookies hold their shape and ensures a perfect chewy texture without too much spread.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add delightful crunch and complement the apple and caramel flavors wonderfully. Just fold them in along with the apples and caramel bits in step 4 for an extra dimension of texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade cookies that combine seasonal flavors in such a deliciously simple way. This Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe is one of those treats that feels both comforting and a little indulgent, perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. So grab those apples and caramel, and treat yourself to a batch of these cozy delights—you won’t regret it!
Print
Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully soft and chewy Caramel Apple Cookies combine the warmth of cinnamon-spiced apples with luscious caramel bits, baked to golden perfection for a sweet treat that’s perfect for fall or any time you crave a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix-ins and Toppings
- 1 cup finely chopped apple (such as Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup caramel bits (or melted caramel sauce for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing carefully until just combined to avoid overmixing. Fold in the finely chopped apples and caramel bits carefully to disperse them evenly through the dough. Save the melted caramel sauce if using for a drizzle later.
- Bake Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookie edges turn golden and the centers are set but still soft.
- Cool and Add Caramel Drizzle: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for several minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, drizzle melted caramel sauce over the cooled cookies to add an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of caramel.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender and chewy.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you prefer thicker cookies.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the caramel drizzle before it sets.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
