Caramel apple cookies combine the delightful flavors of fall in a chewy, sweet treat. These cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of coffee. With the warmth of spices and the richness of caramel, they are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups diced apple (peeled)
- 1 cup caramel bits
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the diced apples and caramel bits until evenly distributed.
- Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 30-32 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
Variations
- Add Nuts: For extra texture, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Different Apples: Use your favorite variety of apple for different flavors; tart apples like Granny Smith can add a nice contrast.
- Spice Adjustments: Experiment with additional spices, such as ginger or allspice, for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, microwave for a few seconds or reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or another sugar of your choice, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. - What kind of apples work best?
Firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are great for baking due to their texture and flavor. - Can I make these cookies without caramel bits?
Yes, you can omit the caramel bits or replace them with chocolate chips for a different flavor. - Is it necessary to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough is not necessary, but it can help prevent spreading and enhance flavors. - How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center; they will continue to set as they cool. - Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend; however, the texture may vary. - What can I use instead of butter?
For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. - How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough. - Can I add more caramel bits?
Absolutely! Adjust to your taste, but keep in mind that too much caramel can make the dough overly sticky. - Can I use this recipe to make a cake?
While the ingredients can work for a cake, adjustments in baking time and pan size will be necessary.
Conclusion
Caramel apple cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of autumn in a sweet and chewy treat. With their blend of spices, apple chunks, and creamy caramel, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whip up a batch today and savor the deliciousness!
PrintCaramel Apple Cookies
- Total Time: 32 minutes
Description
Enjoy the delightful flavors of fall with these soft and chewy Caramel Apple Cookies, packed with diced apples and sweet caramel bits.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups diced apple (peeled)
- 1 cup caramel bits
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
- Stir in the diced apples and caramel bits until evenly distributed.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
- For added texture, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes