Description
These delightful Caramel Apple Cookies combine the sweet and tart flavors of finely chopped apples with the rich, buttery caramel for a perfect fall treat. Soft, chewy, and packed with cinnamon-spiced goodness, these cookies are easy to make and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Add-ins
- 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). 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, add the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fully combined.
- 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 incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Fold in the finely chopped apples and caramel bits gently to evenly distribute them without breaking the pieces down.
- Bake Cookies: Using a tablespoon scoop, drop portions of dough about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. 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: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If using melted caramel sauce instead of bits, drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast, but other firm apples can also work.
- Make sure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
- The caramel sauce drizzle is optional but adds a nice finishing touch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
