Okay friends, let me tell you about these.Caramel Apple cookies are delicious.. They’re not just cookies; they’re like a warm hug on a chilly autumn day, distilled into deliciousness. Remember those caramel apples you’d get at the fall festival as a kid? These cookies capture that exact feeling, but in a soft, chewy, melt-in-your-mouth kind of way. They’re way easier to eat than a whole caramel apple too, let me tell you! If you’re a fan of the classic oatmeal raisin cookie but are looking for something with a little more *oomph*, something a bit more decadent and seasonal, then buckle up because these are about to become your new go-to. My grandma used to make something similar, but honestly, I think I’ve finally perfected it (don’t tell her I said that!).
What are Caramel Apple Cookies?
These Caramel Apple cookies are great for are essentially a soft, chewy sugar cookie base, studded with chunks of sweet apples and swirled with ribbons of rich, homemade caramel. Think of it as the best parts of an apple pie and a caramel apple got together and had a baby – a seriously delicious, irresistible baby. The dough itself is super simple to whip up, and the homemade caramel, while it might sound intimidating, is actually surprisingly easy to make. It’s essentially sugar, butter, and cream cooked together until golden and gooey. And the apples? Well, they bring that crisp, slightly tart balance that cuts through all the sweetness perfectly. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that’ll have you reaching for another before you even finish the first.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to love animals?What are caramel apple cookies?, but let me narrow it down to a few of my absolute favorites. First, the flavor. Seriously, the combination of sweet caramel, tart apples, and warm spices is just heavenly. It’s like autumn exploded in your mouth, in the best possible way. Then there’s the simplicity. Don’t let the homemade caramel scare you off; this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. I’ve streamlined the process so that even beginner bakers can nail it. What I love most is that this recipe is also so cost-effective. Apples are in season, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. You don’t have to break the bank to bake up a batch of these beauties. These are also incredibly versatile. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, pack them in lunches, or bring them to a fall potluck – they’re always a hit! I’ve even crumbled them over yogurt for a ridiculously good breakfast. These definitely remind me a bit of those amazing Apple Pie Bars I made last year, but they are easier to pack! If you like them, you need to try both!
How do you make caramel apple cookies?
Quick Overview
Making these Caramel apple cookies: What areIs it easier than you think? How do you make a quick Caramel Sauce? Dice up some apples, layer everything together, bake until golden, and drizzle with extra caramel. I know that sounds like a lot of steps, but trust me, each one is straightforward, and the results are so good. What is the best way to make a cookie soft and chewy? What makes these cookies so special?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – Make sure it’s *actually* soft, not melted! This is crucial for creaming properly.
* ¾ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
* ¾ cup packed light Brown Sugar – For that extra chewy texture and molasses-y flavor.
* 2 large eggs – Use room temperature eggs for best results.
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Pure vanilla extract is always best, but imitation will work in a pinch.
* 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level your flour to avoid adding too much.
* 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and spread.
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Warm spice that complements the apples and caramel.
* ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
For the Filling:
* 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) – I prefer Granny Smith for their tartness, but Honeycrisp works well too.
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Prevents the apples from browning and adds a touch of brightness.
* ½ cup Caramel Sauce (recipe follows) – Homemade is best, but store-bought works too, just make sure it’s a good quality one.
For the Glaze:
* 1 cup powdered sugar – For a smooth, sweet glaze. * 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream – Add gradually until you reach your desired consistency. * 12 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the glaze.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. How do I clean cookies? I always preheat my oven for 15 minutes to make sure it’s evenly heated.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside. How do you whisk baking soda and spices? Don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and Brown Sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. What is the best way to do this with an electric mixer? Add the eggs, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure your butter is truly softened, but not melted. If it’s too cold, it won’t cream properly. If your cookie is too melted, it will spread too much.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix! Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, which can result in tough cookies. I usually stop mixing when there are still a few streaks of flour visible and then finish mixing again. How do I incorporate it by hand?
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice. This prevents them from browning and adds a nice tang. If you’re using store-bought caramel sauce, warm it in the microwave to make it easier to cook.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Drop rounded tablespoons of Cookie Dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Flatten the cookies slightly with the back of a spoon. Top each cookie with some of the diced apples and drizzle with caramel sauce. Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the caramel into the dough. Don’t overdo the swirling, or you’ll lose the distinct caramel ribbons.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. What are the best ways to keep a close eye on your ovens baking times? The cookies should still be slightly soft in the center. I always set a timer for the minimum baking time and then check them frequently.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to the wire rack. To cool completely. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk or butter. What is the best way to make a smooth cream with vanilla extract? Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Once the glaze is set, slice or break the cookies apart and serve. What are the best foods to eat warm or at room temperature? I love to serve them with Ice Cream or a glass of cold milk.
What should I serve it with?
These Caramel apple cookies are aAren’t they great on their own? What are some healthy breakfast ideas? Try crumbling them over a bowl of Greek yogurt with honey. Is this a deconstructed apple pie parfait? For brunch, arrange them on a pretty platter with other baked goods, like scones and muffins, and serve them with ice cream. Serve with mimosas or sparkling cider. As a dessert, warm them slightly in the microwave and serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle them with extra caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped pecans. For cozy snacks, enjoy them with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or APPLE CIDER. What are some great picnic bags to pack in your lunchbox? My family loves to enjoy these after a fall hike!
How do I make caramel apple cookies?
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks for making these.Caramel Apple Cookies: How can absolutely perfect. First, moisture is important to consider for apples! Gently pat the diced apples dry with a paper towel before adding them to the cookie dough. This will prevent the cookies from becoming soggy. Overmixing makes things tough so be careful! Don’t overmix the cookie dough, or the cookies will be tough. Mix until just combined. For swirl customization, use a toothpick or knife to create your own unique swirl patterns in the caramel. Get creative! If you’re feeling a little adventurous, feel free to swap out the Granny Smith apples for other varieties, like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. Or, add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the cookie dough. For my vegan friends out there, I’ve found that applesauce works great as an egg substitute in this recipe (use ¼ cup of applesauce per egg). If you like your cookies extra chewy, try adding a tablespoon of molasses to the cookie dough. As far as glaze variations go, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, spicy flavor. A little bit of bourbon in the glaze also adds a nice kick! This one is just for adults, of course!
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
To keep your Caramel apple cookies are delicious. fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before serving, as they tend to harden up a bit in the fridge. For freezer storage, wrap the cookies individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature. I usually glaze mine after thawing to keep them looking their best, because the glaze sometimes gets weird in the freezer.
What are some frequently asked questions?
Final Thoughts
These caramel apple cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re a little slice of autumn that you can enjoy any time of year. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something sweet, these cookies are the perfect choice. If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my pumpkin spice cookies or my apple cinnamon muffins! Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think and don’t forget to rate this recipe. I would love to hear about any variations you tried!
Caramel Apple Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped apples
- 1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in apples and caramel candies.
- Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
