Caramel Apple Cookies are the ultimate fusion of two beloved treats: the classic caramel apple and a soft, chewy cookie. Each bite bursts with juicy apple pieces, warm cinnamon, and gooey pockets of caramel, making these cookies an irresistible dessert for fall or any time you crave a cozy, nostalgic flavor. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing, you’ll absolutely fall in love with these delightful Caramel Apple Cookies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Caramel Apple Cookies come together with simple pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in building flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color that makes these cookies so inviting.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Ensures a rich, chewy texture and helps the cookies brown perfectly.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds deep caramel notes and moisture for an irresistibly soft crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Contributes sweetness and helps the cookies spread just right.
- Large egg (1): Binds the dough and gives the cookies structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the warm, comforting flavors in every bite.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides the foundation for a tender, yet sturdy cookie.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Gives the cookies a gentle lift for a soft, pillowy result.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Lends that classic autumn spice and pairs beautifully with apples.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and brings all the flavors together.
- Finely diced peeled apple (1 cup, such as Granny Smith): Adds juicy bursts and a hint of tartness for perfect contrast.
- Soft caramel bits or chopped soft caramels (1/2 cup): Melts into gooey pockets, creating those signature Caramel Apple Cookies moments.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), then line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your Caramel Apple Cookies bake evenly and lift off easily, plus it saves you from any sticky caramel clean-up!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step adds air to the dough, setting the stage for soft, chewy cookies with a rich caramel flavor.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The egg helps bind everything together, while the vanilla infuses a warm, inviting aroma that will have your kitchen smelling like a bakery.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. This gentle approach keeps the cookies tender and prevents overmixing.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Caramels
Gently fold in the diced apples and caramel bits. The apples bring a fresh, juicy flavor while the caramel melts into dreamy, gooey pockets throughout your Caramel Apple Cookies.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for a little spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are golden and the centers are just set. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cookies
Garnishes
For a bakery-style finish, drizzle your Caramel Apple Cookies with a little extra melted caramel or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Both options take these cookies from delicious to downright irresistible, adding that extra pop of flavor and a beautiful finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Pair your Caramel Apple Cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert duo, or serve them alongside a mug of spiced apple cider or hot chocolate for cozy autumn vibes. They also make a charming addition to any cookie platter or afternoon tea spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Caramel Apple Cookies into a show-stopping dessert by stacking them and tying with a ribbon for a homemade gift, or sandwiching vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a fun ice cream sandwich. For parties, arrange them in mini cupcake liners or pile high on a rustic cake stand for an inviting centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your Caramel Apple Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to stay fresh even longer, pop them in the fridge, where they’ll keep beautifully for up to a week.
Freezing
These cookies freeze like a dream! Place cooled Caramel Apple Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for a quick treat anytime.
Reheating
If you love warm cookies (and who doesn’t?), simply pop your Caramel Apple Cookies in a microwave for 10–15 seconds. This brings back that gooey caramel magic and makes them taste freshly baked every time.
FAQs
What kind of apples work best for Caramel Apple Cookies?
Granny Smith apples are fantastic for this recipe because their tartness balances the sweetness of the caramel, but feel free to use any firm, slightly tart apple you love. Just be sure to peel and finely dice for the best texture.
Can I use homemade caramel instead of caramel bits?
Store-bought soft caramel bits are best for these cookies because they hold their shape and melt just enough, but you can use chopped soft caramels. Homemade caramel tends to be too runny and may cause the cookies to spread too much.
How do I keep the cookies from getting soggy?
Make sure to pat your diced apples dry with a paper towel before folding them into the dough. Excess moisture from the apples can make the cookies soft or soggy over time.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to soften slightly for easy scooping.
Are Caramel Apple Cookies suitable for gifting?
Definitely! Package them in a cute tin or cellophane bag tied with ribbon for an unforgettable homemade gift. They travel well and make a thoughtful treat for teachers, neighbors, or holiday gatherings.
Final Thoughts
These Caramel Apple Cookies are like a warm hug in cookie form—chewy, gooey, and full of fall flavor. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, I can’t recommend them enough. Give them a try and let your kitchen fill with the sweet, spiced aroma of pure joy!
Print
Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful Caramel Apple Cookies combine the tartness of Granny Smith apples with the rich sweetness of soft caramel bits. These chewy, flavorful cookies are perfect for autumn baking and offer a comforting dessert option with a blend of warm cinnamon and vanilla.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Fillings
- 1 cup finely diced peeled apple (such as Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup soft caramel bits or chopped soft caramels
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet butter mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure cookies stay tender.
- Fold in Apples and Caramel: Gently fold in the finely diced apples and soft caramel bits to evenly distribute throughout the dough.
- Scoop Dough: Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes or until the edges turn golden and the centers are set but soft.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use soft caramel baking bits to prevent the cookies from sticking and spreading excessively.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- For a more intense apple flavor, use tart apples like Granny Smith.
- Do not overmix the dough to maintain cookie tenderness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
