There is something truly magical about the combination of sweet, tart apples with rich, gooey caramel and hearty oatmeal that makes caramel apple oatmeal cookies an irresistible treat. These cookies bring together the best flavors of autumn in every bite, delivering a perfect balance of chewy texture, warm spices, and luscious caramel notes.
Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth with something a little different, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Not only are these cookies delicious, but they’re also easy to make and perfect for sharing. The addition of fresh apples and chunks of caramel candies gives these oatmeal cookies a delightful twist that elevates them beyond the ordinary.
Plus, they fill your home with an inviting aroma that’s as comforting as a brisk fall day. Get ready to bake a batch and enjoy these mouthwatering caramel apple oatmeal cookies that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Caramel apple oatmeal cookies combine the chewy goodness of oats with the fresh crispness of apples and the indulgent sweetness of caramel. This recipe is:
- Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can achieve delicious results.
- Perfectly balanced: The natural tartness of apples complements the sweet caramel, while warm cinnamon and nutmeg add a cozy spice.
- Versatile: Great for lunchboxes, afternoon snacks, or a festive dessert during the fall season.
- Texturally delightful: Soft and chewy with bits of tender apple and melted caramel pockets.
These cookies also offer a fantastic way to sneak in some fruit while still indulging your sweet tooth. Plus, the recipe is easy to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor and crunch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 3 cups (270g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced apples (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith)
- 1 cup caramel candies, chopped into small pieces
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack
- Knife and cutting board (for dicing apples and chopping caramel)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare the apples: Peel and dice your apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Mix dry ingredients into wet: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
- Stir in oats, apples, and caramel: Fold in the rolled oats, diced apples, chopped caramel pieces, and nuts if using. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
- Form the cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and centers look set but still soft.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy! Serve the cookies once cooled or store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Tips & Variations
“For best results, use fresh, crisp apples and chop caramel candies finely to prevent large gooey clumps that might cause spreading.”
- Apple variety matters: Choose tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to balance the sweetness of the caramel.
- Caramel alternatives: Try caramel bits or even drizzle caramel sauce on top after baking for extra indulgence.
- Make it vegan: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) instead of regular eggs.
- Add spices: Enhance the flavor by adding 1/4 tsp ground cloves or ginger to the dry ingredients.
- Mix-ins: Feel free to add raisins, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut for more texture and flavor.
- Storage tip: Keep cookies fresh by storing with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Cookie (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Sugars | 15 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
Serving Suggestions
These caramel apple oatmeal cookies are perfect to enjoy with a warm beverage. Pair them with a cup of hot apple cider, chai tea, or your favorite coffee for a cozy treat.
They also make a lovely dessert option when served alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
For a festive touch, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the cookies before baking to bring out the caramel’s flavor. You can also sandwich two cookies with cream cheese frosting or caramel sauce for an impressive dessert that’s sure to wow guests.
These cookies travel well too, making them ideal for picnics, lunchboxes, or as thoughtful homemade gifts during the holiday season.
Conclusion
Caramel apple oatmeal cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall year-round. This recipe offers an easy and approachable way to bake a batch of soft, chewy cookies bursting with the natural sweetness of apples and the indulgent richness of caramel.
With warm spices and hearty oats, these cookies provide a satisfying texture and comforting taste that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe provides clear steps and tips to ensure success. Don’t forget to experiment with variations to make it your own!
For more delicious and wholesome recipes, check out other favorites like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals, and Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.
Happy baking and enjoy every delicious bite of your caramel apple oatmeal cookies!
📖 Recipe Card: Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookies
Description: Deliciously chewy oatmeal cookies loaded with sweet caramel and fresh apple chunks. Perfect for a cozy treat any time of the year.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT12M
Total Time: PT27M
Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup peeled and diced apple
- 1 cup caramel bits or chopped soft caramel candies
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
- Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture.
- Stir in oats, diced apple, and caramel bits.
- Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Cool on wire racks before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 25 g
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