Name: Caramel Apple Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-482656H52M6S
Total time: PT-482656H52M6S
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup caramel bits; 1 cup chopped apple

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Nothing says fall like the delightful combination of sweet caramel and crisp apple. Caramel Apple Cookies are the perfect treat for those crisp autumn days, or any time you’re craving a warm, chewy cookie with a burst of fruity sweetness. These cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with both the rich flavors of caramel and the tartness of fresh apples. With just a handful of ingredients, you can make this delicious treat in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in something comforting, these Caramel Apple Cookies are a must-try.

The best part about these cookies is their versatility. The caramel bits melt into the dough, creating pockets of gooey sweetness, while the apple pieces add a juicy bite and a subtle tartness that balances the richness of the caramel. This recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Caramel Apple Cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Irresistible Flavor Combination

The marriage of caramel and apple creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making these cookies a crowd-pleaser.

2. Quick and Easy

With only 25-27 minutes from start to finish, you can bake a batch of delicious cookies in no time.

3. Soft and Chewy Texture

These cookies have the perfect chewy texture with gooey caramel bits and tender apple pieces in every bite.

4. Perfect for Fall and Holidays

The warm, comforting flavors of caramel and apple make these cookies ideal for fall, but they are delicious all year round.

5. Great for Sharing

These cookies are perfect for bake sales, holiday parties, or simply sharing with friends and family. They’re sure to disappear quickly!

Ingredients

Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
All-purpose flour
Caramel bits
Chopped apple

Variations

Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm, spicy twist that complements the apple and caramel flavors.
Nuts: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Dried Fruit: Replace fresh apples with dried apples or other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.
Glaze: Drizzle a simple caramel or vanilla glaze over the cooled cookies for extra sweetness and a polished look.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Together Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the baking soda, baking powder, salt, and flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until well incorporated.

Step 5: Add Caramel and Apple

Gently fold in the caramel bits and chopped apple, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies maintain their shape and prevent spreading too much.
Even Apple Pieces: Chop the apple into small, even pieces so that each cookie gets a nice balance of fruit.
Check for Doneness: Since ovens vary, check the cookies at 10 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, but the centers may still appear slightly soft—this is okay, as they will firm up as they cool.
Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh apples that are crisp and not overly ripe. Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice due to their tartness.

How to Serve

These Caramel Apple Cookies are delicious on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee. They make a great addition to holiday cookie trays or dessert buffets. Serve them at parties or family gatherings, or enjoy them as a comforting snack during cooler months.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay soft and fresh for several days if stored properly.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough to bake later. Roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, just place them on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time.

Reheating

If you have leftover cookies and want to enjoy them warm, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds to soften the caramel and enhance the flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes! You can use any variety of apple you like, but tart apples like Granny Smith work best for balancing the sweetness of the caramel.

2. How can I make the cookies more chewy?

For a chewier texture, try adding a bit more brown sugar or chilling the dough before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.

3. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough in dough balls or as a log wrapped in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it thaw slightly and bake as usual.

4. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, if you’re using salted butter, omit the salt from the recipe to prevent the cookies from being too salty.

5. How do I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.

6. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.

7. How do I prevent the caramel from hardening?

Make sure to use caramel bits designed for baking, as they are meant to stay soft. If using regular caramels, cut them into small pieces and melt them with a little cream before adding to the dough.

8. Can I add other mix-ins?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, toffee bits, or chopped nuts to the dough for a different twist.

9. What should I do if my dough is too soft?

If your dough is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to firm it up.

10. How can I make the cookies more festive?

Add a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top of the cookies for extra flavor and a festive look.

Conclusion

Caramel Apple Cookies are the perfect treat to celebrate the flavors of fall. The combination of sweet caramel, fresh apple, and chewy cookie texture makes these cookies irresistible. They’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Whether for a cozy night at home or a festive gathering, these cookies are a must-bake for anyone who loves comforting, homemade treats.