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Caramel Apple Cookies recipe

Caramel Apple Cookies

Zac M., smiling male baking coach in a bright kitchen wearing a denim shirt and apron, arms crossedZac M.
These caramel apple cookies are the perfect autumn treat, blending the sweet and tart flavors of caramel and fresh apples with a hint of cinnamon.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 7 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet lined with parchment paper
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 electric mixer

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Add-Ins

  • 1 cup peeled diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 cup caramel bits

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Fold in the diced apples and caramel bits, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.

Serving

  • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Storage

  • Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Notes

Pro Tips: Chill the dough to prevent spreading and ensure chewy cookies. Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute caramel bits with chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve: Serve with hot apple cider or spiced latte for a cozy treat.
Storage & Freshness: Keep cookies soft by storing them with a slice of bread in the container.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for up to a month. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Keyword apple dessert ideas, Caramel Apple Cookies, fall cookies