Caramel Apple Cookies
This delightful recipe combines the flavors of two beloved treats: caramel and apples, creating a sweet cookie that’s perfect for any occasion. Caramel Apple Cookies not only taste wonderful, but they also have a lovely texture that balances soft, chewy edges with a touch of crunch. Whether you’re baking for a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging your cravings, these cookies are sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
Caramel Apple Cookies are a perfect way to celebrate the fall season but can be enjoyed year-round. The combination of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg with sweet apples and buttery caramel makes these cookies an instant favorite. They’re easy to make and provide a unique twist on traditional cookie flavors, bringing joy to both young and old alike. Plus, they can be a fun project to do with family or friends, creating wonderful memories in the kitchen!
How to Make Caramel Apple Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup caramel chips
- 1 cup diced apples, peeled and cored
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set them aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until fully incorporated, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the milk and continue mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Stir in the caramel chips and diced apples by hand using a spatula, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each cookie dough mound with the back of a spoon to help them spread evenly while baking.
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown and the centers are set.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Cookies
Caramel Apple Cookies are delightful on their own, but you can enhance the experience further by serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling them with additional caramel sauce. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for an afternoon treat or dessert.
How to Store Caramel Apple Cookies
To keep your Caramel Apple Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Tips to Make Caramel Apple Cookies
- Use Fresh Apples: Ensure to use fresh and flavorful apples for the best taste; varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work particularly well.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix only until combined to keep your cookies tender.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices based on your taste or add a pinch of ginger for an extra pop!
Variation
For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough alongside the caramel chips and diced apples. You could also experiment with different types of chips, like white chocolate or dark chocolate, for a richer flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes! While apples are the star of this recipe, you can substitute with other fruits like pears or even dried fruits, but keep in mind that this may change the cookie’s texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of caramel chips?
If you cannot find caramel chips, you can substitute them with butterscotch chips or even melted caramel candies. Just be sure to adjust the quantity as needed.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.
Caramel Apple Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk
Add-ins
- 1 cup caramel chips
- 1 cup diced apples, peeled and cored Use fresh varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until fully incorporated, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the milk and continue mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Stir in the caramel chips and diced apples by hand using a spatula, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
Baking
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each cookie dough mound with the back of a spoon.
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and centers are set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
