Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookies

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 12 min
🍽 Serves: 24
★★★★★
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If you're on the hunt for the ultimate autumn treat, these Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookies are just the ticket. With the comforting flavors of cinnamon and caramel paired with fresh apples, they're like a cozy sweater for your taste buds.

Ingredients for Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookies

Butter is what makes these cookies rich and keeps them from drying out. Make sure it's softened to blend well with the sugars. Light brown sugar adds a molasses-like depth, while granulated sugar balances the flavors with its straightforward sweetness. Eggs provide structure and help bind everything together. A splash of vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors.

All-purpose flour forms the base, while baking soda helps the cookies rise. Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and a hint of spice that pairs perfectly with the apples. Salt is a must to highlight all the other flavors. Old-fashioned oats give that hearty, chewy texture. Finally, caramel bits melt into gooey pockets of sweetness throughout the cookies.

Tips & Tricks

  • Chop the apples into small, even pieces to ensure they cook through properly.
  • For an extra caramel kick, drizzle melted caramel over the cookies once they've cooled.
  • Keep the dough cold between batches to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own or served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair them with a mug of hot apple cider for a truly cozy experience. They also make a thoughtful gift when wrapped in a pretty tin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
It's best to stick with old-fashioned oats for the right texture. Instant oats might make the cookies too soft and cakey.
How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months.

Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe Walkthrough

First, get your oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. You’ll want to beat them until they're light and fluffy — this usually takes about 3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract; it’s the secret to bringing all the flavors together.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and spices throughout the flour.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture. Mix just until combined; overmixing can make your cookies tough.

Now, stir in the oats, diced apples, and caramel bits. Make sure everything is evenly distributed so you get a bit of each flavor in every bite.

Drop the dough by rounded tablespoonfuls onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of chewy oats and gooey caramel.
  • Great way to use up those extra apples from apple-picking trips.
  • Quick to prepare and bake, perfect for busy fall days.
  • Warm spices make your kitchen smell like a fall wonderland.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
3 cups old-fashioned oats
1 1/2 cups diced apples, peeled and cored
1 cup caramel bits

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing just until combined.
6. Stir in oats, diced apples, and caramel bits until evenly distributed.
7. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
9. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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