If you're on the hunt for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, these Cinnamon Apple Cookies are just what you need. With chunks of fresh apple and a warm cinnamon hug in every bite, they’re perfect for any gathering or a quiet afternoon at home.
Butter is the foundation here, providing moisture and richness. Make sure it's softened to cream easily with the sugars. Granulated sugar gives sweetness and helps with the cookie's structure, while brown sugar adds a touch of molasses flavor and chewiness. The eggs bind everything together and add richness. A splash of vanilla extract complements the cinnamon and apples perfectly.
All-purpose flour is our base, giving the cookies their body. Baking soda aids in giving the cookies a soft texture, and a pinch of salt balances the sweetness. The star, ground cinnamon, infuses warmth and spice, while diced apples add moisture and a fresh burst of flavor. Lastly, walnuts (if you choose to use them) bring a nice crunch and a nutty depth.
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a cozy autumn treat, enjoy them with a cup of hot spiced cider or chai tea.
First things first, let’s get your oven ready. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. Now, grab a large mixing bowl and cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. You’re aiming for a light and fluffy mixture here, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes of mixing.
Next, add the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely aroma. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This step ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, so you don’t end up with a mouthful of baking soda in one unfortunate bite!
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Don’t rush this part; take your time to mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Now, gently fold in the diced apples and walnuts if you’re using them. The dough will be quite soft, but that’s perfectly fine.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread. Slide them into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’re looking for edges that are golden brown and centers that are set but slightly soft.
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up without becoming too hard.