Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these cinnamon caramel apple cookies! They’re like little bites of fall wrapped in a cozy hug. Every time I make them, the sweet aroma of cinnamon fills my kitchen, and I can’t help but smile.
I remember the first time I baked them for a family gathering; I was a little nervous, but they disappeared faster than I could say “cookies!” The combination of soft, chewy cookie dough with chunks of tart apples and gooey caramel bits is just magical. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be dreaming of these cookies long after they’re gone.
They’re perfect for cozy evenings, holiday celebrations, or just because you deserve a treat! So, let’s dive in and whip up a batch of these irresistible delights together!
Ingredients List
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 cup chopped apples
1 cup caramel bits
How to Prepare *Cinnamon Caramel Apple Cookies*
Alright, let’s get those hands a little floury and dive into the fun part—making these delicious cookies! I promise, it’s a straightforward process, and you’ll be rewarded with warm, gooey cookies in no time.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step because we want those cookies to bake evenly and come out just right.
Now, grab a large mixing bowl and cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. You want to mix it until it’s nice and smooth—about 2-3 minutes should do the trick!
Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix it all together until it’s beautifully combined. Oh, the smell of vanilla is just heavenly!
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and that delightful ground cinnamon. This is where the magic starts to happen!
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Mix just until combined—don’t overdo it, or your cookies might get tough!
Fold in the chopped apples and caramel bits. This is my favorite part! The apples add a lovely freshness, while the caramel brings that sweet, gooey goodness.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each one. They’ll spread while baking!
Pop them in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until they’re golden brown around the edges. Your kitchen is about to smell AMAZING!
Once they’re out, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Trust me, the waiting is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Incredible flavor combination of sweet cinnamon, tart apples, and rich caramel.
Super easy to whip up—perfect for bakers of all skill levels!
Ideal for any occasion, from cozy family nights to festive gatherings.
Soft, chewy texture that keeps you reaching for one more cookie.
House-filling aroma that will make everyone feel right at home.
Tips for Success
Okay, let’s make sure your *cinnamon caramel apple cookies* turn out absolutely perfect! First, I can’t stress enough the importance of using room temperature butter. It helps create that creamy texture we all love. And don’t skip the chilling step—if you can, let your dough rest for about 30 minutes in the fridge before baking. This makes the cookies thicker and chewier!
When it comes to baking, keep an eye on those cookies around the 10-minute mark. Ovens can vary, and you want them just golden around the edges but still soft in the center. If they look a little underbaked, that’s okay; they’ll continue to cook while cooling.
Lastly, don’t be shy with the apples and caramel bits. The more, the merrier! Just be careful not to overmix once you add them in—gentle folding is key to keeping those delicious chunks intact.
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutrition in these delightful *cinnamon caramel apple cookies*! Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just estimates. Each cookie is approximately 150 calories, with about 7g of fat, 2g of protein, and 20g of carbohydrates. You’ll also find around 10g of sugar and 1g of fiber per cookie. Remember, these numbers can change a bit depending on how generous you are with those caramel bits and apples! Enjoy every bite guilt-free, knowing you’ve got a delicious treat on your hands.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of apple? Absolutely! While I love using tart apples like Granny Smith for that perfect balance with the sweetness of caramel, you can experiment with any variety you enjoy. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will add more sugar to the overall flavor!
What can I substitute for caramel bits? If you can’t find caramel bits, you can chop up soft caramel candies or even use chocolate chips if you’re in a pinch. They’ll still add a delicious sweetness, but the flavor will be a bit different.
Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, you can! Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container or freeze them in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
How do I store leftover cookies? Store your *cinnamon caramel apple cookies* in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay soft and chewy, but I doubt they’ll last that long with how delicious they are!
Can I add nuts to the recipe? Definitely! Walnuts or pecans would add a lovely crunch and enhance the flavor. Just fold them in with the apples and caramel bits for an extra special touch!
Serving Suggestions
These *cinnamon caramel apple cookies* are delightful on their own, but why not elevate your dessert game a bit? Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that dreamy à la mode experience. Drizzle a bit of extra caramel sauce over the top for a sweet finishing touch! Alternatively, pair them with a steaming cup of spiced chai or apple cider to complement the cozy flavors. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of whipped cream on the side adds a lovely creaminess. Trust me, these combinations will take your cookie experience to the next level!
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