Caramel Apple Cookies: 11 Fall Favorites

Caramel Apple Cookies have this magical way of transporting me straight back to crisp autumn days and cozy evenings. I remember my first attempt at making these, a little nervous about the caramel sauce and the diced apples, but oh, the smell that filled my kitchen! It was pure bliss – sweet, spiced, with that comforting aroma of baked apples. These aren’t just any cookies; they’re a little bite of fall heaven, with a perfect balance of chewy cookie, gooey caramel, and tender apple chunks. If you’re looking for the best caramel apple cookies to impress your friends and family this season, you’ve found them. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Caramel Apple Cookies

These aren’t just any cookies; they’re a little taste of autumn perfection. Here’s why you’ll be making them again and again:

• Irresistible Flavor Combination: The sweet caramel and tart apples are a match made in heaven.
• Perfect Texture: They have delightfully crispy edges and a soft, chewy center.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it a great option for an easy caramel apple cookie recipe.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday baking, or just a cozy afternoon snack.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful golden-brown color and optional sea salt sprinkle make them look as good as they taste.
• Customizable: Easily add nuts or caramel chips for extra texture and flavor.
• Seasonal Delight: They capture the essence of fall in every single bite.

Ingredients for Homemade Caramel Apple Cookies

Whipping up these delightful caramel apple cookies is a breeze with these simple ingredients. I find using room temperature butter and eggs makes for a creamier dough, which is key for that perfect cookie texture. The caramel sauce not only adds a wonderful sweetness but also helps create that signature gooeyness we all love in homemade caramel apple cookies.

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour – the base for our cookie structure
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the cookies rise and spread
• ½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – essential for richness and texture
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar – provides sweetness and contributes to chewiness
• 2 large eggs, room temperature – bind the ingredients and add moisture
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a warm, classic cookie flavor
• 1 cup caramel sauce – the star, bringing that delicious caramel flavor and gooey texture
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced – about 1 cup, for that perfect apple bite
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional) – for a nutty crunch
• ½ cup caramel chips (optional) – for an extra burst of caramel
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling (optional) – a little sprinkle on top elevates the flavors

How to Make the Best Caramel Apple Cookies

Ready to bake some of the most delicious caramel apple cookies? Follow these simple steps for a batch that’s perfectly chewy and bursting with fall flavor. I love how quickly these come together, making them a fantastic easy caramel apple cookie recipe for any day!

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking for your caramel apple sugar cookies.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, cream together the 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, and 1¾ cups granulated sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. Step 4: Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until just combined.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed. Mix until just incorporated – be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
6. Step 6: Gently fold in the 1 cup caramel sauce, the 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced, and the ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts and/or ½ cup caramel chips if you’re using them. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky, studded with apple pieces.
7. Step 7: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This gives them room to spread as they bake into perfect gooey caramel apple cookies.

8. Step 8: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers look slightly soft. They will continue to set as they cool.
9. Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up just enough so they don’t fall apart. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Step 10: If you like, sprinkle a little coarse sea salt over the cookies while they are still warm. This really makes the flavors pop!
11. Step 11: Store your finished caramel apple cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh.

Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Apple Cookies

Want to guarantee your next batch of caramel apple cookies are absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These tips will help you achieve that perfect texture and flavor every single time.

• For the chewiest cookies, make sure your butter isn’t too soft – slightly firm but yielding is ideal.
• Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour; just mix until it’s combined.
• Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform size, so they all bake evenly.
• If your apples are very juicy, gently pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the dough.

What’s the secret to perfect Caramel Apple Cookies?

The secret to truly perfect caramel apple cookies lies in the balance of textures and flavors. Using a good quality caramel sauce and not overbaking them is crucial for that signature gooey center. For more baking tips, check out baking best practices.

Can I make Caramel Apple Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. This also helps prevent them from spreading too much. For more information on data privacy, please see our privacy policy.

Why are my caramel apple cookies flat?

Flat caramel apple cookies often happen if your butter is too soft or melted, or if you’ve overmixed the dough. Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh; expired leavening agents won’t give them the lift they need. If you have concerns about data handling, please review our GDPR information.

Best Ways to Serve Caramel Apple Cookies

These delightful caramel apple cookies are wonderful all on their own, but I love serving them in a few special ways to really enhance that cozy fall feeling. They pair beautifully with a warm mug of apple cider or a creamy vanilla latte. For a truly decadent treat, try serving them slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream – it’s like a mini apple crisp!

You can also arrange these caramel apple crisp cookies on a festive platter for holiday gatherings, or even use them as a base for mini apple caramel cookie bars by layering them with extra caramel and a crumble topping. They’re so versatile and always a crowd-pleaser!

Nutrition Facts for Caramel Apple Cookies

When you’re enjoying these delicious caramel apple cookies, it’s helpful to have an idea of what you’re eating. These estimates are based on a single cookie, serving as a general guide for this delightful treat.

• Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal
• Fat: Approximately 10-15g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 6-8g
• Protein: Approximately 2-3g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
• Fiber: Approximately 1-2g
• Sugar: Approximately 20-25g
• Sodium: Approximately 50-100mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you add nuts or caramel chips.

How to Store and Reheat Caramel Apple Cookies

To keep your delicious caramel apple cookies tasting fresh and delightful, proper storage is key. Once they’ve completely cooled on the wire rack – and I mean totally cool, no residual warmth! – transfer them into an airtight container. This is super important for maintaining their texture and preventing them from drying out. You can store them at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy these chewy caramel apple cookies for longer, freezing is your best bet. Wrap them well in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they’ll keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen treats, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. For that just-baked warmth, you can reheat them gently. Place a cookie on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes until warmed through. This little step makes them taste almost as good as when they were fresh out of the oven!

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Apple Cookies

What is the best type of apple to use for caramel apple cookies?

For the best flavor and texture in your caramel apple cookies, I recommend using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during baking and provide a lovely contrast to the sweet caramel. Avoid softer apples that can turn mushy. For any questions about our services, feel free to contact us.

Can I make caramel apple cookie dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. This is a great way to get a head start on your baking and also helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much, ensuring you get those perfect homemade caramel apple cookies.

Why are my caramel apple cookies flat?

If your caramel apple cookies are turning out flat, it could be a few things. Make sure your butter wasn’t too soft or melted when you creamed it with the sugar. Also, be careful not to overmix the dough after adding the flour, as this develops gluten and can make them spread. Lastly, check that your baking soda is fresh!

How can I make my caramel apple cookies chewier?

To achieve those wonderfully chewy caramel apple cookies, try using slightly more brown sugar than granulated sugar in the recipe, as brown sugar contains molasses which adds moisture. Also, be careful not to overbake them; pulling them out when the edges are just set and the centers still look a little soft will result in a chewier cookie.

Variations of Caramel Apple Cookies You Can Try

Looking for new ways to enjoy these delightful fall flavors? These variations on our classic caramel apple cookie recipe offer something for everyone. You can easily adapt the base recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs, ensuring you always have a perfect treat on hand!

• Spiced Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookies: Add ½ cup of rolled oats and an extra teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients. This creates a heartier, spiced cookie with a wonderful texture.
• Caramel Apple Cookie Bars: Instead of dropping individual cookies, press the dough evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden. Let cool, then drizzle with extra caramel sauce and cut into bars.
• Gluten-Free Caramel Apple Sugar Cookies: Simply substitute a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Ensure your caramel sauce is also gluten-free. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will be just as amazing!
• Gooey Caramel Apple Shortbread Cookies: For a more tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie, use a shortbread-style base. Reduce granulated sugar slightly and increase the butter. These caramel apple shortbread cookies are incredibly decadent.

Caramel Apple Cookies: 11 Fall Favorites

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

Enjoy these delightful Caramel Apple Cookies, a perfect fall treat that combines sweet caramel, tart apple, and a chewy cookie base. They are crispy at the edges and soft in the middle, making them an irresistible seasonal bake.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1¾ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• ½ cup caramel chips (optional)
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed until just incorporated.
6. Gently fold in the caramel sauce, diced apples, and nuts or caramel chips if using.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and centers are slightly soft.
9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt while still warm, if desired.
11. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Notes

• Homemade caramel sauce can be used for extra flavor.
• Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are recommended.
• Consider adding dark chocolate, dried cranberries, or cinnamon sugar for variations.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if cookies spread too much.
• Adjust baking time if cookies turn out dry.
• Ensure correct butter and flour measurements for desired chewy or crisp texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: Approximately 200-250 kcal (estimate)
• Sugar: Approximately 20-25g (estimate)
• Sodium: Approximately 50-100mg (estimate)
• Fat: Approximately 10-15g (estimate)
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 6-8g (estimate)
• Unsaturated Fat: Approximately 4-7g (estimate)
• Trans Fat: 0g (estimate)
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g (estimate)
• Fiber: Approximately 1-2g (estimate)
• Protein: Approximately 2-3g (estimate)
• Cholesterol: Approximately 30-50mg (estimate)

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