Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookies – Chewy, Sweet & Comforting
Introduction
These Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookies are the ultimate fall treat, combining the warmth of brown sugar, the chewiness of oats, the sweetness of apples, and a drizzle of gooey caramel. They’re soft, flavorful, and perfect for cozy afternoons, holiday cookie trays, or gifting to loved ones. Think of them as apple pie meets oatmeal cookie—with a caramel twist that makes them irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chewy texture: Oats give these cookies a hearty bite.
Apple flavor: Fresh apple bits add natural sweetness.
Caramel drizzle: A decadent finish that elevates them.
Perfect for fall: Ideal for autumn gatherings, bake sales, or holiday trays.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups all‑purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
½ tsp salt
3 cups old‑fashioned oats
1½ cups diced apples (peeled, firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
½ cup caramel bits or soft caramel candies (chopped)
Optional: extra caramel sauce for drizzling
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add to wet mixture.
Step 5: Add Oats & Apples
Stir in oats, diced apples, and caramel bits until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Scoop & Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake 10–12 minutes, until golden around edges but soft in the center.
Step 7: Cool & Drizzle
Cool cookies on wire racks. Drizzle with warm caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Tips & Tricks
Dry apples well: Pat diced apples with paper towels to avoid excess moisture.
Extra chewy: Chill dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Caramel shortcut: Use store‑bought caramel sauce for drizzling.
Storage: Keep in airtight container up to 4 days; freeze up to 2 months.
Variations
Apple Pie Twist: Add raisins or chopped walnuts.
Salted Caramel: Sprinkle sea salt on top after drizzling caramel.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in white chocolate chips for a sweet contrast.
Holiday Version: Add cranberries and pecans for festive flavor.
Serving Ideas
Pair with hot apple cider or coffee.
Stack in gift boxes for fall treats.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
Add to Thanksgiving dessert platters.
FAQs
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old‑fashioned?
Yes, but cookies will be slightly less chewy.
Q: Can I use fresh caramel instead of bits?
Yes, chop soft caramels into small pieces or drizzle after baking.
Q: Can I make these ahead?
Absolutely—dough can be refrigerated up to 48 hours before baking.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Final Thoughts
These Caramel Apple Oatmeal Cookies are chewy, sweet, and full of cozy fall flavors. With apples, oats, and caramel all in one bite, they’re the perfect treat to bake for family gatherings, holidays, or just a quiet afternoon at home.