Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, and warm flavors dance on your taste buds. Today, I am excited to share my recipe for Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies. These delightful treats are the epitome of comfort, with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The soft texture of oats, the sweetness of apple, and the warmth of cinnamon come together to create a symphony of flavors in each bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect blend of sweet and spiced flavors.
- Great way to use up apples and oats.
- Easy to make and perfect for baking with kids.
- Healthy twist on a classic cookie with the addition of oats and fruit.
What Is Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies?
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional oatmeal cookies. They incorporate the flavors of fresh apples and warm cinnamon to create a unique and comforting treat. These cookies are perfect for fall, but can be enjoyed all year round. They are chewy, moist, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make them a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 apple, peeled and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 6: Fold in Apple and Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped apple and nuts, if using, until evenly distributed in the cookie dough.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips for Success
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for the ideal cookie texture.
- Chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour to avoid tough cookies.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a dash of cinnamon sugar on top of each cookie before baking.
Recipe Variations
Customize your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with these ingredient swaps:
- Substitute raisins or dried cranberries for the chopped apple.
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.
- Replace the nuts with chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
What to Serve With It
Enjoy these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea for a cozy snack. They also make a delicious dessert served alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Meal Prep & Storage
To meal prep, you can make the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Once baked, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Instant oats can be used, but the texture of the cookies may be slightly different. Rolled oats give a chewier texture, while instant oats may make the cookies a bit softer.
Can I omit the nuts for a nut-free version?
Yes, you can absolutely omit the nuts if you have allergies or prefer not to include them. The cookies will still be delicious without the nuts.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they are a hug in cookie form, a warm embrace on a chilly day. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it does for me every time I bake a batch. With the wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!