These apple oatmeal cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with sweet apple bits and warm spices. They’re perfect for snack time or a cozy treat!
Seriously, who can resist cookies that smell like apple pie? I love making a big batch and sharing them with friends—or keeping them all to myself! 🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for these cookies as it allows you to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil works great as a substitute, giving a nice flavor!
Sugars: Brown sugar adds moisture and a rich flavor, while granulated sugar gives a nice crisp. You can swap granulated sugar for more brown sugar if you prefer a chewier cookie.
Apples: I recommend using sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a nice contrast with the spices. If fresh apples aren’t available, unsweetened applesauce can work in a pinch but will change the cookie’s texture a bit.
Oats: Old-fashioned oats add a great chewy texture. Quick oats can work too, but they might result in softer cookies. If gluten-free is your goal, use certified gluten-free oats.
Nuts: Chopped nuts can enhance the flavor and texture. If you’re nut-free, simply skip them or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
What’s the Most Important Step in Mixing the Cookie Dough?
The mixing technique is crucial for the right texture. Creaming the butter and sugars until light and fluffy introduces air, leading to a softer cookie. Be gentle when mixing in the dry ingredients; overmixing can make cookies tough. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming.
- Blend sugars with softened butter for about 2-3 minutes until light.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each.
- Combine dry ingredients separately and add gradually to keep the mix light.
Following these steps will ensure your cookies turn out soft and delicious every time!
Apple Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
For the Apples:
- 1 1/2 cups peeled, cored, and finely chopped apples (about 1 large apple)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 12-15 minutes of baking time, plus cooling. Overall, you can expect to have delicious cookies ready in about 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps to distribute the leavening agents evenly.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is blended together. Overmixing can make the cookies less chewy, so mix just until combined.
6. Fold in Oats and Apples:
Gently fold in the oats and chopped apples (and nuts if using) to the mixture. Make sure everything is evenly coated and mixed.
7. Portion the Dough:
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
8. Bake the Cookies:
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set but not too dark.
9. Cool Down:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Enjoy:
Share these delightful apple oatmeal cookies with friends or enjoy them with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. They’re sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face!
These cookies are perfect for fall or any time you crave a cozy treat! Happy baking!
Can I Substitute the Butter in This Recipe?
Yes! If you need a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
What Type of Apples Work Best?
Sweeter apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala are great choices! They add sweetness and flavor. If you prefer a tart taste, Granny Smith apples work well too!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer and transfer to a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw before eating!
Can I Modify the Recipe for Healthier Options?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber, or reduce the sugar by up to a third. Adding in a few tablespoons of flaxseed meal can also boost the nutrition without altering the taste too much!