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Caramel Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

caramel apple cinnamon oatmeal cookies - featured image

These soft and chewy oatmeal cookies are packed with gooey caramel bits, tart apples, and warm cinnamon—perfect for cozy fall days or any time you crave a comforting treat. Easy to make and crowd-pleasing, they combine the flavors of apple pie and caramel in a wholesome cookie.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups (135 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup (45 g) quick oats
  • 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup (100 g) caramel bits
  • 1 cup (120 g) apple, peeled and diced small (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/2 cup (80 g) raisins (optional)
  • Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
  • Extra caramel bits and apple chunks, for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. Peel and dice apple into small 1/4-inch cubes. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), rolled oats, and quick oats.
  4. In another bowl, beat softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  5. Beat in eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract and mix just until combined.
  6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing on low until just combined. Scrape down the sides as needed.
  7. Fold in caramel bits, diced apples, and nuts/raisins if using with a spatula until evenly distributed.
  8. Scoop 1.5-tablespoon mounds of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Press extra caramel bits and apple chunks on top if desired.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden and centers look just set. For crispier cookies, bake up to 14 minutes.
  10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30-60 minutes before baking. Dice apples small and pat dry to prevent excess moisture. Swap flour and oats for gluten-free versions if needed. For vegan cookies, use plant-based butter and flax eggs. Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Press extra caramel bits and apple chunks on top before baking for a bakery-style look.

Nutrition

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