Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the soft chewiness of oats with the sweet and warm flavors of apple and cinnamon. These cookies are packed with…
Tip: save now, cook later.Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the soft chewiness of oats with the sweet and warm flavors of apple and cinnamon. These cookies are packed with tender bits of apple and a sprinkle of cinnamon that makes every bite taste like a cozy autumn day. They’re just the right balance of sweet and spicy, with a comforting texture that’s both hearty and soft.
I love making these cookies when the weather starts to cool down because the scent of cinnamon and baked apples fills the kitchen and makes the whole house feel welcoming. One little tip I’ve learned is to use fresh apples instead of dried—they add a gentle moisture that keeps the cookies soft and extra tasty. Plus, the cinnamon gives them a nice little kick that keeps you coming back for more.
These cookies are great to enjoy with a warm cup of tea or a glass of milk, perfect for an afternoon snack or a simple dessert. I often pack them in lunchboxes because they hold up well and make a comforting surprise in the middle of the day. Whenever I bake these, friends always ask for the recipe because they’re just that good—sweet, cozy, and just plain happy in cookie form.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: It gives these cookies a rich, soft texture. If you want a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Just keep the same amount for best results.
Brown Sugar: This adds moisture and a mild caramel flavor that works great with cinnamon. You can swap half the brown sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper taste.
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned oats provide a nice chewy texture. Avoid instant oats here; they can make the cookies too dense. Gluten-free oats are a fine option if you need gluten-free cookies.
Apples: Fresh, finely chopped apples add juicy bursts inside the cookie. I like using a tart apple like Granny Smith for balance, but sweet apples like Fuji also work. You can use dried apple pieces, just reduce the sugar a bit.
Cinnamon: This warm spice is key to flavor. If you want a spice twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon.
How Do You Keep Oatmeal Cookies Soft and Chewy?
Soft oatmeal cookies are all about the right balance of wet and dry ingredients and careful baking time. Here’s how to get them soft every time:
- Don’t overbake: Bake just until the edges start to brown and the centers look set but still soft. They’ll finish firming up as they cool.
- Use butter and sugars well: Brown sugar holds moisture, while butter adds softness. Cream them together until fluffy to trap air for lighter cookies.
- Add chopped apples: These add extra moisture and softness. Make sure they’re finely chopped to distribute evenly.
- Cool on the baking sheet: Let cookies rest on the warm sheet for a few minutes before moving them. This helps them set without drying out.
Following these steps gives you that perfect soft and chewy texture that makes oatmeal cookies so comforting.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – handy for combining wet and dry ingredients separately without making a mess.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – makes creaming butter and sugar easier and smoother.
- Baking sheets – choose rimmed ones to keep cookies from sliding off as they bake.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and helps cookies bake evenly.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – helps drop evenly sized dough portions for uniform cookies.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool properly without getting soggy underneath.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chopped walnuts for pecans or almonds to add a different nutty crunch that pairs well with apples.
- Add 1/2 cup raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates for extra sweetness and chew.
- Mix in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for a touch of chocolate that balances the cinnamon.
- Try adding 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg or ginger with the cinnamon for a spicier cookie experience.
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and finely chopped apple (about 1 medium apple)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. Allow an additional 5 minutes for cooling on the baking sheet and a bit more cooling time on a wire rack. Overall, plan for about 35-40 minutes for the whole process.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Baking Sheets:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and help them bake evenly.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, use a mixer or a strong spoon to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures the baking soda and spices are evenly distributed throughout the cookies.
4. Bring the Dough Together:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix — a few flour streaks are okay. Next, fold in the rolled oats, chopped apples, and if you like, chopped nuts and dried fruit.
5. Shape and Bake:
Drop heaping tablespoons of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, placing them about 2 inches apart to give room for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookie edges are golden and the centers look set but soft.
6. Cool and Store:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Enjoy your soft, chewy apple cinnamon oatmeal cookies with a cozy spice kick!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for These Cookies?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the dough to avoid extra moisture that could make the cookies too soft or soggy.
How Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend and use certified gluten-free rolled oats. This will keep the texture close to the original while making them safe for gluten sensitivity.
Can I Prepare the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and baking.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them—place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
