Oh, the joy of biting into a soft, spiced cookie with chunks of fresh apple and a sweet caramel drizzle! These cookies are the perfect blend of autumn flavors and textures, making them a must-try for any cookie lover.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of fresh apple and cinnamon brings a warm, autumnal flavor that’s irresistible.
- Soft and chewy texture thanks to the precise balance of ingredients and baking time.
- The caramel drizzle adds a luxurious finish that elevates these cookies from good to unforgettable.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup diced apple (about 1 medium apple)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce for drizzling
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agents and spices throughout your cookies.
Cream Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the mixture, contributing to the cookies’ soft texture.
Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Then, gradually mix in the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the diced apple last to distribute it evenly without breaking it down too much.
Bake to Perfection
Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Drizzle with Caramel
Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle them with caramel sauce. For best results, use a squeeze bottle or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off for even drizzling.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients. If you prefer a thicker caramel drizzle, let the caramel sauce cool slightly before drizzling. To keep the cookies soft, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread; the cookies will absorb the moisture from the bread, staying soft for days.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the apple for pear for a different but equally delicious fruit flavor.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
- For a chocolate twist, mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with the diced apple.
- Make them gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce? Absolutely! While homemade caramel sauce is delicious, a good-quality store-bought version works just fine in a pinch.
How do I store these cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The caramel drizzle may soften over time, but the cookies will still taste amazing.
Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Summary
These caramel drizzled apple cinnamon cookies are a delightful treat that combines the cozy flavors of fall with the sweet, gooey goodness of caramel. Perfect for sharing or enjoying all to yourself!