Ready to dive into a recipe that combines the cozy flavors of fall with the irresistible sweetness of caramel? These Caramel Apple Cookies are your ticket to dessert heaven, blending juicy apples and gooey caramel into a cookie that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of tart apples and sweet caramel creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- Using brown sugar in the dough adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the apples.
- Chilling the dough before baking ensures the cookies hold their shape and don’t spread too thin.
- Adding a pinch of cinnamon enhances the fall vibe without overpowering the other flavors.
- The step of stuffing each cookie with a caramel square makes every bite a delightful surprise.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely chopped apple (about 1 medium apple)
- 12 caramel squares, unwrapped
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Fold in the chopped apples. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, form the dough into 24 equal-sized balls. Flatten each ball slightly and place a caramel square in the center. Fold the dough around the caramel, sealing it inside, and reshape into a ball. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to set as they cool, so don’t overbake. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Enjoy Your Creation
Once cooled, these cookies are ready to enjoy! The caramel inside will be molten right out of the oven, so be careful when taking your first bite. These cookies are best enjoyed the day they’re made but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra caramel flavor, drizzle melted caramel over the cooled cookies. If you’re short on time, you can skip chilling the dough, but the cookies may spread more during baking. To prevent the caramel from leaking, ensure it’s fully enclosed in the dough. For a crispier texture, bake the cookies for an additional 1-2 minutes. Experiment with different apple varieties for varying levels of tartness and sweetness.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the caramel squares for chocolate chips for a different kind of sweetness.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Incorporate oats into the dough for a chewier texture.
- Use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile.
- Top the baked cookies with a cream cheese frosting for an extra decadent treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramel squares?
While you can use caramel sauce, it’s trickier to encase in the dough and may lead to more leakage during baking. Caramel squares are recommended for the best results.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly underdone. They will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitution blend for the best texture.
Summary
These Caramel Apple Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With their soft texture, sweet and tart flavors, and gooey caramel center, they’re sure to become a favorite. Follow the tips and variations to make them your own!