Description

These gooey caramel apple cookies are packed with crisp apple chunks and melty caramel bits, delivering all the cozy flavors of fall in a soft, chewy cookie. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for autumn gatherings or a comforting treat at home.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large apple, peeled & diced small (about 1 cup)
3/4 cup caramel bits (or chopped soft caramel squares)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for tossing apples)
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Peel and dice the apple into small cubes (about 1/4 inch). Toss with lemon juice if desired to prevent browning. Set aside.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In a large bowl, beat softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
Gently fold in diced apple, caramel bits, and optional nuts. The dough will be thick and chunky.
Use a medium cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers look set but still soft.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
If cookies spread too much, chill dough for 20 minutes before baking. If caramel leaks, it’s okay—crispy caramel edges are delicious!

Notes

For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking. Dice apples small for even baking and avoid soggy cookies. Always use parchment or a silicone mat to prevent caramel from sticking. You can customize with nuts, oats, or extra spices. These cookies freeze well and taste even richer the next day.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie (about 35g)
Calories: 120
Sugar: 12
Sodium: 70
Fat: 5
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 18
Fiber: 1
Protein: 1

Keywords: caramel apple cookies, fall dessert, easy cookies, autumn baking, apple recipes, caramel cookies, chewy cookies, holiday treats