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Caramel Apple Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tangy taste of apples with the rich, buttery flavor of caramel. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just a cozy night in. They are soft, chewy, and packed with the goodness of apples, making them a favorite among cookie lovers.
Why make this recipe
Making Caramel Apple Cookies is an enjoyable way to celebrate the flavors of fall. They are simple to prepare and only require a few ingredients. The combination of caramel and apples creates a delicious taste that everyone will love. Plus, these cookies fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma that will make your home feel cozy and inviting.
How to make Caramel Apple Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of butter, softened
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup of chopped apples (peeled)
- 1 cup of caramel bits
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped apples and caramel bits.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cooling on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to serve Caramel Apple Cookies
Serve Caramel Apple Cookies warm with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce on top or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make a perfect snack or dessert and are sure to impress your family and friends.
How to store Caramel Apple Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.
Tips to make Caramel Apple Cookies
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast.
- Chop the apples into small pieces to ensure they distribute evenly in the dough.
- Do not overmix the dough once you add the flour, as this can make the cookies tough.
- For a fun twist, sprinkle some cinnamon on top of the cookies before baking.
Variation
You can add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a bit of crunch. Alternatively, consider substituting the caramel bits with chocolate chips for a chocolate-apple version!
FAQs
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute apples with pears or even mashed bananas for a different flavor.
2. What if I don’t have caramel bits?
You can melt caramel candies and then drizzle them into the cookie dough or on top of the cookies once baked.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
Caramel Apple Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cookies that combine the sweet and tangy taste of apples with rich caramel, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of butter, softened
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup of chopped apples (peeled)
- 1 cup of caramel bits
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped apples and caramel bits.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cooling on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For best flavor, use tart apples like Granny Smith and avoid overmixing the dough.