Why Chewy Caramel Apple Cookies Are Fall's Sweetest Treat
These caramel apple cookies combine fresh apple pieces, cinnamon, and soft caramel bits in a buttery, chewy cookie. Perfect for fall baking, they’re an easy treat that brings all the flavors of caramel apples into every bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- 1 cup finely chopped apple peeled and cored
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for cooking the apples
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar optional for caramelizing the apples
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon for cooking the apples
- 15-20 caramel candies cut into small pieces or 1/2 cup caramel bits
Instructions
- 1. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add chopped apples, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (if using), and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until apples are tender. Cool completely.
- 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
- 3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
- 4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the cooled apples.
- 5. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough, flatten slightly, and place a caramel candy in the center. Roll the dough around the caramel, sealing it completely.
- 6. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are just set.
- 7. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Precook apples for tenderness.
Chill dough if needed to prevent spreading.
Wrap caramel fully to prevent leakage.