These Apple Cinnamon Cookies are the ultimate fall comfort treat! The balance of warm cinnamon, juicy apple chunks, and chewy dough creates a cookie that is both satisfying and aromatic. Perfect with a warm drink on a chilly autumn day! They are easy to make and the whole family will love them. Whether enjoyed as an after-school snack, a holiday treat, or a comforting dessert, these cookies will quickly become a favorite. The addition of oats and nuts gives them extra texture, but they can be left out if you prefer a more classic version.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking soda
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp salt
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup brown sugar, packed
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1 large egg
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 large apple, peeled and diced
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1/3 cup oats (optional)
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1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
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Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
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In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
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Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, just until combined.
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Fold in the diced apple, oats, and nuts (if using).
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Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the cookies are set.
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Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal per cookie | Servings: 18 cookies
Apple Cinnamon Cookies: A Heartwarming Recipe for the Whole Family
Apple Cinnamon Cookies are more than just a delicious treat; they are the epitome of autumn flavors. This recipe brings together the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of apples, and the chewy texture of freshly baked cookies. Whether you’re curling up with a hot beverage on a crisp day or preparing a special dessert for your family, these cookies are sure to bring comfort and joy.
The Story Behind Apple Cinnamon Cookies
There is something timeless about the combination of apples and cinnamon. Both ingredients have been used in baking for centuries, from classic apple pies to spiced cakes. Apple Cinnamon Cookies take these traditional flavors and transform them into a quick and easy snack that’s perfect for all ages.
The humble apple has been a symbol of harvest and abundance for generations, and when paired with cinnamon, it evokes feelings of warmth, coziness, and home. The beauty of Apple Cinnamon Cookies is that they blend these nostalgic flavors into a soft, chewy, and aromatic cookie that feels like a hug in a bite.
Why Apple Cinnamon Cookies Are the Best
Apple Cinnamon Cookies stand out for several reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a batch of warm, fragrant cookies in just under 30 minutes. No need for special tools or complicated techniques—just a mixing bowl, a spoon, and a baking sheet. This makes the recipe perfect for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a quick and delicious homemade treat.
Not only are these cookies easy to make, but they also cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. The recipe is fully customizable, meaning you can add your own twist with ingredients like oats, nuts, or even a pinch of nutmeg. You can easily omit the nuts for those with allergies or make them gluten-free by swapping the flour for a gluten-free blend. The addition of apples not only enhances the flavor but also adds moisture to the cookies, keeping them soft and chewy for longer.
Health Benefits of Apple Cinnamon Cookies
While these cookies are undeniably a treat, they also offer some surprising health benefits, particularly when compared to other sweets. The star ingredient—apples—brings a variety of nutrients to the table. Apples are packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. The fiber in apples aids digestion, keeps you feeling full longer, and supports heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. Plus, apples are naturally low in calories, making them a better choice for those who want to indulge without overdoing it on sugar.
Cinnamon, another key ingredient in this recipe, is not only flavorful but also offers numerous health benefits. Studies have shown that cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a beneficial spice for those with diabetes or anyone looking to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day. Cinnamon is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and arthritis.
By combining these two powerhouse ingredients, Apple Cinnamon Cookies provide a wholesome alternative to many other sweet treats. While it’s still important to enjoy them in moderation, you can feel a little bit better about reaching for one (or two) of these cookies.
How to Make the Perfect Apple Cinnamon Cookies
The key to making perfect Apple Cinnamon Cookies lies in balance. The dough should be soft but not too sticky, and the apple pieces should be finely diced so they don’t overwhelm the texture of the cookie. The trick is to use just enough apple to provide moisture and flavor without making the dough too wet.
One of the best things about these cookies is how versatile they are. You can adjust the amount of cinnamon depending on your taste preferences, and you can also add other spices such as nutmeg or ginger to enhance the flavor. The addition of oats or nuts adds texture and nutritional value, making these cookies even more satisfying.
Baking Apple Cinnamon Cookies requires just the right amount of time to ensure they are golden brown on the edges and soft in the middle. Be sure to let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to firm up without losing their chewy texture.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Apple Cinnamon Cookies are ideal for all types of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, preparing an after-school snack for the kids, or simply treating yourself to something sweet, these cookies are the perfect choice. Their warm, comforting aroma will fill your home and create an inviting atmosphere for family and friends.
These cookies are also an excellent gift for the holidays. Package them in a decorative tin or box and hand them out as thoughtful gifts during Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion. Their classic combination of apple and cinnamon will appeal to a wide range of tastes, making them a universally loved treat.
Storage and Shelf Life
One of the great things about Apple Cinnamon Cookies is how well they store. If you manage to have leftovers (which is unlikely!), simply place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, and you can even freeze them for up to three months. Freezing these cookies is a great way to have a homemade treat on hand whenever the craving strikes. Just make sure to let them cool completely before storing them, and allow them to thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Customizing Your Apple Cinnamon Cookies
As mentioned earlier, Apple Cinnamon Cookies are highly customizable, which makes them a great base for experimenting with new flavors. Here are a few ideas for personalizing your batch:
- Nuts and Seeds: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or even pumpkin seeds to your dough for an extra crunch.
- Oats: Incorporating rolled oats into the cookie dough gives them a hearty texture and additional fiber.
- Chocolate: If you’re a chocolate lover, try adding some dark or white chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent twist.
- Vegan Version: For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own.
Conclusion
Apple Cinnamon Cookies are the ultimate comfort food during the fall season. Their perfect blend of cinnamon, apple, and chewy dough makes them irresistible, while their health benefits and easy customization options make them a smart choice for any baker. Whether you’re baking them for yourself or sharing them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and enjoy a batch of these heartwarming cookies today!