These apple oatmeal cookies are a warm and chewy treat that’s perfect for any day. Packed with sweet apples and hearty oats, they’re sure to bring smiles!
What’s not to love about a cookie that feels a bit healthy? I usually have a few for breakfast and pretend it counts as a balanced meal. 😊
Making these cookies is so simple! Just mix, bake, and enjoy the delicious smell filling your kitchen. They are perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the cookies, giving them structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you could use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead.
Baking Soda: This helps the cookies rise and become fluffy. If you don’t have baking soda, you can use baking powder, but you’ll need to adjust the amount. Use about 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder instead.
Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness. If you want a different flavor, try nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a fun twist.
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness. You can replace it with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s melted and slightly cooled if you go this route.
Apple: I prefer using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness. If unavailable, any sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp works great as well.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans provide a nice crunch. If you’re avoiding nuts, simply omit them or try sunflower seeds for added texture.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Chewy Texture?
The secret to chewy oatmeal cookies lies in the mixing process and baking time. Here are some helpful tips:
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour—mix just until combined. This helps maintain that chewy texture.
- Keep an eye on your baking time! Remove them when they are golden yet still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and stay chewy.
These little tricks will ensure your cookies come out delicious and chewy every time! Enjoy your baking!
How to Make Delicious Apple Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped or grated
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes, including 10 minutes of prep time and 12-15 minutes of baking. It’s a quick and easy treat that can be whipped up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This will ensure even distribution of the ingredients and enhance the flavor of your cookies.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a separate large bowl, take your softened butter and brown sugar, and cream them together using a mixer. Mix for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps to create a nice texture in the cookies!
4. Add the Egg and Vanilla:
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Fold in the Oats and Apples:
Now it’s time to add the fun ingredients! Gently fold in the rolled oats and chopped or grated apple. If you’re using nuts, fold them in as well for some extra crunch!
7. Shape the Cookies:
Using a tablespoon, drop rounded scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread while baking.
8. Bake the Cookies:
Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary slightly!
9. Cool the Cookies:
Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up a bit before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy!
Now, grab a warm cookie, pour yourself a cup of tea or milk, and savor the lovely flavors of your homemade apple oatmeal cookies. They are sure to bring joy to your day!
Enjoy your delicious, chewy treats that are reminiscent of cozy days filled with the smells of cinnamon and apples!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s better to stick with rolled oats for this recipe, as they provide the desired chewy texture. Instant oats absorb moisture more quickly and may result in a softer cookie. If you only have instant oats, you can use them, but adjust the baking time as they may bake faster.
Can I Make These Cookies Vegan?
Absolutely! To make these cookies vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil and substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before mixing it in.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Can I Add Other Mix-ins?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite mix-ins! Chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut can all be great additions. Just keep in mind that they might change the texture and sweetness of the cookies slightly, so you may want to reduce the sugar if you add sweet mix-ins.