Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your kitchen with the warm scent of cinnamon and apples, you’ve come to the right place! These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are not just any cookies; they are soft, tender bites that bring the flavors of fall into every season. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your home. The delightful combination of chewy oats and juicy apple chunks makes them irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip these cookies up in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will love the sweet, comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake when you’re ready for fresh cookies.
• Versatile flavors: Enjoy these delicious snacks year-round or make them for special occasions like holidays or birthday parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these delightful cookies! You likely have most of them in your pantry already.

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (175g) uncooked quick cook oats
• 3/4 tsp baking soda
• 1 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 3/4 cup (168g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup (168g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (104g) sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Fresh Ingredients

• 2 cups (213g) peeled, cored, and diced Granny Smith apples

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use different fruits: Swap out Granny Smith apples for other varieties like Honeycrisp or even mix in some dried cranberries for a twist!
• Change the spices: Experiment with adding ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile.
• Make it healthier: Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use coconut oil instead of butter.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While your oven heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure that everything is evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough. Set this bowl aside while we prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugars on medium speed until light in color and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the mixture which helps give our cookies a lovely texture. You want to see that beautiful change in color!

Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time

Now it’s time to add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each addition until fully combined. This gradual method helps maintain that fluffy texture while ensuring everything binds together nicely.

Step 5: Incorporate Vanilla Extract

Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until everything is well combined. This little addition brings warmth and depth to our cookies’ flavor profile!

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until everything is combined; remember not to overmix! Overworking your dough can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.

Step 7: Fold in Apples

Stir in those delicious apple chunks. Your dough will be thick but sticky—this is just right! Those apple pieces will keep our cookies moist and flavorful.

Step 8: Form Cookie Dough Balls

Create balls of cookie dough using about two tablespoons (approximately 30g) per cookie. You can scoop them straight onto the baking sheet or roll them into neat balls if you prefer a nicer shape. If you find the dough too sticky, chill it in the fridge for about 20-30 minutes before rolling.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Pop those trays into your preheated oven! Bake for about 9-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden while centers look just done. Remember not to overbake; they will puff up slightly but settle as they cool.

Step 10: Cool Down

Once baked, let them cool on sheets for about 4-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps set their shape while keeping them soft inside!

Step 11: Store Your Cookies

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. Though trust me—you’ll want to enjoy these delicious Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies within a few days while they’re at their best!

And there you have it! Your homemade Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are ready to be savored or shared with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is simple, but a few tips can elevate them to perfection!

• Use Fresh Apples: Using fresh Granny Smith apples ensures your cookies are juicy and flavorful. Older apples may lack the moisture and sweetness that enhance the overall taste.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, while a gentle fold keeps them soft and tender.

• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you find the dough too sticky, chilling it for about 20-30 minutes can help. This makes rolling easier and improves the shape of your cookies once baked.

• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the middle when you take them out. They will continue to cook slightly as they cool.

• Store Properly: To maintain their softness, store your cookies in an airtight container. They’re best enjoyed within 2-3 days, thanks to the moisture from the apples!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

These scrumptious Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home. Here are some fun ideas on how to present them!

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top not only adds a beautiful touch but also enhances the warm flavors of cinnamon in each bite.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over your cookies before baking for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the apple beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Almond Milk: A refreshing glass of vanilla almond milk pairs wonderfully with these cookies, balancing their sweetness while adding a creamy texture.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like berries and citrus adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the cookies.
• Warm Spiced Chai: Enjoy these cookies alongside a cup of warm spiced chai tea to enhance those comforting autumn flavors in both treats.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fresh fruit and granola for a delightful parfait that makes a great breakfast or snack option alongside your cookies.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy your delicious Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are perfect for meal prep and can easily be made ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week. They stay fresh and flavorful, making them a delightful snack or dessert option.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days, softening slightly from the moisture in the apples.

Freezing

• To freeze, make sure the cookies are completely cooled.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies into a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies:

Can I use rolled oats instead of quick cook oats for Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies?

Yes! You can substitute rolled oats for quick cook oats. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly chewier.

How do I store leftover Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also freeze them to enjoy later!

Can I add nuts to my Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a great addition for added crunch and flavor.

What type of apples work best in Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies?

Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness, which balances well with the sweetness of the cookie. However, feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies! They capture the essence of comfort food while being incredibly easy to whip up. Enjoy every bite as they fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences with me!