Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies: A Cozy Delight for Autumn
Warm and inviting, these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies blend the chewy goodness of oats with the sweetness of apples and a touch of cinnamon. As I whip up a batch, the aroma fills my kitchen, bringing a cozy essence reminiscent of fall. This is a recipe that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also warms your heart—perfect for sharing with loved ones! If you want to receive this recipe by email, simply subscribe to my newsletter!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something truly special about these cookies that goes beyond their delightful taste. The combination of oats, apples, and cinnamon creates a comforting flavor profile that’s absolutely perfect for the cooler months. Plus, they’re easy to make, making them a great option for baking with the family! Imagine pulling a tray of these warm, golden-brown cookies from the oven, watching as the steam rises, and sharing them with friends over a cup of cozy tea—it’s hard to resist falling in love with these treats!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups old-fashioned oats
– 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer or whisk
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Cookie scoop or tablespoon
– Wire rack for cooling
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize your cookies! If you don’t have walnuts on hand, try using pecans or leave them out altogether. For added sweetness, you can substitute the diced apple with dried apple pieces, or throw in some chocolate chips for a fun twist! Want to amp up the health factor? Consider adding in some flaxseed or chia seeds!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The smell of cookies baking is just around the corner!
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture!
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. The addition of vanilla elevates the flavors beautifully!
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This blend will soon become the backbone of your cookies!
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix; you want those cookies to be tender and soft.
6. Stir in the oats, diced apple, walnuts, and raisins (if using) until everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough. Can you smell that wonderful aroma already?
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. It’s okay if they’re not perfect; rustic is the way to go!
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies hold their shape. Patience is a virtue here, but the wait will be worth it!
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Try not to sneak too many during this time!
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream atop a slice of warm apple pie. Serve them at your next gathering for a nostalgic treat that everyone will adore!
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your butter is at room temperature to ensure even mixing.
– If your dough feels too wet, add a little more flour, but be careful not to make the dough too dry.
– For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up when you’re craving a sweet treat!
FAQ Section
– **Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?** While you can, old-fashioned oats give the cookies a wonderful chewy texture that quick oats may not provide.
– **What kind of apple works best?** Any sweet variety, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, works beautifully in this recipe!
– **Can I make these cookies gluten-free?** Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a heartfelt and simple treat that you’ll want to make again and again. They are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall right from your kitchen. I’d love to hear from you! If you try this recipe, please leave a review, share your photos, or tag me on Pinterest or Instagram. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Approximately 120 calories per cookie, with 6g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein. Enjoy them as a delightful addition to your day!