Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are an irresistible treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of fresh apples. Perfect for cozy fall days or any occasion, these cookies are soft, tender, and bursting with flavor. Their delightful aroma and taste make them a favorite among families and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and apple creates a sweet, comforting taste that appeals to everyone.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Great for dessert, snacks, or even as a lunchbox treat, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Healthy Twist: Made with oats and fresh fruit, they offer a wholesome alternative to other cookies.
• Perfect for Sharing: With about 25-30 cookies per batch, they’re ideal for gatherings or holiday celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easy, ensuring a fluffy texture for your cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for mixing ingredients without creating a mess.
• Baking sheets: Provide a sturdy base for baking your cookies evenly.

Ingredients

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a soft, tender cookie that’s loaded with cinnamon and chunks of apples! They are a classic fall cookie with flavors that are amazing year-round!

For the Dough

• 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
• 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

For the Apples

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

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Combine the all-purpose flour, quick cook oats, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Use a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed to cream together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and regular sugar.
2. Continue beating until the mixture is light in color and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs

1. Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture.
2. Mix well after each addition until fully combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Vanilla Extract

Add the vanilla extract into your mixture and blend until combined thoroughly.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into your wet ingredients:
1. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over mix.

Step 7: Add Diced Apples

Gently stir in the diced Granny Smith apples until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough will be thick but sticky.

Step 8: Shape Cookie Dough Balls

1. Using approximately two tablespoons (about 30g) of dough for each cookie ball:
2. You can scoop directly onto the cookie sheet or roll them into balls for uniform shape.
3. Refrigerate for about 20-30 minutes if needed to help with shaping.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 9-12 minutes:
1. Look for lightly golden edges while keeping centers slightly underbaked.
2. Remember that cookies will puff up but settle as they cool.

Step 10: Cool Your Cookies

Remove from oven:
1. Let cool on baking sheets for about 4-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Store Your Cookies

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container:
– They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days as they become softer over time due to moisture from apples.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Serving Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies can elevate your dessert experience, whether for a cozy gathering or a simple treat at home. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance their flavor and enjoyment.

Pair with a Warm Beverage

• Hot Apple Cider: The spiced sweetness of hot apple cider complements the cookie’s cinnamon perfectly.
• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea mirror the flavors of the cookies, creating a comforting pair.

Add a Sweet Dip

• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cookies adds an indulgent touch.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: A light spread of cream cheese frosting enhances the cookie’s sweetness and richness.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Selection: Include mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda alongside the cookies for an interesting contrast.
• Fresh Fruit: Serve with slices of fresh apples or pears to balance the sweet flavors.

How to Perfect Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Perfecting your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies can make a significant difference in their taste and texture. Follow these tips for outstanding results.

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined for tender cookies; overmixing can lead to toughness.
• Chill Cookie Dough if Necessary: If your dough is too sticky, chill it briefly to make shaping easier without compromising texture.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Keep an eye on them while baking; they should be lightly golden and soft in the center when done.
• Store Properly: Place cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain softness and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that pairs beautifully with warm cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and enhance the warm spice profile of the cookies.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a delicious side that balances sweetness.
5. Pumpkin Soup: The rich flavors of pumpkin soup create a cozy, comforting meal when served together.
6. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites can add a creamy element that complements the cookie’s texture beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Incorrect measuring: Always use the right tools for measuring flour and sugar accurately. Spoon the ingredients into the measuring cup and level off with a knife for best results.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated for a soft texture.
• Not using room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a better emulsion, leading to fluffier cookies.
• Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
• Skipping cooling time: Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up and prevents breakage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat cookies individually for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I make my Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies chewier?

To achieve chewier cookies, consider adding an extra egg yolk or using brown sugar instead of white sugar.

Can I substitute different types of apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples are great, you can also use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for different flavors and sweetness levels.

What if I don’t have quick cook oats?

You can use rolled oats instead; just note that the texture may be slightly different, resulting in a heartier cookie.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling your dough before baking can help reduce spreading and give your cookies a thicker structure.

Can these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are delightful treats that capture the essence of fall but can be enjoyed any time of year. They offer versatility by allowing various customization options such as adding nuts or using different spices. Give this recipe a try, and savor every bite!