Name: Easy Caramel Apple Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup finely chopped apples (Honeycrisp or Gala recommended); 1/2 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)

Craving the cozy flavors of fall wrapped into a chewy cookie? These Easy Caramel Apple Cookies are your new go-to dessert. Think of buttery, soft cookies packed with cinnamon warmth, topped with tender apple slices and rich drizzles of golden caramel—a delicious treat that looks bakery-worthy but is incredibly easy to make at home.

Perfect for weekend baking, festive gatherings, or a simple family indulgence, this recipe brings together all the comforting flavors of a caramel apple in cookie form. The best part? No complicated techniques or fancy ingredients needed. Just classic flavors and pure joy in every bite.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make these Easy Caramel Apple Cookies, having the right tools on hand simplifies the process and ensures perfect results every time:

Mixing Bowls (Large & Medium) – These help organize your wet and dry ingredients separately before combining.
Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer – Ensures the butter and sugar cream into a fluffy, even base. A hand whisk just won’t cut it here.
Silicone Spatula – Perfect for scraping down sides and folding in ingredients gently.
Baking Sheets – Essential for even cookie baking. Choose heavy-duty ones to avoid overbrowning.
Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats – These prevent sticking and make clean-up effortless.
Apple Corer/Slicer – Speeds up prep and ensures uniform slices for topping.
Small Saucepan (if making homemade caramel) – For those who want to take it up a notch with a quick homemade drizzle.

Using the proper tools not only enhances ease but also ensures your cookies bake evenly, have great texture, and look stunning right out of the oven.

Ingredients for the Easy Caramel Apple Cookies

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing texture, structure, and flavor:

Unsalted Butter – The foundation of a chewy, rich cookie.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor.
Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness and improves cookie texture.
Egg – Binds ingredients and helps the cookies rise slightly.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the warm, comforting flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure.
Baking Soda – For leavening and gentle rise.
Salt – Balances sweetness and sharpens flavors.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds cozy spice to the dough.
Chopped Apples (Honeycrisp or Gala) – Brings juicy freshness and natural sweetness.
Caramel Sauce – A luscious topping that ties everything together.

How To Make the Easy Caramel Apple Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Together

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 5: Shape and Top

Scoop out dough balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Slightly flatten each ball and press a few apple slices on top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden.

Step 7: Add Caramel

Once out of the oven, let cookies cool slightly before drizzling warm caramel over each one.

How to Serve and Store Easy Caramel Apple Cookies

These cookies are best served slightly warm, when the caramel is gooey and the apples tender. They pair beautifully with a cup of cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week, or freeze them (without the caramel topping) for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before serving and drizzle with fresh caramel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking helps control spread and keeps the cookies thick and chewy.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Absolutely. It’s a time-saving option. Look for one that’s thick and rich in flavor.

What apple variety works best?

Honeycrisp and Gala are great choices—sweet, firm, and bake well without turning mushy.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum.

Should I peel the apples?

Not necessary! Leaving the peel adds color and slight texture, but you can peel if preferred.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Definitely. The dough can be made 1-2 days in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake.

Want More Apple Dessert Ideas?

You might also like the Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake, a tender breakfast treat with a crunchy topping. Or try the Apple Enchiladas, a unique twist on classic flavors.

For slow-cooked comfort, check out the Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples, perfect for holidays or Sunday dinners. And if you’re up for a creamy slice, the Creamy Easy Egg Custard Pie hits all the nostalgic notes.

For even more cozy and creative treats, don’t miss what I’m pinning daily on Pinterest @LadyPlate.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add cinnamon chips? Maybe a dash of nutmeg? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others bake it.