Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy fall gathering or a sweet treat any time of the year. The combination of tender oats, warm cinnamon, and juicy apple chunks creates a delightful cookie that everyone will love. Easy to make and full of flavor, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of cinnamon and apple offers a warm, comforting taste that’s perfect year-round.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve great results.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for lunchboxes, parties, or just a snack at home; these cookies fit all occasions.
• Healthy Twist: Packed with oats and apples, they provide a touch of nutrition while satisfying your sweet tooth.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the delightful softness that comes from the combination of oats and apples.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on making your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mats
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Speeds up the creaming process for butter and sugars, ensuring a light texture in your cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking sheets: Provide a flat surface for even baking of your cookies.

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 baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent sticking and allow for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine:
1. Flour
2. Uncooked quick cook oats
3. Baking soda
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Ground nutmeg
6. Salt
Set aside this dry mixture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Light brown sugar
3. Sugar
Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light in color and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture. Mix well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Fold in Apples

Gently stir in the diced Granny Smith apples into the dough until evenly distributed throughout.

Step 7: Form Cookie Dough Balls

Scoop out about 2 tablespoons (approximately 30g) of dough for each cookie. You can drop them onto the baking sheet directly or roll them into balls for a nicer shape after baking.

Step 8: Bake

Place cookies in preheated oven and bake for 9-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. The centers should be just set but not overbaked.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Remove cookies from oven, letting them cool on baking sheets for about 4-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Store

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for best freshness. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days as they soften over time due to moisture from the apples.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or having a cozy night at home, these cookies offer delightful serving options.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances their flavors.

As a Dessert Sandwich

• Spread some cream cheese frosting between two cookies for a delicious dessert sandwich that adds creaminess.

Warmed with Ice Cream

• Heat the cookies slightly and serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert experience.

At Breakfast

• Enjoy these cookies as a quick breakfast option alongside your favorite fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal.

With Coffee or Tea

• Complement your cookies with a cup of coffee or tea to create a cozy afternoon snack.

How to Perfect Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

To ensure your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use softened butter – Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugars, resulting in better texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Mix until ingredients are just combined to avoid tough cookies.
• Chill the dough briefly – If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes before rolling to make handling easier.
• Watch baking time closely – Check your cookies around the 9-minute mark; they should be lightly golden at the edges and soft in the center.
• Store properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness, ideally consuming them within 2-3 days for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

These side dishes pair wonderfully with Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries provides freshness and balance.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and sliced apples to complement the cookie’s flavors while adding creaminess.
3. Cheese Platter – Serve assorted cheeses like brie or gouda alongside crackers for a savory contrast.
4. Cinnamon-Spiced Nuts – Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon can add crunch and richness that pairs beautifully.
5. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers comforting flavors that match well with apple desserts.
6. Herbal Tea – A soothing herbal tea could enhance your cookie experience, bringing out their warm spices beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can sometimes be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results with your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies.

• Skipping Ingredient Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little of an ingredient can change the texture and taste of your cookies.
• Overmixing the Dough: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and tender ones.
• Not Cooling the Dough: If your dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes before shaping. This makes it easier to handle and helps maintain the cookie shape during baking.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
• Storing Incorrectly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents them from becoming hard or stale.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use rolled oats instead of quick-cook oats?

Yes, you can use rolled oats; however, the texture may be slightly different, resulting in chewier cookies.

How do I store leftover Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

What other fruits can I add to these cookies?

You can experiment with other fruits like diced pears or dried cranberries for added flavor and texture.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend will work. Just ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I customize the spices used?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Adding ginger or cloves can create a unique flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors year-round.