Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

If you’re searching for a cookie that perfectly blends warmth, spice, and a hint of fruitiness, these Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cookies are going to be your new absolute favorite. Bursting with the cozy flavors of cinnamon, tender chopped Granny Smith apples, and wholesome oats, they strike a delightful balance between chewy and soft with every bite. The combination of spices including nutmeg, ginger, and cloves creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as these beauties bake to golden perfection. Whether you’re baking for a crisp fall afternoon or just because you love a sweet treat with depth, these Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cookies are simply irresistible and sure to become a staple in your cookie repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients makes this recipe incredibly approachable, yet each element plays a vital role in texture, taste, and that signature cinnamon-apple charm.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides rich creaminess and a tender crumb to the cookies.
• Packed brown sugar (1 cup): Adds deep molasses sweetness and moisture to keep cookies soft.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances the sweetness and contributes to cookie crispness.
• Large egg (1): Helps bind all ingredients, adding structure to the dough.
• Unsulphured molasses (1 tablespoon): Brings a warm, slightly smoky sweetness that complements the cinnamon.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor complexity with its fragrant notes.
• Lemon juice (1 teaspoon, optional): Brightens the apple flavor and balances the sweetness.
• All-purpose flour (1 2/3 cups): Forms the base, providing substance and helping cookies hold their shape.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Leavens the dough for a perfect rise and tender crumb.
• Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The heart of the spice blend, adding warmth and depth.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
• Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Introduces a subtle spicy kick that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
• Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Adds an aromatic intensity that enriches the cookie’s spice profile.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a hint of sweetness and warmth, rounding out the spices.
• Uncooked whole-rolled oats (2 1/4 cups): Give the cookie its chewy texture and hearty bite.
• Finely chopped peeled Granny Smith apples (1 cup, about 1/4″ pieces): Bring fresh tartness and moisture to every bite.
• Chopped walnuts (3/4 cup): Add satisfying crunch and nutty flavor, or substitute ½ cup oats for a nut-free version.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by using a stand or handheld mixer to cream the softened butter together with both brown and granulated sugars at medium speed. This step is essential because it incorporates air, making the cookies light and soft. Beat until the mixture is pale and creamy, setting a perfect base for the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, mix in the egg, vanilla extract, molasses, and if you choose, a splash of lemon juice. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of your bowl occasionally to ensure everything blends evenly. These wet ingredients lend moisture, flavor complexity, and a subtle brightness that brings the entire dough together beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all your dry ingredients except the oats: flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. Then stir in the oats. This mixture of spice and oatmeal will deliver the signature taste and chewy texture you crave in these cookies.

Step 4: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients

With the mixer running on low speed, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet bowl. Because the dough will be thick, finish mixing with a sturdy wooden spoon. Finally, fold in the finely chopped Granny Smith apples and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed. Cover the dough tightly and chill it for at least 4 hours—the chilling is key for allowing the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up, which makes the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat. Scoop the dough by rounded tablespoonfuls, dropping them 3 inches apart (about 8 cookies per sheet). Bake for 11 to 15 minutes, keeping a close eye for golden edges with a center that’s just set but still soft. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 3 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. The smell alone will have you ready to dive right in!

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cookies

Garnishes

To elevate your Cookie experience, sprinkle a tiny dusting of cinnamon sugar on top just before baking or a light drizzle of vanilla glaze once cooled. For an extra festive touch, a few toasted walnut halves placed on each cookie before baking bring both visual appeal and a satisfying crunch.

Side Dishes

These cookies shine beautifully alongside a warm cup of chai tea or a glass of cold milk. For breakfast or brunch, serve them with a hearty bowl of spiced apple cider or creamy hot chocolate to enhance those cozy fall vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try sandwiching these cookies with cinnamon cream cheese frosting or apple butter for a delightful handheld treat. Alternatively, crumble some over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a sweet and spicy dessert parfait that’ll impress your family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store your Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly sealed, they stay soft and chewy for up to five days, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough or baked cookies. For dough, form the balls and freeze them on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag; bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to baking time. For baked cookies, layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

To revive your stored cookies, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds. This refreshes their softness and releases those mouthwatering cinnamon and apple aromas all over again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples instead of Granny Smith?

Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness and firmness, which hold up well during baking. However, you can substitute with Fuji or Honeycrisp apples if you want a sweeter, softer bite. Just chop them finely to maintain a great texture.

Are walnuts necessary in this recipe?

Walnuts add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, but they are totally optional. If you have a nut allergy or prefer them out, simply replace the amount with extra oats or your favorite mix-in like raisins or dried cranberries.

How do I keep these cookies soft and chewy?

Chilling the dough is crucial; it helps control spreading so cookies stay thick and chewy rather than thin and crispy. Also, don’t overbake—remove them as soon as edges turn golden and centers look set but still soft.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

With a few substitutions like plant-based butter, a flax or chia seed egg, and ensuring any add-ins meet vegan standards, you can absolutely enjoy a vegan version of Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cookies while keeping much of their delicious charm.

What’s the best way to measure flour?

For precise baking, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can compact the flour and lead to dry, dense cookies.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cookies are a wholehearted celebration of everything cozy and delicious about fall baking. Whether you’re sharing them with friends over a cup of tea or keeping them as a personal treat, they’re sure to become a treasured part of your baking traditions. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create some cookie magic that will warm your heart and your kitchen.

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