A heartwarming blend of classic flavors, these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies offer a comforting taste of home. Soft, chewy, and packed with wholesome ingredients, they are perfect for a snack, dessert, or anytime treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 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 rolled oats
- 1 cup diced apples (about 1-2 apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 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 the right texture.
Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening and spices.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Gently fold in the rolled oats, diced apples, and chopped nuts (if using). Ensure everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread during baking.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers should still be slightly soft.
Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking apart.
Why you’ll love this recipe
These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re an experience. The delightful combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and hearty oats creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. They’re easy to make, customizable to your taste preferences, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee or tea.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Pack them in a lunchbox for a delicious and wholesome snack.
- Gift them to friends and neighbors for a thoughtful homemade gesture.
Tips:
- For softer cookies, slightly underbake them. They will continue to set as they cool.
- Use a variety of apples, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, for a more complex flavor profile.
- Toast the nuts before adding them to the dough for enhanced flavor and crunch.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 30-32 minutes
Nutrition Information: (per cookie, approximate)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 100mg
Conclusion
These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of apples, and the heartiness of oats. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!
Question and Answer Section:
Q1: Can I use different types of apples?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties to find your favorite flavor. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Fuji apples all work well in this recipe.
Q2: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.
Q3: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 2 months. Simply scoop the dough into individual portions and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q4: Can I add other ingredients to the cookies?
A: Of course! Feel free to add other ingredients such as raisins, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries to customize the cookies to your liking.
Q5: Why are my cookies flat?
A: Flat cookies can be caused by several factors, such as using softened butter instead of creamed butter, overmixing the dough, or using too much sugar. Ensure that your butter is properly creamed, avoid overmixing, and measure your ingredients accurately for best results.
