Caramel Apple Cookies

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with these Caramel Apple Cookies. Soft, chewy, and bursting with juicy apple chunks and creamy caramel bits, these cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, they will become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

Ingredients

2 cups flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup diced apples
1/2 cup caramel bits

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just incorporated. Fold in the diced apples and caramel bits gently.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. The prep time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 12-15 minutes, resulting in a total time of around 30 minutes.

Variations

• Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spice It Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm flavor.
• Glaze: Drizzle a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cookies for extra sweetness.
• Different Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use unsweetened applesauce instead of diced apples?
   Yes, you can substitute applesauce, but adjust the amount to 1/2 cup to avoid excess moisture.
2. What kind of apples are best for these cookies?
   Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji apples work well for a good balance of sweetness and tartness.
3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
4. What if I don’t have caramel bits?
   You can chop up regular caramel candies into small pieces as a substitute.
5. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers may look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.
6. Can I add chocolate chips?
   Absolutely! Feel free to mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a delicious chocolatey twist.
7. What can I do with leftover cookie dough?
   Cookie dough can be frozen in balls and baked fresh whenever you want.
8. Do these cookies need to be refrigerated?
   No, they can be stored at room temperature as long as they are in an airtight container.
9. Are these cookies gluten-free?
   You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
10. Can I substitute margarine for butter?
    Yes, margarine can be used, but it may affect the texture slightly.

Conclusion

These Caramel Apple Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With their soft texture, sweet apple pieces, and gooey caramel, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Perfect for gatherings, snack time, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies will leave everyone wanting more!

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