Caramel Apple Cookies
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A Sweet Fall Treat You’ll Want to Make on Repeat
There’s something magical about fall that makes us crave warm, comforting desserts—and these Caramel Apple Cookies are exactly that! Soft, chewy, and full of cozy flavor, they’re the perfect way to enjoy everything you love about caramel apples without the sticky mess.
This Caramel Apple Cookies recipe is my go-to when I want something sweet, a little nostalgic, and super easy to whip up. It’s like biting into a warm caramel apple, but with a soft cookie base and bursts of sweet cinnamon. I love how the tart green apple balances the rich caramel for a truly irresistible bite.
Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make—mix, scoop, bake, and enjoy!
Want to make the best caramel apple cookies? I’ve got all the tips for getting that perfect soft and chewy texture. And don’t forget the caramel center—it takes these cookies to the next level!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients Needed
- Butter – softened to room temperature
- Brown sugar
- Large eggs – room temperature
- Flour
- Cinnamon
- Salt
- Baking soda
- Chopped green apple – about 1 medium apple
- Soft caramels – unwrapped
For a full list of ingredients and their measurements, please view the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Easy Substitutions And Additions
- Apples: Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work best, but you can substitute them with Granny Smith for a more tart flavor. Avoid soft varieties like Red Delicious.
- Caramels: Use your favorite soft caramel brand. Want to skip the center? Try stirring in caramel bits instead.
- Add-ins: Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Drizzle: For a fancy finish, drizzle cooled cookies with melted white or dark chocolate.
Step by Step Guide
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda.
Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Fold in chopped apple pieces gently.
Scoop cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet.
Press a soft caramel into the center of each dough ball, gently pushing it down.
Bake for 10–11 minutes, or until cookies are just beginning to brown.
Cool on a wire rack before serving. The caramel will firm up slightly as the cookies cool.
Serving Suggestions
These Caramel Apple Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in so many delicious ways! Here are a few ideas to make the most of these cozy fall treats:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy apple pie-inspired dessert.
- Pair with a cup of hot cider, coffee, or spiced tea for the ultimate fall afternoon pick-me-up.
- Add them to your autumn dessert table for Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or cozy gatherings.
- Wrap them in cellophane bags with a ribbon and gift them to neighbors, teachers, or friends—they make sweet homemade gifts!
- Crush and sprinkle over yogurt or oatmeal for a fall-flavored breakfast or snack.
No matter how you serve them, these cookies bring all the cozy vibes of the season with every bite!
Tips for Success
- Chop apples small so they blend evenly into the dough.
- Use parchment paper to prevent the caramel from sticking to the pan.
- Let cookies cool completely before storing to avoid caramel sticking together.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! You can make the dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. Just add the caramels before baking.
Can I use caramel bits instead of whole caramels? Definitely. Just stir in ½ cup of caramel bits instead of placing a caramel in the center.
How long do these cookies stay fresh? They’re best within 2–3 days but can be stored for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
These Caramel Apple Cookies are the no-stress, flavor-packed treat that brings all the cozy fall vibes. Whether you’re baking for a party, a weekend treat, or just because, you’ll love how easy and delicious they are!
Did you make this? I’d be so grateful if you left a star ★★★★★ rating and a comment below to let me know what you thought! Then, the next time you need a quick and easy recipe, browse all my easy recipes!
Caramel Apple Cookies
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter softened to room temperature
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ cup chopped green apple
- 12 soft caramels unwrapped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Prepare a baking sheet with grease or parchment paper.
- Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
- Add dry flour mixture to sugar mixture, and mix until combined.
- Gently fold in apple pieces.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons onto a prepared baking sheet.
- Place caramel in the middle of each cookie, and gently push down.
- Bake for about 10-11 minutes or until just beginning to brown.
- Move to a wire rack to cool.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, is intended to serve as an estimate only, and is provided for informational purposes. The accuracy of nutritional information is not guaranteed.
This post was originally published on August 15, 2019, and was updated with new content on April 21, 2025.
