Easy Caramel Apple Cookies

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Bite into fall with these irresistibly soft and gooey Easy Caramel Apple Cookies. Picture buttery cinnamon-sugar cookie dough wrapped around chunks of fresh apple, all hiding a rich caramel core that melts into oozy perfection once baked. It’s like a caramel apple, a snickerdoodle, and a bakery-style cookie had the most delicious baby.

These cookies offer all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of fall in one handheld treat. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting neighbors, or just craving something sweet and homemade, these are guaranteed to impress and disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Apple Cookie Recipe

• Gooey caramel center with melty, sticky deliciousness
• Soft, chewy cookie dough spiced with cinnamon and brown sugar
• Fresh apple chunks that give just the right tart crunch
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for fall baking, gifting, or holiday cookie swaps

What Kind of Apples Work Best?

You want a firm, tart apple that won’t get mushy during baking. Granny Smith apples are my top pick because their tangy bite balances out the sweetness of the caramel and cookie dough. Honeycrisp or Braeburn also work great for a sweet-tart combo.

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Ingredients for the Easy Caramel Apple Cookies

Unsalted Butter: Gives richness and helps create a soft, chewy cookie texture.

Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a warm molasses depth.

Granulated Sugar: Helps with structure and crisp edges.

Egg: Binds the dough and adds richness.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the cookie’s flavor profile.

All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure.

Baking Soda: The leavening agent that gives the cookies lift.

Salt: Balances the sweetness.

Ground Cinnamon: Infuses warmth and spice.

Chopped Apples: Brings fruity moisture and a sweet-tart contrast.

Soft Caramel Candies: The gooey surprise center.

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How To Make the Easy Caramel Apple Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter, 3/4 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until combined.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in the Apples

Gently stir in 1 heaping cup of peeled and chopped Granny Smith apples.

Step 6: Assemble the Cookies

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, flatten it slightly, place one soft caramel candy in the center, then roll it into a ball and seal the caramel inside.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 8: Cool & Drizzle

Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring. Optional: drizzle extra melted caramel over the top for even more indulgence.

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How to Serve These Cookies Warm & Gooey

These cookies taste amazing warm when the caramel is still melty. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a mug of hot cider. This batch makes about 20 cookies, perfect for serving 8 to 10 people.

Storing Tips to Keep Them Soft

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop one in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back the gooey caramel magic. You can also freeze the baked cookies (without the drizzle) for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use caramel sauce instead of candies?
Caramel sauce will leak during baking. Stick to soft caramel candies like Werther’s or Kraft for best results.

What if my dough is too sticky?
Chill it for 20 minutes. The butter firms up, making it easier to handle.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.

Can I make the dough ahead?
Absolutely. Refrigerate the dough up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

How do I keep the caramel from leaking out?
Make sure the dough is fully sealed around the caramel before baking and don’t place it too close to the edges.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If these gooey caramel apple cookies are your vibe, you’ll definitely want to try:

• Salted Caramel Fudge Truffles
• Apple Bars
• Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Soft Pumpkin Snickerdoodles with Cinnamon Sugar
• Apple Brownies

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Honeycrisp instead of Granny Smith? Did you drizzle extra caramel on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore more recipes on Life With Livia for sweet ideas daily!

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