Caramel Apple Cookies bring together two of my favorite flavors for a deliciously sweet treat that feels just like fall. These cookies are soft and chewy with little bits of tender apple throughout, plus gooey caramel pieces that add a perfect touch of richness. The combination is simple but so satisfying, like biting into a warm apple pie wrapped up in a cookie.
I love making these cookies when the weather starts to cool down. There’s something so cozy about the smell of cinnamon, apples, and caramel baking together in the oven. My favorite trick is to use fresh apples and to fold in just enough caramel bits so they melt slightly but still give a little surprise of sweetness in every bite.
These cookies are great for sharing at a casual get-together or just enjoying with a cup of tea or hot cider on a quiet afternoon. I find that they remind me of picking apples with family or sitting by a campfire, which makes each bite feel extra special. If you’re looking for a comforting and fun twist on classic cookies, I’d definitely give these a try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Softened unsalted butter is best for a tender, rich cookie. If you only have salted, cut back on added salt in the recipe.
Apples: Granny Smith apples work well for tartness and hold their shape. You can use Gala or Fuji if you prefer sweeter or softer bites.
Caramel: Soft caramel bits melt nicely in the dough and on top. If unavailable, small squares of caramel candies or caramel sauce work great too.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Adds a nice tang to balance the sweetness. Store-bought is quick, but homemade gives a fresher taste.
Spices: Cinnamon is key for that warm fall flavor. Nutmeg adds subtle depth but can be skipped if needed.
How Do You Keep Apple Slices Fresh and Tasty on Cookies?
Fresh apple slices can brown quickly, changing taste and appearance. Here’s how I keep them bright and crisp:
- Slice apples thinly right before topping the cookies.
- Toss slices briefly in a little lemon juice or orange juice to prevent browning.
- Add apples after cookies have fully cooled and frosting is set to avoid steam sogging them.
- Store finished cookies in the fridge to keep apples fresh longer.
This way, your apple slices stay looking and tasting great on top of the soft, frosted cookie!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I like using large bowls to mix the dough easily and keep everything contained.
- Electric hand or stand mixer – speeds up creaming the butter and sugars beautifully.
- Baking sheets – flat and sturdy, for evenly baking your cookies.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cooling rack – helps the cookies cool evenly and stay crisp on the edges.
- Knife and cutting board – for thinly slicing apples neatly.
- Spatula or spoon – for scooping dough onto the baking sheet.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap apple slices for pears or peaches for a different fruity twist that still pairs nicely with caramel.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to give crunch and richness.
- Mix in chocolate chips alongside caramel bits for extra sweetness.
- Sprinkle a little sea salt over the caramel topping for a salted caramel flavor that’s irresistible.
How to Make Caramel Apple Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Toppings:
- 1 large apple (Granny Smith or preferred tart apple), thinly sliced
- 1 cup caramel sauce or soft caramel bits (for drizzling and mixing in)
- 1 cup cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep and baking take about 25 minutes. Allow another 15 minutes for cooling and assembling the toppings. This means you can have delicious caramel apple cookies ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture looks light and fluffy. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined.
Carefully fold in half of the caramel bits if you’re using them, which will add little sweet surprises inside the cookies.
3. Bake the Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, keeping them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are set and the cookies have a lovely golden color.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Add the Toppings
Once the cookies are cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on each one. Place 2–3 thin apple slices on top of the frosting.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple-topped cookies for a sweet, gooey finish. Sprinkle crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs over the top if you like a little crunch.
5. Serve and Store
Your caramel apple cookies are ready to enjoy right away! If storing, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and bring them to room temperature before serving to get the best texture.
Can I Use Frozen Apples for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh apples for topping as frozen ones can turn mushy and watery. If you must use frozen, thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before using.
How Do I Store Leftover Caramel Apple Cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving to restore their softness.
Can I Make the Cookies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cookies and store them without frosting or toppings for up to 3 days. Add frosting, apple slices, and caramel drizzle just before serving.
What’s a Good Substitute for Cream Cheese Frosting?
You can use a simple vanilla glaze or buttercream frosting if you prefer. Even plain caramel drizzle over apples works well for a lighter topping.
