Caramel Apple Cookies 

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 cup peeled and finely chopped apples (Granny Smith works well)
• Caramel sauce for drizzling (store-bought or homemade)

Step-By-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, until everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold in Apples

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Add Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies

1. Portion the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
3. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 4: Drizzle with Caramel

1. Add Caramel: Once the cookies are cool, drizzle caramel sauce over each one for that classic caramel-apple taste. If you prefer, you can also dip half of each cookie in caramel for a bolder flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Caramel Apple Cookies

• Use Tart Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
• Make it Your Own: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch.
• Store Carefully: These cookies are best enjoyed within a day or two to maintain their texture. Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk or a mug of hot cider for the ultimate fall treat. They’re also delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the caramel flavor.

Final Thoughts

Caramel Apple Cookies bring the cozy flavors of fall to life in every bite. With their perfect mix of chewy, soft texture and a delicious caramel finish, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite. Make a batch today, and watch these cookies disappear from the plate in no time!