Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these caramel apple cookies, gather the following ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup caramel bits
1 cup dried apples, chopped
For the Caramel Drizzle:
1/2 cup caramel sauce
1 tablespoon heavy cream
Step-by-Step Directions
Preparing Your Cookie Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the cookies don’t stick.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated and that the batter is smooth. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before mixing them with the wet ingredients.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tougher cookies.
Adding the Caramel and Apples
Fold in the caramel bits and chopped dried apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. These add-ins give the cookies their signature flavor and texture.
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread as they bake.
Baking to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown, but the centers remain soft. The key to perfect caramel apple cookies is not to overbake them, as this keeps them chewy and soft.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Caramel Drizzle
In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel sauce and heavy cream. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds, or until the mixture is smooth and pourable. Stir well to ensure it’s evenly mixed.
Drizzle the caramel over the cooled cookies. Allow the drizzle to set for a few minutes before serving.