Name: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (at room temperature); 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 and 1/4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup peeled and finely chopped apple (1/4-inch cubes or smaller); 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 2/3 cup powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons milk; 2 teaspoons maple syrup

Jump to Recipe

There’s something irresistibly cozy about Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies that makes them a perfect treat for any time of the year. These cookies combine the warm spices of cinnamon and cloves with the natural sweetness and tender bite of fresh apples, all nestled in chewy oats. Each bite brings a comforting mix of textures and flavors, enhanced by a delicate maple glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness. If you love homemade baked goods that fill your kitchen with a welcoming aroma, this recipe is destined to become one of your favorites.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies, you only need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work harmoniously. Each one plays an essential role in balancing flavor, moisture, and texture to create that perfect cookie experience.

Butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): Provides richness and helps achieve that tender, buttery crumb.
Brown sugar (3/4 cup, light or dark): Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture for chewy texture.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor and adds a subtle sweetness.
All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): The foundation of the cookie that provides structure.
Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 1/4 cups): Gives these cookies that hearty, chewy texture everyone loves.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise gently, keeping them soft without being cakey.
Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle depth and complexity to the spice mix.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
Fresh apple, peeled and finely chopped (1 cup): Adds juicy bursts and natural sweetness; the small pieces ensure even distribution.
Lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Keeps the apple pieces fresh and bright in flavor.
Powdered sugar (2/3 cup): For making the luscious maple glaze that finishes the cookies perfectly.
Milk (2 teaspoons): Needed to create a smooth glaze texture.
Maple syrup (2 teaspoons): Enhances the glaze with distinct maple sweetness and a beautiful sheen.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get it nice and hot. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Brown Sugar

Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter with the brown sugar on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, helping create tender cookies with a soft texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, then scrape down the sides of your bowl to make sure everything blends evenly. This smooth, creamy mixture forms the base of your cookie dough.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the flour, oats, cinnamon, baking soda, cloves, and salt over the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined so you don’t overwork the dough and end up with tough cookies.

Step 5: Prepare Apples and Fold Into Dough

Toss the finely chopped apples with the lemon juice to keep them from browning and to add a refreshing tang. Gently fold the apples into your cookie dough so they are nicely distributed throughout without mashing them.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Scoop out dough in rounds of about 2 tablespoons each and place them on your prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space so the cookies can spread a bit. Press them down slightly for a flatter, chewier cookie. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until the tops are set and edges turn a gentle golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 to 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, mix powdered sugar, milk, and maple syrup to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cookies and let it set. This finishing touch adds a lovely sweetness and irresistible shine.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Garnishes

A sprinkle of additional cinnamon or a few tiny apple pieces on top after glazing can add charm and an extra pop of flavor. You can also dust lightly with powdered sugar for a sweet snowy effect that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

These cookies are fantastic alongside a warm cup of chai tea or a glass of cold milk. For a heartier snack, pair them with a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt or a warm bowl of apple cider to echo the cookie’s apple-cinnamon vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies on a rustic wooden board or a pretty plate with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a gorgeous, welcoming display. Wrapping a small bunch with twine makes a charming gift idea that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps them moist and chewy, preventing them from drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready for a treat.

Reheating

Warm frozen or stored cookies for about 10 seconds in the microwave or for a few minutes in a low oven to bring back that fresh-baked softness. Be careful not to overheat so you preserve their tender texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples in Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies?

Absolutely! Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best because they hold their shape and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

What if I don’t have cloves for the recipe?

While cloves add a lovely warm depth, you can omit them or substitute with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a slightly different but still delicious flavor profile.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend and use certified gluten-free oats to keep the texture and taste just right.

Why do I need to use lemon juice on the apples?

Lemon juice prevents the apples from browning and adds brightness to balance the sweetness, making each bite fresh and vibrant.

Is the maple glaze necessary?

The glaze adds a delightful finishing touch that brings extra sweetness and visual appeal, but you can skip it if you prefer plainer cookies or want to reduce sugar.

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve baked a batch of these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies, you’ll understand why they have a special place in so many hearts. The warm spices, juicy apple bits, and the subtle maple glaze create a harmony of flavors that feels like a big cozy hug on a plate. Go ahead and treat yourself, your loved ones will thank you for it!

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 10 reviews

Author: Rafael
Total Time: 29 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightfully soft and chewy Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies bursting with warm spices and tender apple pieces, finished with a sweet maple glaze. Perfect for a comforting snack or a cozy dessert that combines wholesome oats, fragrant cinnamon, and fresh apple goodness.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking, then set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: Using an electric mixer on high speed, cream together the room temperature butter and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually sprinkle the flour, rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking soda, ground cloves, and salt over the wet mixture. Switch your mixer to low speed and blend just until the dry ingredients are mostly combined and integrated into the dough.
Prepare Apples and Combine: Gently toss the finely chopped apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. Fold the apple pieces carefully into the cookie dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking up. Scoop out dough portions of about 2 tablespoons each and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheets. Press each slightly to flatten.
Bake: Place cookies in the oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the tops are set and edges turn lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 to 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make Maple Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and maple syrup until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more syrup if too thick or more powdered sugar if too thin.
Glaze Cookies: Using a spoon, drizzle the maple glaze generously over the cooled cookies. Set cookies aside on a flat surface without stacking to allow the glaze to set completely before serving.

Notes

Finely chopping the apples into small pieces helps them mix evenly and prevents sogginess.
You can substitute the apple with pears for a different twist if desired.
For a stronger maple flavor in the glaze, add up to an extra teaspoon of maple syrup.
Allow the glaze to fully set before storing cookies to prevent them from sticking together.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or freeze for longer preservation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American