Fresh Apple Oatmeal Cookies

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and ground ginger (if using). Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

1. In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.

Step 3: Add the Apples and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.
2. Gently fold in the diced apples and optional raisins or walnuts. The apple pieces should be evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Scoop and Bake

1. Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Flatten the dough slightly with the back of a spoon to help them bake evenly.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
4. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Once the cookies are fully cooled, they’re ready to enjoy! The soft and chewy texture, combined with the fresh apple flavor, makes for a truly satisfying treat.

Tips for Success

• Use Firm Apples: For the best texture, choose firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These apples will hold up well during baking and won’t turn mushy.
• Chill the Dough: If you prefer a thicker cookie, you can chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before scooping and baking. This will help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
• Add Your Favorite Mix-ins: Customize your cookies by adding a handful of raisins, chopped walnuts, or even chocolate chips. These additions complement the apples and oats nicely and provide extra flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overbake: These cookies continue to set as they cool, so make sure to pull them out of the oven when the edges are golden but the center is still soft. Overbaking can make them crunchy instead of chewy.

Why These Cookies Are So Great

Fresh Apple Oatmeal Cookies combine the best of both worlds—comfort and nutrition. The oats provide fiber and a hearty texture, while the fresh apples deliver natural sweetness and moisture. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, and these cookies are great for satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping things a little healthier.

These cookies are also a breeze to make, with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions. Whether you’re baking them for a family treat or sharing them with friends, these apple oatmeal cookies will quickly become a beloved recipe in your collection.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about the combination of apples and oats—especially when they’re baked into a soft, chewy cookie. Fresh Apple Oatmeal Cookies are an easy, delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall (or any time of year) in a warm, comforting bite. With simple ingredients, customization options, and the added benefit of being a little healthier than your average cookie, these are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

So the next time you’re in the mood for a homemade treat, grab a few apples, some oats, and get baking! Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you.