What kind of apples work best in these cookies?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady work wonderfully in these cookies. They hold their shape during baking while providing a nice contrast to the sweet dough. Avoid softer varieties like McIntosh that can turn mushy during baking.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! These cookies actually develop even better flavor after a day. You can bake them 1-2 days ahead and store in an airtight container at room temperature. For best results, add the glaze the day you plan to serve them to keep it looking fresh.

My dough seems very sticky after adding the apples. Is this normal?

Yes, the moisture from the apples can make the dough slightly stickier than traditional cookie dough. If it's too difficult to work with, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before scooping, or use a cookie scoop dipped occasionally in cold water to help release the dough.

Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

While fresh apples provide the best texture and flavor, you can use well-drained canned apple pie filling in a pinch. Chop the apple pieces smaller and expect a slightly different texture in the final cookie. You might also want to reduce the sugar slightly since pie filling is already sweetened.

Apple Cookies Recipe - Evelynseats

Name: Apple Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups brown sugar; 2 eggs; 1 cup apples, chopped; 1 cup nuts, chopped (such as walnuts or pecans); 2/3 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon milk or water

This delicious Apple Cookies recipe transforms humble ingredients into soft, spiced treats that taste like autumn in every bite. With chunks of fresh apple and crunchy nuts folded into a warmly spiced dough, these cookies strike the perfect balance between comfort and indulgence. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re the ideal treat for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: These cookies come together in minutes and bake in just 10-12 minutes – perfect for satisfying sudden sweet cravings!
Wonderfully Seasonal: The combination of apples and warm spices creates the quintessential fall flavor that works year-round.
Versatile: Easy to customize with different apple varieties, nuts, or even add-ins like dried cranberries or white chocolate chips.
Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies disappear fast at potlucks, bake sales, or family gatherings – they have that irresistible homemade charm everyone loves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All-purpose flour: Forms the base of our cookies, providing structure while keeping them tender.
Baking soda: The leavening agent that gives these cookies their perfect rise and tender texture.
Spices (cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg): This magical trio creates that warm, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with apples. The cinnamon leads while cloves and nutmeg provide beautiful depth.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness – don’t skip it!
Unsalted butter: Use softened butter for the best creaming results. It creates a wonderful richness and tender crumb.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a delicious caramel-like flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
Eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness and structure.
Apples: The star ingredient! Choose firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor contrast.
Nuts: Add wonderful crunch and nutty flavor. Walnuts or pecans work best, but any favorite will do.
Powdered sugar and milk: For a simple glaze that adds sweetness and visual appeal.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

These cookies are wonderfully adaptable! Here are some delicious ways to make them your own:

Caramel Apple: Drizzle with caramel sauce instead of the glaze for an indulgent twist
Extra Spice: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to intensify the spice profile
Fruit Medley: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins along with the apples for additional texture
Chocolate Lover’s: Add white chocolate or cinnamon chips to the dough for extra sweetness
Gluten-Free: Substitute a quality gluten-free flour blend (just make sure it contains xanthan gum)
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and egg replacer with excellent results

How to Make Apple Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Having everything measured and ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This ensures the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a stand mixer or large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the brown sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air into the dough, creating that perfect cookie texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The mixture should look smooth and well-incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can result in tough cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Gently fold in the chopped apples and nuts with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape and Bake

Using a small cookie scoop or teaspoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown.

Step 8: Make the Glaze

While cookies are cooling, mix powdered sugar with just enough milk or water to create a drizzling consistency. Drizzle over cooled cookies for a beautiful finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Apple Selection: Choose firm apples that hold their shape when baked. Dice them into small, consistent pieces for even distribution.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best incorporation and texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to ensure tender, soft cookies.
Consistent Sizing: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookies that will bake evenly.
Watch Carefully: These cookies can go from perfectly golden to overdone quickly, so keep an eye on them toward the end of baking time.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This prevents breakage while they’re still warm and soft.n.

How to Serve

These versatile apple cookies shine in so many settings:

Everyday Enjoyment

Serve with a glass of cold milk, hot coffee, or spiced chai tea for the perfect afternoon treat.

Special Occasions

Stack them on a beautiful platter for holiday gatherings. They make a lovely alternative to traditional Christmas cookies.

Warm Dessert

For extra indulgence, warm a cookie slightly and top with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Gift-Giving

Package these cookies in decorative tins or boxes for neighborly gifts, teacher appreciation, or holiday sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The moisture from the apples helps them stay wonderfully soft.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 3 months.

Make-Ahead Options

The cookie dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. You can also freeze portioned cookie dough balls for up to 3 months – just add 1-2 minutes to the baking time when baking from frozen.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked taste, warm cookies in a 300°F oven for 3-4 minutes or microwave individual cookies for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

What kind of apples work best in these cookies?

Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady work wonderfully in these cookies. They hold their shape during baking while providing a nice contrast to the sweet dough. Avoid softer varieties like McIntosh that can turn mushy during baking.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! These cookies actually develop even better flavor after a day. You can bake them 1-2 days ahead and store in an airtight container at room temperature. For best results, add the glaze the day you plan to serve them to keep it looking fresh.
My dough seems very sticky after adding the apples. Is this normal?

Yes, the moisture from the apples can make the dough slightly stickier than traditional cookie dough. If it’s too difficult to work with, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before scooping, or use a cookie scoop dipped occasionally in cold water to help release the dough.
Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

While fresh apples provide the best texture and flavor, you can use well-drained canned apple pie filling in a pinch. Chop the apple pieces smaller and expect a slightly different texture in the final cookie. You might also want to reduce the sugar slightly since pie filling is already sweetened.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cookies bring together the best elements of comfort baking – they’re simple, satisfying, and filled with seasonal flavor. There’s something truly special about the way the warm spices mingle with tender apple pieces and crunchy nuts in every bite. Whether you’re baking them on a quiet afternoon or sharing them with loved ones, they’re sure to bring smiles and second helpings. Give this recipe a try – your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!