These Soft Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful and wholesome way to enjoy the comforting flavors of apple pie. You’ll love how easy they are to make, offering a satisfyingly chewy texture and a healthy apple dessert idea perfect for any time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; quick oats can make them too soft.
- Apples: Any crisp apple like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp works well.
- Sweetener: Granulated sugar is classic, but you can use brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is standard. For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Spices: Cinnamon is essential, but a pinch of nutmeg or allspice enhances the apple pie flavor.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups finely diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
Spices:
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180 calories
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, electric mixer (optional), baking sheets, parchment paper, cooling rack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cream the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. You’re creating the base for your healthy apple dessert idea. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). This ensures the spices and leavening are evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough.
3. Mix Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. You want a smooth, cohesive dough.
4. Fold in Oats and Apples
Stir in the rolled oats and the finely diced apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The apples are what give these cookies their signature apple pie flavor, making them a true healthy apple dessert idea.
5. Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)
Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and allows the flavors to meld.
6. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
7. Scoop and Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set. These make a wonderful healthy apple dessert idea.
8. Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these soft, chewy Soft Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after cooling.
- Fold in dried cranberries or raisins along with the fresh apples.
- Sprinkle a little coarse sugar on top before baking for a sparkling finish.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Soft Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
You can, but quick oats will result in a softer cookie with less texture. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier bite.
Do you need to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is optional. The skin adds a bit of texture and nutrients, but many prefer them peeled for a smoother cookie.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
This can happen if your butter was too warm, your oven isn’t hot enough, or you didn’t chill the dough. Ensure your butter is softened, not melted.
Can you make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days before baking.
What kind of apples are best for these cookies?
Crisp, firm apples like Fuji, Gala, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith work best as they hold their shape and flavor during baking, contributing to a great healthy apple dessert idea.
Are these cookies good for you?
Compared to many traditional desserts, the inclusion of oats and fresh apples makes these a more wholesome option, fitting well into healthy apple dessert ideas.
