Description
These Caramel Apple Cookies are the ultimate fall treat, offering a sweet and tart flavor combination with a gooey caramel center and soft, spiced dough. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The mix of fresh apples and caramel, with a hint of apple pie spice, makes each bite irresistible.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 12 tablespoons (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2½ teaspoons apple pie spice or ground cinnamon, divided
- 21 soft caramel candies (e.g., Kraft Baking Caramels)
- ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 large or 2 medium Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and diced
Instructions
Instructions:
- Prepare Butter and Sugar Coating: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat softened butter with ½ cup of granulated sugar and 1½ teaspoons of apple pie spice until light and fluffy. Set aside.
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Unwrap caramel candies.
- Make the Cookie Dough: Beat in brown sugar, remaining ¼ cup granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter mixture. Add the dry ingredients (flour, pudding mix, baking soda, and remaining spice) and mix until fully incorporated.
- Add Apples: Dice apples and fold them into the dough until just combined.
- Shape and Fill Cookies: Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough, place a caramel candy in the center, cover with more dough, and roll into a ball. Coat each dough ball in the sugar-spice mixture.
- Bake: Place dough balls on baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze dough balls on a sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating: Reheat cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
