Candy Apple Cookie Recipe – A Sweet Treat for All Ages

Candy Apple Cookie Recipe

Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that tastes just like a candy apple.

These Candy Apple Cookies combine the sweet, tart flavor of apples with a hint of cinnamon and a drizzle of caramel.

They’re perfect for sharing with family and friends, and the simple instructions make them a fun baking project for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened​
  • 1 cup granulated sugar​
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar​
  • 2 large eggs​
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract​
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour​
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda​
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt​
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 cups finely diced Granny Smith apples (about 2 medium apples)​
  • 1 cup caramel bits or chopped soft caramel candies​
  • 16 ounces red candy melts for coating (optional)​

Step By Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Peel and dice the apples into small pieces. In a pan over medium heat, melt one tablespoon of butter, then add the diced apples, one tablespoon of sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon.

Cook for about five minutes until the apples soften. Remove from heat and let them cool completely.

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Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and smooth.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the vanilla extract.

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Step 3: Combine Everything

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Gently fold in the cooled apples and caramel bits until evenly distributed.

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Step 4: Chill and Preheat

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.

This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

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Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.

Bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Step 6: Add Candy Coating (Optional)

For a candy apple look, melt the red candy melts according to the package instructions.

Dip half of each cooled cookie into the melted candy coating and place them on wax paper to set.

Tips for Success

Choosing the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe because their tartness balances the sweetness of the cookies, and they hold their shape well during baking.​

Measuring Flour Accurately: To ensure your cookies have the right texture, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid packing the flour, as this can make the cookies dense.​

Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step. It helps control the spread of the cookies and enhances their flavor.​

Storing the Cookies: Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’ve added the candy coating, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.​

Fun Variations

Add Nuts: For extra crunch, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts along with the apples and caramel bits.​

Spice It Up: If you enjoy warm spices, add a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice to the dry ingredients for a more complex flavor.​

Drizzle with Caramel: Instead of dipping the cookies in candy melts, drizzle them with warm caramel sauce for a gooey finish.​

Apple Candy Cookie Recipe

Conclusion

These Candy Apple Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat, bringing the flavors of a carnival favorite into your kitchen.

With their soft texture, sweet apple bits, and optional candy coating, they’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Happy baking!