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Caramel Apple Cookies

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These Caramel Apple Cookies are a cozy fall treat featuring gooey caramel centers wrapped in tender, apple-spiced dough. Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or a comforting dessert on a chilly day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup peeled, diced tart apple (Granny Smith recommended)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 20 soft caramel candies (Werther’s Soft Caramels recommended)
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • Coarse sea salt (optional, for sprinkling on top)

Instructions

  1. Peel and dice the apple into small, 1/4-inch cubes. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  2. Unwrap the caramel candies and set aside.
  3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  6. Beat in eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides as needed. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  7. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  8. Gently fold in diced apples and nuts (if using).
  9. Use a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tbsp) to portion dough. Flatten each ball slightly, press a caramel candy into the center, and wrap the dough around it, sealing completely.
  10. Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  11. Bake for 12-14 minutes, until edges are golden and centers look just set. Do not overbake.
  12. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes (caramel centers will be hot!), then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.
  13. Optional: Sprinkle with coarse sea salt while still warm for extra flavor.

Notes

Seal the dough well around the caramel to prevent leaks. Chill dough for 15 minutes if sticky. Use soft caramel candies for best gooey centers. For gluten-free or dairy-free adaptations, substitute flour and butter as needed. Cookies are best served warm and can be frozen for up to a month.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel apple cookies, fall dessert, gooey caramel, apple cookies, autumn baking, easy cookies, potluck treats, bake sale cookies

Find it online: https://jodierecipes.com/caramel-apple-cookies-recipe-easy-fall-treats-with-gooey-centers/