Why You’ll Love Apple Crisp Cookies Recipe
You’ll love this Apple Crisp Cookies recipe because it combines the best of two favorites: soft, chewy cookies and the delightful crunch of apple crisp topping. The cookies are packed with real apple pieces and cinnamon, offering cozy flavors that remind you of homemade apple pie. Plus, the crisp topping adds a perfect texture contrast, making every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cookies:
-
All-purpose flour
-
Baking soda
-
Ground cinnamon
-
Ground nutmeg
-
Salt
-
Unsalted butter
-
Granulated sugar
-
Brown sugar
-
Egg
-
Vanilla extract
-
Fresh apples (peeled and finely chopped)
For the Crisp Topping:
-
All-purpose flour
-
Brown sugar
-
Rolled oats
-
Ground cinnamon
-
Unsalted butter (cold, cut into small pieces)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
-
In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
-
Prepare the crisp topping by combining flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
-
Drop cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets. Sprinkle a generous amount of crisp topping over each cookie.
-
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden and the topping is crisp. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields about 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 35 minutes
Variations
-
Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for extra crunch.
-
Substitute dried cranberries or raisins for some of the apple for a twist in flavor.
-
Use a mix of spices like cloves or allspice along with cinnamon for a more complex spice profile.
-
Make mini cookie sandwiches with a layer of cream cheese frosting or caramel sauce.
Storage/Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze cookies in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat briefly in a microwave or oven if you prefer them warm, but avoid overheating to keep the crisp topping intact.
FAQs
Can I use canned apples instead of fresh?
Fresh apples are best for texture, but you can use drained canned apples if needed—just reduce added moisture elsewhere.
What type of apples work best?
Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold up well and balance sweetness.
How do I keep the topping crisp after baking?
Make sure to use cold butter in the topping and don’t overbake the cookies. Store them in a container that allows slight airflow or add a paper towel to absorb moisture.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I omit the nuts if I’m allergic?
Absolutely, the recipe works well without nuts.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
Use plant-based butter and a flax egg substitute instead of the egg.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just double all ingredients and bake on multiple sheets as needed.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
Make sure the dough is chilled before baking and avoid too much butter or sugar.
Can I add caramel chips or chocolate chips?
Yes, adding caramel or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and add extra sweetness.
Conclusion
Apple Crisp Cookies are a comforting, flavorful treat that perfectly captures the warmth of fall in every bite. With tender apple-studded dough and a crunchy topping, these cookies are an ideal snack or dessert to share with family and friends. Easy to make and full of delicious texture, they’re sure to become a favorite for all seasons.
Apple Crisp Cookies
Enjoy the warm flavors of fall with these delicious Apple Crisp Cookies, featuring tender apple chunks and a cinnamon-spiced crisp topping. Perfect as a cozy snack or dessert, these cookies bring the classic apple crisp taste in a convenient handheld treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups peeled and finely chopped apples (about 1 large apple)
- For the Crisp Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the crisp topping. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Drop cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over each cookie, gently pressing down to adhere.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are golden and crisp topping is set.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- For extra crunch, toast the oats before mixing them into the crisp topping.
