Name: Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups rolled oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup brown sugar, packed; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup peeled and finely diced apple (about 1 medium apple)

Hey y'all! If you're searching for a cozy treat that's bursting with comforting flavors, this Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is your new go-to. Packed with tender apple bits and warm spices, these chewy cookies make fall gatherings, lunchbox surprises, or casual snacking extra special. The oats add hearty texture, while juicy apples and brown sugar create an irresistible bite every time. Let's get baking!

Why You'll Love This Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Hearty & Chewy Texture: The combination of oats and apples delivers perfect softness with each bite.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish—ideal for satisfying spontaneous cookie cravings.
Warm, Cozy Flavors: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring classic autumn vibes to your kitchen all year long.
Family-Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, making them perfect for potlucks or family treats.
Simple Pantry Ingredients: No fancy items needed—just simple staples you already have at home.

Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe Ingredients

1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups (135g) old-fashioned rolled oats
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
¼ cup (50g) white granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 medium apple (about 1 cup), peeled, cored, and finely diced
½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

How to Make Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe: Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Egg & Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 6: Fold in Apples & Nuts

Using a spatula, gently fold in the finely diced apple and optional nuts until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Portion & Bake

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each about 2 inches apart. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and centers still look slightly soft.

Step 8: Cool & Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade Apple Oatmeal Cookies with a glass of milk or hot tea!

Notes for Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe Success

For best results, use freshly diced apples and avoid overmixing the dough for a tender crumb.
If you prefer a chunkier texture, choose old-fashioned rolled oats over quick oats (learn more about oats for baking).
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft.

Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe Variations

Gluten-Free: Swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free oats.
Apple Raisin: Fold in ⅓ cup raisins for a fruity twist.
Caramel Apple: Drizzle the cooled cookies with melted caramel or add caramel bits to the dough.

Required Equipment for Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls (medium & large)
Electric mixer (hand or stand)
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Wire rack for cooling

Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe: Storage Instructions and Shelf Life

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months, layering parchment between each row. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Pair with a cold glass of milk, spiced chai, or hot apple cider.
Serve as an after-school snack or pack in lunchboxes for a sweet treat.
Top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe Pro Tips

Use a cookie scoop for even sizes and consistent baking. Read about the best cookie scoops here.
Dry your diced apple pieces with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker, bakery-style cookies (optional but recommended).

Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe FAQ

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats? Yes, but the texture will be a bit softer. For chewier cookies, go with old-fashioned oats.
What kind of apple is best? Firm, tart-sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith hold up well and add great flavor (learn more about apple varieties).
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! Store the dough, tightly covered, in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking; allow it to come to room temperature for easier scooping.

Now you’re set to master this Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe—happy baking and enjoy every bite!

Apple Oatmeal Cookies Recipe