Simple and Delicious Cookies with Apple Pieces
When you want a cookie that’s both chewy and fresh, these Apple Piece Cookies are the answer. Soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and dotted with juicy apple chunks, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart. They’re easy to make, require only a handful of ingredients, and pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Think of them as the perfect cross between a classic sugar cookie and warm apple pie — but without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Easy to make: Just one bowl, simple ingredients, and no fancy equipment.
- Cozy flavor: Apples, cinnamon, and vanilla make them taste like fall.
- Soft & chewy: Fresh apple pieces keep the cookies moist.
- Kid-friendly: A great recipe for baking with little helpers.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup apple pieces (peeled, cored, and diced small — Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best)
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Fold in Apples
Gently stir in diced apple pieces (and nuts if using).
Step 5: Shape and Bake
- Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheet (about 1 ½ tablespoons per cookie).
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are set.
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Tips for Success
- Cut apples small: Tiny cubes bake more evenly and keep the cookies soft.
- Pat apples dry: If apples are too juicy, blot with a paper towel before mixing.
- Chill dough (optional): For thicker cookies, chill for 20 minutes before baking.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer.
Variations
- Apple Oatmeal Cookies: Add ½ cup rolled oats to the dough.
- Apple Caramel Cookies: Drizzle baked cookies with caramel sauce.
- Apple Spice Cookies: Add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for a spiced version.
- Glazed Cookies: Mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Why These Cookies Are a Must-Try
These cookies are simple to make but deliver big flavor. The sweetness of the dough, the tartness of the apples, and the warmth of cinnamon come together in every bite. They’re soft, chewy, and comforting — exactly the kind of treat you’ll want to make again and again.
Quick, cozy, and bursting with fresh apple flavor, these Simple and Delicious Cookies with Apple Pieces are proof that the best desserts don’t have to be complicated.
