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Easy Back to School Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

apple cinnamon oatmeal cookies - featured image

Soft, chewy oatmeal cookies with diced fresh apples and cinnamon, perfect for quick snacks or lunchboxes. These cookies offer a comforting texture and flavor that feels like a warm morning hug.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups (135 g) rolled oats (old-fashioned)
  • 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour (can substitute almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened (can use dairy-free margarine)
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 medium fresh apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced (Granny Smith preferred)
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together rolled oats, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until smooth and glossy, about 1 minute.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; do not overmix.
  6. Gently fold in the diced apple and, if using, the chopped nuts.
  7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating pans halfway through, until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
  9. Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies. Use old-fashioned rolled oats for best texture. Pat diced apples dry if too moist to prevent soggy cookies. Let cookies cool on baking sheet before transferring to rack to maintain chewiness. Toast nuts lightly for extra flavor if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cinnamon oatmeal cookies, back to school snacks, easy oatmeal cookies, chewy cookies, healthy snacks, lunchbox cookies