Apple Crisp Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with a crispy, buttery cookie base. These cookies have a wonderful texture—soft and chewy in the center with just a little crunch around the edges. The bits of apple mixed with oats and a touch of brown sugar give them that classic apple crisp feel, but in a fun, handheld form.
I love making these cookies when the air starts to feel a little crisp because they remind me of cozy afternoons spent baking in the kitchen. A tip I’ve learned is to use fresh apples for the best flavor and to make sure they’re chopped small so each bite has a little burst of apple goodness. They’re easy to mix up and make the whole house smell like fall, which is always a win in my book.
These cookies are perfect with a cup of tea or a glass of milk, and they’re great for sharing with friends and family. I like to pack them up in little bags to bring to gatherings or just keep them on the counter for a sweet snack any time. If you ask me, apple crisp in cookie form is one of the best things to bake when you want something comforting and a little bit special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Fresh, finely chopped apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp bring natural sweetness and moisture. If you want, try using sautéed apples for a softer texture or diced dried apples for a chewier bite.
Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats add texture and a hearty feel. You can swap for quick oats, but the texture will be softer and less defined.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg give warm flavor that reminds you of apple crisp. If you don’t have nutmeg, ground allspice works well as a substitute.
Butter & Sugars: Using softened unsalted butter helps with even mixing and a tender cookie. For sugars, brown sugar adds moisture and depth, but you can use all granulated sugar if needed.
White chocolate & Nuts (Optional): White chocolate gives a sweet contrast and nuts add crunch. Both can be left out if you prefer a simpler cookie.
How Do You Get the Perfect Chewy Yet Crisp Texture?
The secret is balancing moisture from apples with the dry ingredients and careful baking:
- Finely chop apples small to disperse moisture evenly and avoid soggy spots.
- Beat butter and sugars until fluffy to incorporate air, which gives a tender bite.
- Don’t overmix once you add the flour to keep cookies tender, not dense.
- Bake just until edges are golden brown. Overbaking dries them out; underbaking makes them too soft.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet first—they firm up as they cool but remain chewy inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I use separate bowls to combine dry and wet ingredients easily.
- Electric mixer – makes creaming the butter and sugars quick and smooth.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy with the ingredients.
- Baking sheet – a standard size, lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Silicone spatula – great for folding in the oats, apples, and extras without breaking the dough apart.
- Wire rack – for cooling the cookies properly after baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap white chocolate chips for caramel bits for a richer, gooey sweetness.
- Add a teaspoon of ginger or allspice to enhance the warm spice flavor.
- Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity burst.
- Replace nuts with flax seeds or chia for added crunch and nutrition without nuts.
How to Make Apple Crisp Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup peeled and finely chopped apple (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), optional
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips or chunks (optional for added sweetness and texture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 12 to 15 minutes to bake. Allow another 5 minutes for cooling. In total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes from start to finish before enjoying delicious apple crisp cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. This ensures your spices and leavening are evenly distributed.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy—this makes the cookies tender.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla:
Beat the egg and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture until everything combines well.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to the wet ingredients. Stir just until combined to keep the cookies tender and chewy.
6. Add Oats, Apples, and Extras:
Stir in the rolled oats, finely chopped apples, and nuts if you’re using them. Fold in white chocolate chips or chunks if desired for a sweet twist.
7. Shape and Bake:
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread. Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the cookies are set.
8. Cool and Enjoy:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature with your favorite drink!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for These Cookies?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the dough to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the cookie texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Apple Crisp Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed bag for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before eating.
Can I Substitute the Rolled Oats?
Quick oats can work but will create a softer texture. Avoid instant oats as they may become too mushy in the cookies.
Is It Okay to Leave Out Nuts or White Chocolate?
Absolutely! The nuts and white chocolate add extra flavor and texture but are optional. You can omit them without compromising the core apple crisp cookie flavor.