Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful morning treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite, look no further than this Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Cookies Recipe. These cookies combine the cozy sweetness of cinnamon with the fresh, juicy burst of apple, baked into a wholesome cookie packed with oats and just the right hint of nutmeg. Not only do they taste amazing, but they’re also incredibly simple to make, perfect for busy mornings or anytime you crave a comforting snack that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these cookies truly shine, the ingredients are straightforward but essential. Each item contributes a vital note—whether it’s the oats adding texture, the cinnamon warming every bite, or the fresh apple bringing a juicy freshness that balances the flavors perfectly.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure needed to give each cookie a tender crumb.
• Old-fashioned rolled oats: Adds a hearty chew and a lovely rustic texture.
• Ground cinnamon: Infuses the cookies with that signature warm and aromatic spice.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a soft, pleasant bite.
• Ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle, nutty depth to enhance the cinnamon.
• Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates all the other flavors.
• Unsalted butter: Slightly melted for smooth blending and rich, buttery flavor.
• Brown sugar: Provides moistness and a caramel-like sweetness.
• Granulated sugar: Adds a touch of crispness to the cookie edges.
• Large egg: Binds everything together, bringing softness and stability.
• Pure vanilla extract: Lends a warm, sweet aroma that complements the spices perfectly.
• Finely diced apple: Fresh and peeled for bursts of juicy, natural sweetness in every bite.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and kosher salt in a medium bowl. This mix forms the flavorful and textured base, ensuring every cookie is packed with that iconic cinnamon-apple goodness.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the slightly melted unsalted butter together with both brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined, which takes about 2 minutes. This step lights up the cookie dough with sweetness and richness, the building blocks for perfect texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, add the egg and pure vanilla extract to your butter and sugar mixture. Beat them until everything is fully incorporated. The egg helps hold the cookie together while the vanilla adds that extra layer of comforting flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and beat just until everything comes together. Be careful not to overmix here, as overworking the dough can make the cookies tough instead of tender and chewy.

Step 5: Fold in Diced Apples

Gently stir in the finely diced, peeled apple pieces. This is the magic moment where the fresh, juicy pockets of apple get evenly distributed throughout the dough, promising delightful bursts of flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Scoop the Cookie Dough

Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. Using a two-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough into balls on the first baking sheet. If needed, use your hands to shape the balls, but avoid flattening them. Keeping their shape is key to the cookie’s perfect texture.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Pop the baking sheet with your cookie dough balls into the freezer for 10 minutes. This crucial step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, so they come out thick and soft, not flat and crispy.

Step 8: Preheat the Oven

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F. Getting the oven perfectly hot ensures an even bake that brings out the best in your Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Cookies Recipe.

Step 9: Arrange Cookies for Baking

Transfer the chilled dough balls from the freezer to the second prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give them room to expand as they bake.

Step 10: Bake Until Set

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the bottoms turn a lovely, light golden brown. You’ll know they are done when they smell irresistibly fragrant and still look soft in the center.

Step 11: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before removing or storing. This resting time lets them firm up to the ideal, chewy texture. Then, serve these delightful Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Cookies Recipe treasures and watch smiles light up.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

While these cookies are excellent on their own, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar over the top just after baking can add a subtle sparkle and boost the cinnamon flavor. For an extra special touch, a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey on the side can bring creaminess and sweetness to each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these breakfast cookies with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk for a simple and balanced breakfast. If you want to add a little extra, fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or berries perfectly complement the warm warmly spiced flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the cookies stacked with a smear of cream cheese or nut butter between them like mini sandwich cookies. Or layer broken cookie pieces over your morning oatmeal or smoothie bowl for a crunchy and flavorful topping that will brighten up your breakfast routine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store leftover Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Cookies Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewy for up to one week, making them a perfect grab-and-go option.

Freezing

If you want to keep these cookies longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. This way, they’ll keep their shape and texture, lasting up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating

To enjoy these cookies warm fresh out of the freezer, simply pop them in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes or microwave them briefly for 15-20 seconds. The warmth revives their soft, comforting texture and sweet aroma.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples in this recipe?

Absolutely! Granny Smith offers a tart balance, but sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work beautifully too, adding different levels of sweetness and texture to your cookies.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Cookies Recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make them gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Can I substitute butter with a healthier fat?

You can swap butter for coconut oil or a plant-based margarine, but keep in mind this might slightly change the flavor and texture, making the cookies a bit less rich and buttery.

How can I make the cookies less sweet?

Reduce the brown and granulated sugar slightly, or try using unsweetened apples. This will help tone down the sweetness without losing the cookie’s cozy flavor.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the recipe?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins would add wonderful texture and flavor, complementing the apple and cinnamon perfectly. Just fold them in during the final mixing step.

Final Thoughts

Making these Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Cookies Recipe is like giving yourself a delicious little gift to start the day. Warm spices, fresh apples, and wholesome oats come together to create a cookie that’s perfect any time you want a nourishing, joyful bite. I promise once you try these, they’ll become a cherished staple in your breakfast rotation—give it a go and experience that cozy cookie magic yourself!

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