These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect fall treat—soft, chewy, and filled with the comforting flavors of apples, cinnamon, and a hint of cloves. Topped with a sweet maple glaze, these cookies are easy to make, and they’ll fill your home with an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or indulging solo, these cookies are sure to become a favorite!

Cozy Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies offer a warm, comforting vibe with each bite, combining the goodness of oatmeal, apples, and cinnamon. The addition of a maple glaze takes these cookies to another level of deliciousness. They’re perfect for fall, great for gifting, and easy enough for beginners to make. Plus, they stay soft and fresh for days, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the cookies
1 cup butter (room temperature; can use margarine for dairy-free)
1 cup brown sugar (can substitute with coconut sugar)
1 large egg (can substitute with 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water for vegan)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
1.5 cups all-purpose flour (can use gluten-free blend)
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (avoid instant oats)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda (ensure freshness)
0.5 teaspoon ground cloves (can omit if preferred)
0.5 teaspoon salt
1 cup apples (peeled and finely chopped; Granny Smith or Fuji recommended)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (prevents browning of apples)

For the maple glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk (any type of milk, including plant-based)
2 tablespoons maple syrup (adds rich flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add in the egg and vanilla extract (if using) and blend until thoroughly combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, cinnamon, baking soda, ground cloves (if using), and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until combined.
Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples that have been tossed in lemon juice to prevent browning.
Scoop Dough: Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for spreading between each cookie.
Bake: Bake for about 12-14 minutes or until the cookies are set and lightly golden around the edges.
Cool the Cookies: Remove from the oven and cool on the sheets for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Make the Maple Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and maple syrup for the glaze until smooth.
Glaze the Cookies: Drizzle the glaze over cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 24 cookies.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 37 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine and the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water).
Nuts: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Spice Adjustments: Adjust the amount of cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg for a more spiced flavor.

Storage/reheating

These cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For a warm, fresh cookie, briefly microwave them for a few seconds or enjoy them straight from the fridge!

FAQs

Can I use instant oats for this recipe?

It’s best to use old-fashioned rolled oats for these cookies, as instant oats will make them too soft and may change the texture.

How do I prevent the apples from browning?

Tossing the chopped apples with lemon juice will prevent them from browning while mixing them into the dough.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.

How do I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I freeze the baked cookies?

Yes, baked cookies can be frozen. Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What can I substitute for ground cloves?

If you prefer not to use cloves, you can omit them entirely or substitute with a small amount of nutmeg or allspice for a similar warm flavor.

Can I make these cookies without the glaze?

Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own without the glaze, but the maple glaze adds a wonderful sweetness and extra flavor if desired.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a more refined sugar alternative, or even use white sugar, but it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

Can I use a different type of apple?

While Granny Smith and Fuji apples are recommended, you can use other apples like Honeycrisp or Gala for a different flavor profile, though the texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when these cookies are done?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and firm in the center. If you gently press them with your finger, they should not leave an indentation.

Conclusion

These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a perfect fall treat, offering a combination of chewy oats, tender apples, and aromatic spices. The sweet maple glaze adds an irresistible finish to each cookie, making them a delightful snack or dessert. Whether for a cozy day at home or a holiday gathering, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.