Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a perfect blend of soft, cake-like texture with the cozy flavors of fall. These cookies are made with fresh apples, rolled oats, and the warm spices of cinnamon and cloves, all drizzled with a sweet maple glaze that takes them over the top. Whether you’re looking for an after-school snack, a cozy dessert, or a comforting treat with your coffee or tea, these cookies hit all the right notes. Quick to make with everyday ingredients, they’re the ideal addition to any baking repertoire.
Table of Contents
Why Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a Must-Bake
These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are more than just a delicious treat. They are a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making them a favorite for every season, especially fall. The apples add a slight sweetness, while the oats provide a satisfying chew. With a bit of cinnamon, ground cloves, and a drizzle of maple glaze, these cookies feel like a warm hug on a chilly day. They’re also quick to prepare—no chilling required—making them an easy recipe to whip up on short notice.
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
- Apples: The apples, diced into small cubes, give the cookies a fresh, fruity flavor and tender texture. Granny Smith apples work best for their tartness.
- Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the dough. Either salted or unsalted butter will work.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark, it sweetens the dough and adds a subtle molasses flavor.
- Egg: Acts as a binder and helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them a soft texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavors and adds a hint of warmth to the dough.
- Flour: Provides structure to the cookies. All-purpose flour works well in this recipe.
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats give the cookies texture and a slightly chewy bite, perfect for oatmeal cookies.
- Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread slightly as they bake.
- Ground Cinnamon: The primary spice, it brings a warming, familiar flavor to these cookies.
- Ground Cloves: Adds depth and complements the cinnamon, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the cookies.
- Lemon Juice: A little acidity to brighten the apple flavor, though it can be omitted if preferred.
- Maple Syrup: Used in the glaze, it provides a rich, sweet finish that perfectly complements the apple and cinnamon flavor.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you have dietary preferences or are missing some ingredients, don’t worry! Here are a few substitutions:
- Apples: Feel free to swap Granny Smith for Fuji or Golden Delicious if you prefer a sweeter apple.
- Oats: If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can be used, but they may result in a slightly different texture.
- Butter: Use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
- Egg: A flax egg or chia egg can replace the egg for a vegan option.
- Maple Syrup: Agave syrup or honey can be used in the glaze for a different sweet note.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour, oats, cinnamon, baking soda, cloves, and salt. Mix on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and lemon juice.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten the mounds gently with your fingers or a spoon.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the tops are set and the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the maple glaze over the top of each cookie. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
- Dice the apples small: Small apple pieces ensure they bake down to a tender texture in the cookies. Avoid using too much apple, as it can make the dough too wet and difficult to hold together.
- Use a cookie scoop: This makes portioning the dough quick and easy, and ensures even-sized cookies.
- Press the dough down slightly: Flatten the dough mounds gently before baking for a more even texture, or leave them as-is for puffier cookies.
- Bake a bit longer: These cookies contain fresh apples, which make them extra moist. They may need a couple of extra minutes compared to other cookies.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
While these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are delicious on their own, you can also pair them with other fall treats. Serve them alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or hot cocoa for a perfect afternoon snack. If you’re in the mood for a variation, consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or even butterscotch chips for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
For storage, keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze the dough for up to three months—just bake the frozen dough balls directly from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
The Health Benefits of Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
Oats are a heart-healthy whole grain, while apples provide fiber and antioxidants. The addition of cinnamon not only enhances flavor but also offers anti-inflammatory properties. These cookies are a sweet yet slightly wholesome treat that can be enjoyed guilt-free in moderation!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the warmth of fall right into your kitchen. With their soft, cake-like texture, warm apple and cinnamon flavors, and a hint of sweetness from the maple glaze, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking routine. Whether you’re preparing them for a cozy afternoon snack or sharing them with family and friends, they are perfect for any occasion. Plus, with easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be able to whip them up in no time. Enjoy the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon with these irresistible cookies!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of apple for these cookies?
Yes, while Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can substitute them with other apples like Fuji or Golden Delicious. These varieties will bring a sweeter flavor, but they will still work wonderfully in the recipe.
2. Can I make these cookies without the glaze?
Absolutely! The cookies are delicious on their own without the glaze. If you’re looking for a lighter version or want to skip the extra sweetness, simply leave out the glaze and enjoy the cookies as-is.
3. How should I store these Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them at room temperature before serving.
4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop out the dough and follow the baking instructions. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months, then bake from frozen.
More Relevant Recipes
- Raspberry Cinnamon Rolls with Lemon Glaze: These soft, pillowy cinnamon rolls feature a twist of raspberries and are topped with a tangy lemon glaze. The combination of fruity sweetness and warm cinnamon makes them a great pairing with the comforting flavors of Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies.
- Creamy Tuscan White Bean Soup: For a heartwarming fall meal, this creamy white bean soup offers a comforting and savory contrast to the sweetness of Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies. Packed with flavor and a rich texture, it’s perfect for pairing on a chilly evening.
- Cozy Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Bowl: If you’re craving more of that warm, cinnamon apple flavor, this oatmeal bowl is a great option. With oats, cinnamon, and tender apples, it’s a perfect breakfast or snack to complement the flavors found in the cookies.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies are soft, cake-like treats featuring the perfect combination of fresh apples, oats, cinnamon, and a drizzle of sweet maple glaze. They are a cozy, comforting snack ideal for fall, providing a delicious balance of sweetness and spice in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter at room temperature
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup peeled and finely chopped apple (1/4-inch cubes or smaller)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons milk
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Cream together the butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, cinnamon, baking soda, cloves, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until combined.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and lemon juice.
- Using a cookie scoop, place dough mounds about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten the dough slightly.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the tops are set and edges are lightly golden. Cool for 5-10 minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and maple syrup to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cookies once they have cooled.
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast or experiment with other varieties for a sweeter flavor.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.
- If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be used in the glaze.
- The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Simply scoop and bake as directed when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 121 kcal
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 86 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 17 mg