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Caramel Apple Cookies

These Caramel Apple Cookies combine the cozy flavors of fall — spiced apple cider, buttery dough, and gooey caramel centers — into one irresistible treat. Soft, chewy, and bursting with warm cinnamon and apple aroma, they’re the perfect cookies for cozy afternoons, autumn gatherings, or a sweet homemade gift.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 24

Ingredients
  

  • 2 sticks butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 box 10 packets Spiced Apple Cider Instant Drink Mix (such as Alpine)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • Caramel candies soft, unwrapped

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
  • Add the apple cider drink mix packets and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Add the Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and cinnamon.
  • Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
  • Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes — this helps it firm up for easier shaping.

Shape the Cookies

  • Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand.
  • Place one soft caramel candy in the center and roll the dough around it, sealing the edges completely.
  • Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart.

Bake

  • Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  • Serve warm for a gooey caramel center, or let them cool completely for a chewy texture.

Notes

  • Use soft caramel candies like Werther’s Soft Caramels or Kraft Caramel Bits for easy melting.
  • Want extra flavor? Drizzle with melted caramel or a light glaze after cooling.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days — reheat slightly before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of fall spice.