If you’re searching for a comforting treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form, this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. These cookies bring together the wholesome goodness of oats and whole wheat flour with the cozy spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, while juicy fresh apple bits and sweet raisins add bursts of natural flavor. Soft, chewy, and lightly spiced, they’re perfect for breakfast on the go, a midday snack, or a sweet ending to any meal. Let me take you through how to make these little pockets of autumn joy step-by-step.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe lies in how simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create such a delightful flavor and satisfying texture. Every item has a purpose: oats add chewiness, spices bring warmth, and fresh apples keep things moist and fresh.
- Rolled oats: The base of our cookie, providing hearty chew and fiber.
- Whole wheat flour: Adds a nutty flavor and wholesome body.
- Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and stay tender.
- Baking powder: Gives a light lift for a soft crumb.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives warmth and depth.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, aromatic edge.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Natural sweetness and moisture without excess fat.
- Coconut oil, melted: A wonderful fat alternative lending richness and a hint of tropical flavor.
- Brown sugar, packed: For that deep caramel sweetness and chewy texture.
- Vanilla extract: Boosts the overall flavor profile with a sweet, floral note.
- Raisins: Juicy pops of natural sugar that contrast beautifully with spice.
- Diced fresh apple: Fresh, tender bites that make every mouthful exciting.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick and bake evenly. This simple prep sets the stage for perfectly formed cookies every time.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combining these ingredients first lets the spices and leavening spread evenly through your cookies for a balanced flavor and texture.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the applesauce, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined—this luscious mixture provides moisture and sweetness while keeping things light.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl and stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so stop as soon as everything comes together for a tender, soft bite.
Step 5: Fold in Raisins and Diced Apples
Now for the best part: fold in the raisins and diced fresh apples carefully. These add natural bursts of juiciness and sweetness that make these cookies uniquely delightful.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give room for spreading. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon—it helps them bake evenly and develop that classic cookie look.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma as those apple and cinnamon notes come alive.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time lets the cookies set just right so they hold together without losing their tender texture.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a lovely presentation, sprinkle a tiny pinch of ground cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar over the cooled cookies. If you’re feeling fancy, a small dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey can add a touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pair your cookies with a warm cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee to complement the cinnamon and apple flavors. A glass of cold milk or warm chai latte works beautifully as well, turning snack time into a cozy mini celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these cookies on a rustic wooden board alongside whole apples and cinnamon sticks to match their autumnal vibe. You can also pack them in small mason jars as gifts or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert that’s both simple and impressive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to 4 days, making them a perfect baked treat to enjoy throughout your busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies once cooled by placing them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They keep well for up to 3 months, so you’re always just moments away from a sweet bite of apple cinnamon goodness.
Reheating
To revive your cookies from the fridge or freezer, warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. The warmth will bring back that soft, chewy texture and intensify the inviting aroma.
FAQs
Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat?
Absolutely! Using all-purpose flour will make the cookies a bit lighter in texture and color, but the overall flavor will still be delightful. Just swap it in equal parts if that’s what you have on hand.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe isn’t gluten-free as written because whole wheat flour is used. However, you could try substituting a gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to make it safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
Can I replace raisins with another dried fruit?
Definitely. Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chopped dried apricots make wonderful alternatives and will add their own unique sweetness and texture without overpowering the apple and spice flavors.
How do I make the cookies less sweet?
If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar by a quarter or half. The applesauce and raisins still bring natural sweetness, so your cookies will stay satisfyingly tasty without being too sugary.
What if I don’t have coconut oil?
You can swap melted coconut oil for melted butter or another neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. Keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly depending on your choice but will still produce delicious cookies.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe has quickly earned a special spot in my recipe collection for their cozy flavor, wholesome ingredients, and effortless preparation. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, these cookies bring joy with every bite. I hope you feel inspired to try this recipe and share the warm, comforting taste that only homemade cookies can deliver. Happy baking!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a wholesome and delicious treat that combines the natural sweetness of apples and raisins with warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices. Made with whole wheat flour and rolled oats, these cookies are a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, featuring no added butter and using coconut oil and unsweetened applesauce for moisture. Baked to golden perfection, they offer a chewy texture with a soft center, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 3/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup diced fresh apple (peeled and finely chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir well to evenly distribute all dry components.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined, ensuring not to overmix to maintain a tender cookie texture.
- Add Raisins and Apple: Carefully fold in the raisins and the finely chopped, peeled fresh apple to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each cookie to help them bake evenly.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown, indicating they are cooked through.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to peel and finely chop the apple for even distribution and to avoid large wet chunks in the cookies.
- Using whole wheat flour adds fiber and a nuttier flavor but can be substituted with all-purpose flour if desired.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free rolled oats and oatmeal flour.
- Optional: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
