Apple Peanut Butter Cookies
Every time I bake Apple Peanut Butter Cookies, it feels like a little slice of autumn has just entered my kitchen. The aroma of fresh apples mingling with rich peanut butter takes me back to cozy afternoons spent with friends and family. These cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a celebration of the season. I remember the first time I made them—my kids were so excited to help. We peeled the apples together, their laughter filling the air as they took turns grating and mixing. It’s moments like these that make cooking so special, transforming simple ingredients into cherished memories.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 20 mins
20 mins
60 mins
Medium
150 kcal
3g g
Gluten-Free
7g g
Cutting Board, Grater, Oven, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Peeler, Baking Sheet
Why You’ll Love This Apple Peanut Butter Cookies
Wholesome Ingredients
What makes these Apple Peanut Butter Cookies truly stand out is the combination of wholesome ingredients. The creamy peanut butter, paired with the natural sweetness of fresh apples, results in a cookie that’s both delicious and satisfying. The use of unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness, letting the flavors of the apples shine through.
Perfectly Textured
Another reason you’ll fall in love with these cookies is their texture. They’re soft and chewy on the inside, with a slight crisp on the edges that makes each bite interesting. The addition of all-purpose flour and a dash of cinnamon gives them the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, evoking memories of grandma’s kitchen.
Customizable
These cookies are incredibly versatile. Whether you want to add a sprinkle of nuts for extra crunch or swap in different apple varieties for varied flavors, the possibilities are endless. It’s a great way to use up any leftover apples you have lying around after a fall outing to the orchard.
Kid-Friendly Fun
Making Apple Peanut Butter Cookies is a perfect activity for kids. They love getting involved in the preparation and can help with tasks like mixing and scooping the dough. It’s a fantastic opportunity to teach them about baking and have fun in the kitchen together!
Ideal for Sharing
These cookies are perfect for sharing, making them great for gatherings or as a sweet gift. Their unique flavor profile sparks conversations, and everyone will want the recipe. It’s a great way to show someone you care and share a piece of your home with them.
Seasonal Delight
Finally, the seasonal aspect of these cookies is what makes them a must-bake during fall. As the leaves change color and the weather cools, there’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm cookie fresh from the oven with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. It makes the transition into fall feel special and delightful.
Apple Peanut Butter Cookies Shopping List
When it comes to making Apple Peanut Butter Cookies, the choice of ingredients plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture. Each ingredient has its purpose, working harmoniously to create a delightful cookie. From the creamy peanut butter to the fresh apples, every component contributes to a cookie that’s both satisfying and delicious.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (such as Skippy) – The star of the show, providing a rich, nutty flavor and creaminess that binds the cookies together.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at softened room temperature – Adds moisture and richness to the cookies while allowing you to control the saltiness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to the chewy texture.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar – Enhances the cookies’ flavor with its molasses undertones, adding depth.
- 2 large eggs – Acts as a binder and helps the cookies rise while keeping them moist.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, sweet aroma that complements the other flavors.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the cookie, giving it structure and stability.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and achieve a light texture.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon – Adds warmth and enhances the flavor profile, making them feel cozy.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ cup peeled and grated apple (see Notes) – Adds moisture and a fresh, fruity flavor to the cookies.
- ½ cup peeled and ¼”-diced apple (see Notes) – Provides texture and bursts of apple flavor in every bite.
Recipe Directions for Apple Peanut Butter Cookies
Making Apple Peanut Butter Cookies is a delightful process that brings warmth to your kitchen. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have cookies that are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the delicious method of bringing these flavors together!
Preheat your oven to 375°F. This initial step is crucial as it ensures an even baking process. A well-preheated oven helps the cookies rise properly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color. Make sure your oven is fully heated before placing the cookies inside.
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape down the bowl 2 to 3 times during this process to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. The texture should be creamy and smooth, setting the perfect base for your cookies.
Add the creamy peanut butter to the mixture, mixing it in to fully incorporate. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. You’re aiming for a seamless blend where the peanut butter is fully integrated into the mixture, creating a rich and inviting batter.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and kosher salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is essential for consistent baking. Once combined, gradually add these dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. The dough should start to come together beautifully and feel thick and somewhat sticky.
Now, it’s time to fold in the grated and diced apple gently. Mix just until the apple is evenly dispersed throughout the dough. This step adds a burst of freshness and moisture to each cookie, making them extra special.
Using about 2 tablespoons of dough, drop rounded portions onto an ungreased baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart. I prefer to use a medium scoop for this, ensuring uniform sizes for even baking. You want to see the dough mounded slightly, indicating they will rise nicely in the oven.
Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is different. They should look set but still soft in the center. Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling time helps them firm up while retaining that chewy texture.
Substitutions and Tips
There are a few tips and substitutions that can make your experience with these Apple Peanut Butter Cookies even better. Here are some great ideas!
- Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps them soft and fresh, ready for snacking!
- Freezing: You can freeze the dough in advance. Just scoop out the cookies onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: These cookies pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes or as an after-school treat.
- Variations: Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to give them a unique twist!
- Apple varieties: Use firm and flavorful apples like Haralson, Honeycrisp, or Granny Smith for the best results.
- Mixing: Make sure not to overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added. This helps to keep the cookies soft and tender.
Pairing Suggestions for Apple Peanut Butter Cookies
When serving Apple Peanut Butter Cookies, consider these delightful pairings that enhance the experience:
- Warm Beverages: Serve these cookies with a hot cup of cider, tea, or coffee to complement their flavors beautifully.
- Seasonal Desserts: They make an excellent addition to a fall dessert platter alongside pumpkin pie or apple crisp.
- Picnic Treat: Pack these cookies for a picnic or outdoor gathering—they’re easy to transport and will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
- Fresh Fruit: Pair the cookies with a side of fresh apple slices or a mixed fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
- School Lunches: They’re great for school lunches, offering a sweet treat that kids will love while providing some nutrition!
- Special Occasions: These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, family reunions, or casual get-togethers, sharing love and warmth with every bite.
Things Worth Knowing
- Ingredient Quality: Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. The quality of your peanut butter and apples will make a significant difference in the final product.
- Mixing Technique: Creaming the butter and sugars properly helps to incorporate air, which leads to a lighter cookie. Don’t rush this step!
- Chilling Dough: Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, leading to a thicker cookie.
- Oven Calibration: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. An oven thermometer can help you get accurate readings, leading to perfectly baked cookies every time.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Apple Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter with the fresh, juicy taste of apples. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and happiness to your kitchen and home. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; the memories you create while baking are just as sweet as the cookies themselves.
Apple Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, with an electric mixer, cream butter, sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the bowl 2 to 3 times during this time.
- Add peanut butter and mix to incorporate. Then beat in eggs and vanilla.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Add dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
- Now fold in the grated and diced apple, just until evenly incorporated.
- Drop about 2 tablespoons of dough onto an ungreased baking sheet, about 2" apart. I like to use a medium scoop (mine is 1⅝" diameter), loaded just a bit generously.
- Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool on baking sheet for 2 minutes before removing to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
- Apple varieties: I recommend using a firm, flavorful baking apple for these cookies. Favorite varieties include Haralson, Honeycrisp, and Granny Smith.
- To grate apples: First, remove the peel on the apples. Then use the large holes on a box grater to create the grated apple. If you have any long strands of apple, use a knife to chop them up a bit.
