Name: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option); 1 cup peeled and diced apples (Fuji or Honeycrisp recommended); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or plant-based butter for dairy-free); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 teaspoon water (optional, for adjusting icing consistency)

Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of homemade Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing. These soft and chewy cookies are loaded with fragrant cinnamon, tender apple pieces, and hearty oats, all topped with a luscious maple glaze that adds just the right touch of natural sweetness. Perfect for cozy afternoons, holiday treats, or anytime you crave a delightful snack, this recipe brings together the best of fall spices and wholesome ingredients in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Wholesome comfort: Packed with oats and fresh apples, these cookies offer a satisfying texture and natural sweetness.
Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples that combine to create a flavorful and inviting treat.
Perfect balance: The maple icing adds a subtle sweetness that complements the warm cinnamon and apple inside.
Great for all occasions: Whether a quick snack or a festive cookie exchange, these will impress every time.
Customizable: Easy to tweak based on your preferences or dietary needs without losing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating the perfect texture and taste, from the softness of the apples to the heartiness of the oats and the rich warmth of cinnamon.

Rolled oats: Provide a chewy base and boost fiber for a wholesome bite.
All-purpose flour: Gives the cookies their structure without weighing them down.
Apples (peeled and diced): Bring freshness and natural sweetness to every bite.
Cinnamon: Delivers warm spice and classic apple pie aroma.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and caramel-like depth to the cookie dough.
Unsalted butter: Ensures rich flavor and tender texture.
Maple syrup: The star of the icing, offering authentic sweet and woodsy notes.
Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, glossy icing that melts in your mouth.
Baking soda: Helps cookies rise just enough for the perfect chewiness.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth and sweetness.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies the spices.

Variations for Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to adapt it with your favorite mix-ins or alternative ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and extra flavor.
Dried fruits: Incorporate raisins or cranberries for chewy bursts throughout the cookie.
Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a friendly swap.
Vegan adaptation: Use a plant-based butter and flax egg replacement to make it dairy-free and egg-free.
Spice boost: Include ground nutmeg or ginger for a deeper flavor profile.
Extra apple flavor: Swap diced apples for small chunks of dried apple to intensify the taste and texture.

Irresistible Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by creaming the unsalted butter and brown sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Next, beat in vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the diced apples gently so they remain tender in the dough.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough into evenly sized balls and place them on the sheet, leaving space for spreading. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set but soft. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before icing.

Step 3: Prepare the Maple Icing

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and maple syrup until the mixture is smooth and spreadable. Adjust the texture by adding a teaspoon of water if needed for easier drizzling.

Step 4: Ice the Cookies

Once cookies have cooled, use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the maple icing over each one. Allow the icing to set at room temperature or pop the cookies in the fridge for 10 minutes to firm the glaze.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing

Use fresh apples: Choose crisp apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t overmix: Stir the dough just until combined to keep cookies tender, not dense.
Chill the dough: Refrigerate for 30 minutes if it feels too soft to handle, ensuring perfect shape.
Even-sized cookies: Use a cookie scoop for uniform baking and consistent cook times.
Let cookies cool fully: Icing melts easily if cookies are warm, so patience makes perfect presentation.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon or finely chopped toasted walnuts atop the maple icing for extra flavor and a pretty finish.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of chai or apple-spiced tea to complement the cinnamon and maple notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve on a rustic wooden board with a bowl of fresh apple slices and a small jar of maple syrup for a cozy, inviting display perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

Freeze the un-iced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw before icing with fresh maple glaze.

Reheating

Warm cookies slightly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to regain softness and enhance their freshly baked aroma before serving.

FAQs

Can I use applesauce instead of fresh apples?

Fresh diced apples are preferred for texture, but you can use applesauce combined with extra oats to add moisture if needed, though the cookie will be softer.

Is there a dairy-free way to make these cookies?

Yes, substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and make sure to use powdered sugar without added milk products for the icing.

How long does the maple icing stay fresh?

The maple icing will keep well at room temperature for 1 to 2 days but is best enjoyed fresh as it can become a bit sticky over time.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour works well without sacrificing taste or texture.

What is the best way to store iced cookies?

Keep iced cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to prevent the icing from melting or sticking.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the joy of biting into warm, soft Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing that capture the spirit of cozy, sweet comfort. This recipe is easy to make and sure to become a favorite for snack time, celebrations, or simply treating yourself. Give it a try and fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon, apples, and maple!

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing

Author: Kevin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Soft and chewy Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies topped with a luscious maple icing. These wholesome cookies combine fragrant cinnamon, tender diced apples, and hearty oats to create a comforting snack perfect for cozy afternoons or festive occasions. The subtle sweetness of the maple glaze perfectly complements the warm spices and fresh apple pieces, making each bite a delightful experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Cookie Dough: Cream the unsalted butter and brown sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Gently fold in the diced apples to maintain their tenderness within the dough.
Shape and Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion the dough into evenly sized balls, spacing them apart on the sheet to allow spreading. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until edges turn golden and centers are set but soft. Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before icing.
Prepare the Maple Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and maple syrup until smooth and spreadable. Add a teaspoon of water if needed to achieve a drizzling consistency.
Ice the Cookies: Once fully cooled, drizzle the maple icing over each cookie using a spoon or piping bag. Let the icing set at room temperature or refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm the glaze.

Notes

Use crisp apples such as Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
Stir the dough only until ingredients are combined to keep cookies tender.
If dough feels too soft, chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping.
Employ a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies to ensure uniform baking.
Allow cookies to cool completely before icing to prevent melting.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American