Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you love that warm, cozy feeling that a good cookie brings—and the Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe is basically the edible embodiment of fall vibes, no matter the season. I absolutely love how these cookies balance the sweet apples with the spicy cinnamon and nutmeg, while the oats provide a wonderful chewy texture that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

Whether you’re making these for a weekend treat, a lunchbox surprise, or even a holiday gathering, you’ll find that this recipe hits all the right notes. One thing I’ve discovered is that the maple icing really takes these cookies to the next level, adding just the perfect amount of sweetness and that silky finish. Give this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe a try—you’re going to love how easy and rewarding it is to bake!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to maximize flavor and texture. I always recommend grabbing fresh spices and a crisp apple for the best results.

• Unsweetened applesauce: Reducing this intensifies the apple flavor and prevents the cookie dough from becoming too wet.
• Old-fashioned rolled oats: These give the perfect chewy bite; don’t swap for quick oats or you’ll get a different texture.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure—make sure to spoon and level it for accuracy.
• Baking soda and salt: Essential for the right rise and flavor balance.
• Ground cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg: The warm spices that make these cookies feel like a hug in every bite.
• Unsalted butter: Softened, not melted, so you get that lovely creamy texture when creaming with sugar.
• Granulated and brown sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture and depth, and I prefer dark for that richer taste.
• Egg yolk: For extra richness without drying the cookie out.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash to round out all those flavors.
• Finely diced apples: Tiny pieces ensure the apples cook well and blend seamlessly into each cookie.
• Chopped walnuts: Optional, but I love the crunch and nuttiness they add.
• Maple icing ingredients: Unsalted butter, pure maple syrup, confectioners’ sugar, and a pinch of salt make a luscious glaze.

Variations

I love tweaking this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe depending on who I’m baking for and what I have on hand. It’s a flexible base, so don’t be shy about making it your own!

• Nut-free version: I’ve swapped the walnuts out for extra diced apples or even dried cranberries when some friends visit who are allergic to nuts.
• Spice it up or down: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and allspice to your taste—more warmth if you like it extra cozy, or skip nutmeg if you prefer something milder.
• Vegan adjustment: I’ve experimented with using a flax egg and vegan butter; it works with minor texture differences and keeps the flavors delightfully rich.
• Maple syrup glaze alternatives: Sometimes I swap maple syrup for honey or a lemon glaze for a bright twist, depending on the season.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the applesauce for maximum flavor

This is one of those tricks I picked up that really changes the game. Heat the unsweetened applesauce in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s reduced by half—that usually takes about 10 minutes. You’ll notice the flavor intensifies and the texture thickens, which helps keep the cookie dough just right. Just be patient and keep stirring occasionally so it doesn’t burn.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients and cream the butter

While your applesauce cools, whisk together your oats, flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg in a large bowl. This step ensures that the spices and leavening distribute evenly. Then, in your mixer, cream the softened butter with both sugars on medium speed for about 5 minutes until fluffy—but don’t rush this! It creates the ideal crumb and lighter bake.

Step 3: Combine wet and dry, fold in apples and nuts

Add the cooled reduced applesauce, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture and beat until combined. Scrape down the bowl to make sure everything’s incorporated evenly. Then add the dry ingredients and mix only until you don’t see flour—overmixing can make cookies tough. Finally, gently fold in the finely diced apples and walnuts; those little apple bits distributed through the dough are the best part, trust me.

Step 4: Scoop, bake, and cool

Scoop the dough using a medium cookie scoop to keep sizes consistent (about 1.5 tablespoons each) and space them 3 inches apart on lined baking sheets. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 14 to 16 minutes until the edges are lightly browned but the centers still look soft—they’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake! Let the cookies sit on the tray for 10 minutes before moving to a wire rack. This step helps prevent breakage and finishes the baking process perfectly.

Step 5: Whip up the signature maple icing

For the icing, melt the butter and maple syrup together in a small saucepan over low heat, whisking occasionally so it doesn’t scorch. Once melted, remove from heat and whisk in sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Taste and add a pinch of salt if your syrup isn’t quite sweet enough to balance it out. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set for about an hour. Oh, and don’t worry if it seems a little runny at first—it firms up wonderfully.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe

Garnishes

I like to keep garnishes simple but festive. A light sprinkle of cinnamon or some finely chopped toasted walnuts on top of the icing pairs beautifully, adding a bit of extra texture and aroma. For a holiday twist, a small drizzle of extra maple syrup or a dash of powdered sugar dusting really ups the presentation without complicating the flavors.

Side Dishes

These cookies go wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee—that’s my go-to combo when I need a little afternoon pick-me-up. If serving at brunch, a bowl of warm spiced apple cider or a creamy chai latte complements the maple and cinnamon notes perfectly. For something extra special, serve alongside sliced sharp cheddar or cream cheese for a sweet-and-savory pairing that surprises everyone.

Creative Ways to Present

I once layered these cookies in a glass trifle dish with vanilla yogurt and chopped apples for a casual dessert that looked gorgeous and tasted like the best apple pie ever. For gift-giving, I stack them with parchment paper between each cookie in a decorative tin—people love how the maple icing sets but stays soft. If you’re hosting a cookie swap, consider individual cellophane bags tied with cinnamon sticks and a handwritten note for a charming touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Storing these cookies correctly really preserves that fresh-baked quality. I keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. After that, I usually move them into the fridge where they last about a week and still taste great—just bring them back to room temp before serving to soften the maple icing.

Freezing

Freezing is a game changer for when you want to bake ahead or save extras. You can freeze the baked cookies with or without the maple icing for up to three months—just wrap them well in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. Alternatively, freezing unbaked dough balls is super convenient, and I pop them straight into the oven from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the cookies warm, I gently reheat them in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes. This refreshes the texture and softens the maple icing without melting it too much. Microwaving can work in a pinch but may make them too chewy or sticky, so my preference is always the oven method.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Icing Recipe—from the moment you reduce that applesauce to the final drizzle of maple glaze, it’s a journey of cozy, heartfelt baking. I’ve made these cookies countless times, and they never fail to bring a smile, whether for a casual snack or a festive occasion. So, go ahead and try this recipe like you’re making it for someone you love; I promise it’ll fill your kitchen with warmth and your taste buds with joy.

Print