Apple Pie Breakfast Cookies

These Apple Pie Breakfast Cookies bring the warm flavors of a classic dessert into a convenient, grab-and-go morning treat. Perfect for busy mornings, they balance wholesome ingredients and that cozy apple pie spice profile in a nourishing cookie.

I first baked these cookies on a chilly fall morning, and since then they have become a staple in my family’s breakfast rotation. The kids love them packed in their lunchboxes as well.

Ingredients

• One cup old fashioned rolled oats: adds hearty texture and fiber, choose whole oats for best chew
• Three quarters cup all purpose or whole wheat flour: whole wheat provides nuttier flavor and extra nutrients
• One and a half teaspoons cinnamon: essential for that warm apple pie characteristic, use fresh ground for maximum aroma
• Half teaspoon nutmeg: brings a subtle nutty warmth, freshly grated is best
• One eighth teaspoon ground cloves: gives a hint of depth ground cloves should be used sparingly
• Quarter teaspoon salt: balances sweetness and highlights flavors
• One teaspoon baking powder: helps cookies rise for a soft texture
• Two tablespoons flaxseed optional: boosts omega-3s and binds moisture, choose freshly ground for better digestion
• One third cup pure maple syrup: natural sweetener with complex flavor, opt for grade A amber for richer taste
• Half cup unsweetened applesauce: moistens dough and adds natural sweetness, homemade works beautifully
• Three tablespoons melted unsalted butter: adds richness and a tender crumb, unsalted allows control over salt level
• One egg: binds ingredients for structure and moisture
• One teaspoon vanilla extract: enhances all the warm spices and sweetness
• One cup diced apple: fresh and crisp for bursts of flavor, choose a firm variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp

Instructions

Sift and Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, salt, baking powder, and optionally flaxseed until evenly combined. This ensures the spices and leavening are distributed well.

Whisk Together Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, use a whisk to blend the maple syrup, applesauce, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.

Combine Wet and Dry:

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon or spatula just until the flour disappears and the dough begins to come together. Do not over mix to keep the cookies tender.

Fold in Apples:

Add the diced apple pieces and fold them in with care to distribute evenly without breaking them down.

Prepare Baking Sheet and Shape Cookies:

Line a baking sheet with parchment or a silicone mat. Use a spoon or scoop to drop cookie dough mounds, then flatten them gently to your preferred thickness since these cookies will not spread much as they bake.

Bake and Cool:

Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes until the edges just begin to golden but the centers remain soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

I love the way diced apples punctuate every bite with sweetness and a slight crunch. These cookies always remind me of early autumn mornings when my kitchen smelled like cinnamon and fresh apples. It’s a cozy moment my whole family looks forward to.

Storage Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully; separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking and thaw at room temperature before eating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar if desired though the flavor may be slightly different. Use mashed ripe banana instead of applesauce for a twist on moisture and sweetness. Omit flaxseed if you prefer, or replace with chia seeds for similar benefits. Try oat flour in place of all-purpose for a gluten-free version but add an extra egg for structure.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a nutritious breakfast. Serve with yogurt and fresh fruit to complete the meal. These cookies also make a delightful snack anytime during the day.

These cookies combine convenience with wholesome flavor, making them perfect for busy mornings and cozy family moments.

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I substitute whole wheat flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can replace all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.

→ What is the role of flaxseed in this dish?

Flaxseed adds a subtle nutty taste and extra fiber, enhancing texture and nutrition.

→ How can I store these cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Are these cookies suitable for a maple syrup substitute?

Honey or agave nectar can be used instead, though maple syrup imparts a unique richness.

→ Can I omit the butter for a dairy-free version?

Using coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative works well to keep a rich texture.