Fresh Apple Oatmeal Cookies

These Fresh Apple Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect balance of warm spices, nutty crunch, and juicy apple bits. With a hearty texture from the oats and a touch of sweetness from the fresh apples, these cookies are great for a cozy snack, a quick breakfast treat, or even as a dessert option for apple lovers.

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Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup white sugar
• ½ cup shortening
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup diced apple, peeled

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Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: About 24 cookies

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Shortening and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the shortening and white sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in Extras: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, rolled oats, and diced apple until evenly distributed.
7. Scoop and Shape: Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Toast the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts beforehand enhances their nutty flavor and adds extra crunch.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
• Adjust Baking Time: If you prefer softer cookies, bake for the lower end of the time range; for crispier edges, bake a little longer.
• Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

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Enjoy the comforting aroma and delicious taste of these Fresh Apple Oatmeal Cookies—a treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall and the joy of homemade baking!