Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup caramelized applesauce (see instructions to caramelize)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
Add-ins
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Caramelize the Applesauce: Start by gently cooking 1 cup of applesauce over medium heat, stirring frequently until it thickens and turns a deep amber color, developing rich caramel flavors that will infuse into the cookie dough.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well before folding in the caramelized applesauce.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and optional cinnamon. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Carefully fold in the chocolate chips to ensure even distribution without melting the chocolate during mixing.
- Bake to Perfection: Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers look set but still soft. Let cookies cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Choose high-quality applesauce for more pronounced caramel notes.
- Do not overbake; remove cookies just before edges turn fully brown to keep them soft inside.
- Use room temperature ingredients for smooth blending and better texture.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to prevent spreading and deepen flavors.
- Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform cookie size and even baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: caramelized applesauce cookies, chocolate chip cookies, caramel applesauce dessert, soft and crispy cookies, autumn cookies