A delicious blend of sweet, chewy, and hearty textures, these Apple Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are one of my favorite healthy treats. The natural sweetness from apples and maple syrup, combined with creamy peanut butter and wholesome oats, creates a satisfying cookie that's perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup rolled oats
½ cup whole wheat flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup peanut butter
¼ cup maple syrup or honey
¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
½ cup finely chopped apple (about 1 small apple)
¼ cup raisins or chopped walnuts (optional)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, I combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, I mix the peanut butter, maple syrup (or honey), applesauce, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
I stir in the chopped apple and any optional add-ins like raisins or walnuts.
Gradually, I add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until everything is well incorporated.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, I drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one.
I gently flatten each cookie with a fork or my fingers.
I bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes until the edges are just golden.
After baking, I let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 cookies.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Calories: approximately 120 kcal per cookie
Variations
I sometimes switch up the mix-ins by using dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or dark chocolate chips instead of raisins or walnuts. For a spicier version, I add a dash of nutmeg or ginger. If I want a vegan cookie, I use maple syrup instead of honey.
Storage/Reheating
Once cooled, I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To enjoy warm cookies, I reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, I can use quick oats, but I prefer rolled oats for their chewier texture.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
They can be if I use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour substitute.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely. I freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. They last up to 3 months. I just thaw at room temperature or reheat slightly before eating.
What type of apples work best?
I like using firm apples like Fuji or Granny Smith—they hold up well during baking and add a nice tart-sweet balance.
Can I make these nut-free?
Yes, I substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
Conclusion
These Apple Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are one of my go-to recipes when I want something wholesome and sweet. They’re easy to make, full of nutritious ingredients, and endlessly customizable. Whether I need a quick snack or a treat to share, these cookies always hit the spot.
Recipe:

Apple Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delicious blend of sweet, chewy, and hearty textures, these Apple Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are a healthy treat made with natural ingredients like apples, peanut butter, and oats. Perfect for a quick snack or sharing with friends.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups rolled oats
½ cup whole wheat flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup peanut butter
¼ cup maple syrup or honey
¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
1 small apple, finely chopped
¼ cup raisins or chopped walnuts (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix peanut butter, maple syrup (or honey), applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in chopped apple and any optional add-ins like raisins or walnuts.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until well incorporated.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each.
- Gently flatten each cookie with a fork or fingers.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For longer storage, freeze in a single layer and transfer to a bag for up to 3 months.
If desired, use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
Quick oats can be used instead of rolled oats for a softer texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg