1-First Step: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2-Second Step: In a mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. For vegan versions, use plant-based margarine.

3-Third Step: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Replace with flax egg if making vegan cookies.

4-Fourth Step: Gradually add the all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend), mixing gently to create a soft dough.

5-Fifth Step: Fold in finely chopped apples and caramel bits, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dough.

6-Sixth Step: Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading.

7-Seventh Step: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Adjust timing slightly for larger or smaller cookies.

8-Final Step: Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or store as preferred.

Now, let’s add the special touches from the directions you provided. Begin with the streusel: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, then stir in the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until clumps form and the mixture turns golden brown. Transfer it to a plate to cool while you move on.

For the cookies themselves: Cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy, then add the egg, apple-juice concentrate, and vanilla before mixing in the dry ingredients. Scoop 2-Tbsp portions onto lined sheets and bake for 10 minutes until edges are crisp.

Don’t forget the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add caramel sauce, powdered sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Finally, assemble by piping frosting onto cooled cookies, topping with diced apple, sprinkling the streusel, and drizzling more caramel sauce. Wow, that sounds amazing, doesn’t it?