Making Oatmeal Caramel Apple Cookies is easier than you might think. Just follow these steps for a delightful batch of cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, add softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs: Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Incorporate Oats and Apples: Stir in the rolled oats, diced apples, and caramel bits until evenly distributed.
7. Optional Nuts: If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
8. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
9. Bake: Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers appear set.
10. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Following these simple steps will yield warm, gooey, and delicious cookies that everyone will be excited to enjoy!