apple pie cookies from a top view

Apple pie is a beloved dessert that evokes warmth, comfort, and nostalgia.

But what if you could take that same delicious flavor and turn it into a bite-sized treat?

Enter Apple Pie Cookies – the perfect fusion of a cookie and a pie that you can enjoy on the go.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious newbie, I’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to make these crowd-pleasing cookies.

Let’s get baking!

What Are Apple Pie Cookies?

Apple pie cookies are the perfect marriage of two beloved desserts: the classic apple pie and the ever-popular cookie.

These delightful treats capture the essence of a traditional apple pie – the warm, spiced filling and flaky crust – in a compact, portable form.

Unlike their full-sized counterparts, apple pie cookies are typically 2-3 inches in diameter, making them perfect for snacking, sharing, or indulging without the commitment of a whole slice of pie.

What sets apple pie cookies apart is their versatility.

They can be made as drop cookies with a pie-like filling, sandwich cookies with apple pie filling between two layers, or even as mini tarts.

The result? A perfect bite-sized piece of autumn that you can enjoy any time of year!

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Apple Pie Cookies

To create these mouthwatering morsels, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

  1. Flour: All-purpose flour works best for achieving that perfect cookie texture.
  2. Butter: Unsalted butter gives richness and helps create a flaky texture.
  3. Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugar for sweetness and depth.
  4. Apples: The star of the show! Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and ability to hold shape when cooked.
  5. Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of allspice for that classic apple pie flavor.
  6. Egg: To bind the dough together.
  7. Vanilla extract: For an extra layer of flavor.
  8. Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the other flavors.

When selecting apples, remember that firmer varieties work best. Besides Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady apples are excellent choices.

They’ll hold their shape during baking and provide a nice contrast to the soft cookie.

Pro tip: Using high-quality butter and fresh spices can make a world of difference in the final flavor of your cookies. Don’t be afraid to splurge a little on these key ingredients!

close up apple pie cookies

Tips and Tricks for Baking Success

Even the most experienced bakers can use a few tricks up their sleeve. Here are some tips to ensure your apple pie cookies turn out perfectly every time:

  1. Keep it cool: Make sure your butter is cold when making the dough. This helps create that flaky, pie-like texture.
  2. Don’t overmix: Mix the dough just until it comes together. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
  3. Chill out: Refrigerating the dough before rolling helps prevent spreading during baking.
  4. Size matters: Cut your apples into small, uniform pieces for even cooking and easy assembly.
  5. Seal the deal: Make sure to pinch the edges of your cookies well to prevent filling from leaking out.
  6. Golden brown: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. You want them golden brown, not burnt!

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

They also freeze well for up to 3 months – perfect for unexpected guests or late-night cravings!

Variations and Creative Twists on Apple Pie Cookies

Why stop at classic apple pie? Get creative with these delicious variations:

  1. Caramel Apple Pie Cookies: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
  2. Apple Pie Cookie Sandwiches: Sandwich apple pie filling between two cookies.
  3. Nutty Apple Pie Cookies: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
  4. Gluten-Free Apple Pie Cookies: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
  5. Vegan Apple Pie Cookies: Use vegan butter and a flax egg instead of regular butter and egg.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different apple varieties or even mix in other fruits like pears or cranberries for a unique twist!

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Apple pie cookies are delicious on their own, but why not take them to the next level? Here are some serving ideas:

  1. A la mode: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  2. Dunking delight: Pair with a cup of hot apple cider or coffee.
  3. Crumble topping: Sprinkle with a sweet oat crumble before baking.
  4. Dessert charcuterie: Include on a dessert board with cheese, nuts, and fresh fruit.
  5. Gift giving: Package in a cute box or jar for a homemade gift.

For an extra special presentation, dust your cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

close up apple pie cookies

Apple Pie Cookies

These delightful apple pie cookies combine the best of two worlds: the comforting flavors of apple pie and the convenience of a cookie.
With a buttery, flaky crust and a spiced apple filling, they're perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 Cookies
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 Granny Smith apples peeled and finely diced
  • ¼ cup brown sugar for filling
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • Pinch of allspice

Instructions
 

  • In a food processor, pulse flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and salt until combined.
  • Add cold butter cubes and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Add egg and vanilla, pulse until dough comes together.
  • Wrap dough in plastic and chill for 1 hour.
  • Meanwhile, mix diced apples with 1/4 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for the filling.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness and cut into 3-inch circles.
  • Place a spoonful of apple filling in the center of each circle.
  • Fold edges up to create a little tart, pinching to seal.
  • Bake for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
Keyword Apple Pie Cookies, Cookie Recipes

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