Apple Pie Cookies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert
Apple pie is a timeless dessert, and when you combine it with the convenience of cookies, you get apple pie cookies—a perfect treat for fall and the holiday season. These little gems pack all the warm flavors of apple pie, from cinnamon and nutmeg to apple chunks, into a portable, bite-sized delight. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy weekend treat, apple pie cookies are sure to impress.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make these delicious cookies, explore variations, and even offer tips on storage, decorating, and serving. Let’s dive into the world of apple pie cookies and discover why they’ve become a fall favorite.
Learn how to choose the best apples for baking to ensure your cookies are perfectly sweet and flavorful!
What Are Apple Pie Cookies?
Apple pie cookies are a delightful twist on the classic American dessert, combining the delicious filling of apple pie with the portability of a cookie. Unlike traditional apple pie, which requires a pie crust and a long baking time, these cookies are made from cookie dough filled with a cinnamon-spiced apple mixture.
The result? A crispy, soft cookie with an irresistible apple pie filling in the center. They’re easy to make and perfect for serving at parties or giving as gifts.
Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
- Portable and easy to eat.
- No pie crust-making required!
- Customizable with different fillings and toppings.
Key Ingredients
To make these delectable cookies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are common in both cookies and apple pie:
- Cookie dough:
- Butter, sugar, flour, baking soda, egg.
- Apple pie filling:
- Apples (choose a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp).
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar to give the filling that signature apple pie taste.
Optional toppings include:
- Powdered sugar, icing, or caramel sauce to drizzle on top of the cookies for extra sweetness.
You can learn more about the best apples for baking here.
Instructions :
Making apple pie cookies is simple, and the result is oh-so-delicious. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating these sweet treats:
1. Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add flour and baking soda, mixing until the dough comes together. If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes.
2. Make the Apple Pie Filling
- Peel and dice your apples into small chunks.
- In a pan, cook the apple chunks with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until softened and fragrant. The filling should be thick but not runny.
- Let it cool before using it to fill your cookies.
3. Assemble the Cookies
- Roll out the cookie dough on a floured surface.
- Cut the dough into rounds using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
- Place a small spoonful of the apple pie filling onto one round of dough, then cover it with another round of dough. Pinch the edges to seal.
- Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake and Serve
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for about 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce or dust with powdered sugar once they cool for an extra sweet touch.
Variations :
One of the best things about apple pie cookies is their versatility. Whether you’re catering to dietary preferences or looking to add a fun twist, there are plenty of variations to try. Here are some creative ideas:
- Mini Apple Pie Cookies: These bite-sized versions are perfect for parties or as a snack. You can make them using smaller rounds of dough and just a teaspoon of filling, making them easy to grab and enjoy.
- Vegan Apple Pie Cookies: For those following a plant-based diet, swap out butter for vegan alternatives and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of an egg. You can also use coconut sugar in place of refined sugar for a more natural sweetness.
- Gluten-Free Apple Pie Cookies: Using gluten-free flour blends can make these cookies accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to use a flour blend that includes xanthan gum or guar gum for the proper texture.
- Caramel Apple Pie Cookies: Add a spoonful of caramel sauce to the apple filling, or drizzle it over the finished cookies. The sweet caramel pairs perfectly with the spiced apples for an indulgent treat.
- Apple Pie Cookie Bars: If you’re not into individual cookies, bake the dough and filling as a bar in a square pan. Cut into squares once baked and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Decorating Ideas
Elevate your apple pie cookies with these simple and creative decorating ideas that add a festive touch to your treats:
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar gives the cookies a sweet, snowy finish, making them look elegant and perfect for any holiday gathering.
- Caramel Drizzle: For a richer flavor, drizzle warm caramel sauce over your cooled cookies. The sweet, gooey topping pairs beautifully with the spiced apple filling.
- Apple Slice Garnish: Place thin slices of apple on top of the cookies before baking for a rustic look. As they bake, the apple slices soften, adding both flavor and decoration.
- Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for an extra burst of flavor that ties back to the classic apple pie taste.
- Icing Designs: Use royal icing or a simple glaze to create fun designs, like small apple shapes, leaves, or even a drizzle that mimics the apple pie lattice top.
Why Apple Pie Cookies Are Perfect for Fall & Holiday Celebrations
Apple pie cookies are the ultimate fall and holiday treat, combining the cozy flavors of apple pie with the convenience of a cookie. The warm, spiced filling of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple makes these cookies a perfect choice for chilly autumn days and festive gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a simple fall gathering, apple pie cookies evoke a sense of comfort and tradition that everyone loves.
These cookies are easy to serve, portable, and ideal for sharing at parties or adding to dessert tables. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in decorative tins or jars, making them a thoughtful and delicious present. With their sweet, buttery dough and spiced apple filling, apple pie cookies offer all the flavors of the season, bringing joy to both kids and adults alike. Perfect for any celebration, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite!
Storing and Freezing :
Once you’ve made a batch of apple pie cookies, you might wonder how to store or freeze them for later. Here are a few tips:
- Storing: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.
- Freezing: If you’d like to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze both the dough and the baked cookies:
- For dough: Roll the dough into balls or discs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- For baked cookies: After baking, let the cookies cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
FAQ Section
What kind of apples are best for apple pie cookies?
For the best flavor and texture, choose apples that hold their shape when baked, like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.
Can I make apple pie cookies in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and apple filling up to 2 days ahead of time, or freeze the dough for later use. The cookies themselves can also be baked and frozen.
Can I use store-bought dough for apple pie cookies?
While making your own dough is ideal for flavor and texture, you can use pre-made cookie dough for a faster version of these cookies.
How do I prevent the apple filling from leaking out of the cookies?
Ensure the dough is well-sealed around the edges, and avoid overfilling. If the dough is too sticky, refrigerating it for 30 minutes can help with handling.
Conclusion
Apple pie cookies are a delightful and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of apple pie without the hassle of making a full pie. With their warm, spiced filling and buttery dough, these cookies are perfect for fall, the holidays, or any time you crave a sweet treat. By following the simple steps outlined above, you’ll have a batch of irresistible cookies that everyone will love.
Ready to try making your own batch? Follow the instructions, get creative with variations, and enjoy the sweet flavors of apple pie cookies all season long!
Get more tips for your holiday baking here and make the most of your fall flavors!
If you like more delicious dessert recipes.discover our new recipe for Dark Chocolate Mousse Cake
