Apple Pie Cookies

If you are craving a cozy, sweet treat that captures the heart of autumn in every bite, this **Apple Pie Cookies** recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with cinnamon-spiced apple goodness wrapped in soft, buttery dough, these cookies offer the perfect balance of tender crumb and fruity filling. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these Apple Pie Cookies bring the warmth and nostalgia of classic apple pie in a fun, easy-to-share form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort food charm: These cookies deliver all the classic apple pie flavors in a bite-sized form that’s less fuss and more fun.
• Simple ingredients: Just a handful of pantry staples combine to create a deeply flavorful treat, making it easy to bake any day.
• Perfect texture: Soft, chewy edges paired with a gooey cinnamon-apple filling give a delightful contrast with every bite.
• Great for sharing: These cookies travel well and make a wonderful gift or addition to any dessert spread.
• Customizable: Easily tweak this recipe to suit dietary needs or personal flavor preferences without losing the essence of apple pie.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are some straightforward, wholesome ingredients that combine to create the magic of these Apple Pie Cookies. Each contributes to the flavor, texture, and authentic apple pie experience that makes this recipe so irresistible.

• Apples: Choose crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith for the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavor.
• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon infuses warmth, providing that iconic apple pie spice note.
• Butter: Unsalted butter creates a tender, flaky cookie texture and rich taste.
• Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugar adds sweetness and moisture to the dough and filling.
• Flour: All-purpose flour forms the sturdy yet soft base for the cookie dough.
• Eggs: They bind the dough and help with a tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a layer of mellow sweetness and aroma, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Baking powder: Ensures the cookies rise nicely with a light texture.
• Lemon juice: A splash brightens the apple filling and prevents browning.

Variations for Apple Pie Cookies

This Apple Pie Cookies recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to customize it based on what you have in your pantry or how you like to enjoy your treats. The possibilities to personalize this classic favorite are endless.

• Gluten-free option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to enjoy these cookies without gluten.
• Vegan twist: Use coconut oil instead of butter and flax eggs to make this recipe completely plant-based.
• Nutty addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and a nutty depth.
• Maple flavor: Replace vanilla extract with pure maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
• Caramel drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an indulgent finishing touch.

How to Make Apple Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by peeling and finely dicing your apples. Toss them with lemon juice, cinnamon, a bit of sugar, and a touch of flour to thicken. Cook this mixture in a skillet over medium heat until the apples soften and the flavors meld into a fragrant, sticky filling. Set aside to cool completely before assembling the cookies.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

Cream the butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, then gradually blend it into the wet ingredients to form a soft, pliable dough.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter or glass to cut out rounds. Spoon a small amount of the cooled apple filling onto half of the rounds, then top with the remaining rounds, gently pressing the edges to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for extra charm and security.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the stuffed cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. Allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before enjoying.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Cookies

• Use cold butter: Chilled butter helps create a flaky, tender cookie texture when baked.
• Don’t overfill: Avoid overflowing apple filling to prevent leaks and soggy bottoms.
• Let the filling cool: Using cooled filling keeps the dough from getting too soft or sticky while assembling.
• Chill dough before rolling: A quick chill makes the dough easier to handle and minimizes spreading while baking.
• Dust with cinnamon sugar: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top right before baking for extra sparkle and flavor.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cookies

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal, making your Apple Pie Cookies irresistible to both eyes and taste buds.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert experience that feels both cozy and indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden board with fresh apple slices, cinnamon sticks, and a small bowl of spiced apple butter for a charming fall-inspired dessert platter perfect for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Apple Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and flavorful while maintaining that freshly baked taste.

Freezing

Wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen Apple Pie Cookies stay delicious for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

Warm the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave briefly for 15-20 seconds to revive their soft, gooey texture and enhance the aromatic cinnamon-apple filling.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for Apple Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! Crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji also work beautifully, but tart varieties such as Granny Smith help balance the sweetness perfectly.

Can I make the dough and filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare both the dough and the apple filling a day ahead. Keep the dough wrapped in plastic in the fridge and store the filling in an airtight container.

Are Apple Pie Cookies gluten-free?

The recipe as is contains gluten from all-purpose flour; however, you can substitute with gluten-free flour blends to accommodate gluten-free diets.

Can I substitute butter with oil in this recipe?

Butter is recommended for its flavor and texture, but you can experiment with coconut oil or a neutral oil, though texture and taste might vary slightly.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

Try adding a sprinkle of colored sugar, a cinnamon glaze drizzle, or shaped cookie cutters like leaves or pumpkins to make them perfect for holidays and celebrations.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into Apple Pie Cookies, where soft dough meets a warm cinnamon-apple filling. This recipe is a simple way to bring those nostalgic flavors to life in an easy, delightful form perfect for sharing or savoring solo. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and bake some joy into your day with these irresistible Apple Pie Cookies—you won’t regret it!

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