Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful fusion of two classic desserts: apple pie and cookies. They offer the comforting flavors of apple pie in a convenient, bite-sized form. Imagine a tender cookie dough enveloping a sweet and spiced apple filling, finished off with a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping. It’s the quintessential autumn treat, perfect for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Their appealing texture and rich taste make Apple Pie Cookies a favorite among dessert lovers and a must-try for anyone seeking a nostalgic yet innovative dessert experience.
Ingredients for Apple Pie Cookies
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- Apple Filling:
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups peeled and diced Granny Smith apples (about 2 apples) *see notes
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar, light or dark
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cool water
- Cookie Dough:
- 2 1/3 cups (302g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar, light or dark
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
- Apples: If you don’t have Granny Smith apples, you can substitute with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples.
- Butter: For a dairy-free version, replace unsalted butter with margarine or a plant-based butter substitute.
- Eggs: Use a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water as a vegan alternative.
- Brown Sugar: Swap light brown sugar with dark brown sugar for a richer molasses flavor.
How to Make Apple Pie Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
Start by melting 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced Granny Smith apples, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir the mixture to coat the apples evenly. Cook until the apples are tender, typically about 5-7 minutes. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cool water, then add it to the apple mixture. Cook for an additional minute until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and brown sugar together on medium speed until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart. Make a small indentation in the center of each dough ball and fill it with the apple filling.
Step 4: Add Cinnamon Sugar and Bake
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture over the cookies for added flavor and texture. Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Apple Pie Cookies
Best Ways to Serve Apple Pie Cookies
Apple Pie Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed at room temperature or slightly warmed. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair these cookies with a warm cup of spiced tea or hot apple cider for a harmonious pairing. For a festive touch, serve alongside a charcuterie board as the sweet component.
How to Store Apple Pie Cookies
Proper Storage Methods
To keep Apple Pie Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Ensure the cookies are completely cooled before storing, to prevent condensation.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
For reheating, place cookies in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their warmth. To freeze, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Apple Pie Cookies
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the dough, as it may result in tough cookies. Ensure the apple filling is cool before adding it to the dough to prevent it from melting.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
Chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes will enhance the flavor and prevent spreading during baking. Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat ensures even baking and easy cookie removal.
Variations of Apple Pie Cookies
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
For a caramel twist, drizzle caramel sauce over the cooled cookies. Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts to the dough for a crunchy texture.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
To make gluten-free Apple Pie Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and replace eggs with flax eggs.
FAQs
What Can I Do If the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
If your cookies are too hard, check your oven temperature and avoid overbaking. If they’re spreading too much, chill your dough longer before baking.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, make the dough and apple filling up to a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator and assemble just before baking.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
In case you’re missing an ingredient, consider the following substitutes: apples can be replaced with pears for a change in flavor, and oat flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
With these detailed guidelines, your Apple Pie Cookies are sure to delight everyone who tries them. Enjoy your baking adventure, and savor every delicious bite of these comforting cookies!
