Easy Apple Pie Cookies

These Easy Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. With a soft cinnamon cookie base filled with homemade apple pie filling and drizzled with caramel sauce, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something sweet, these cookies will impress everyone with their warm flavors and inviting aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: These cookies come together in just 40 minutes, making them an easy treat for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a comforting taste reminiscent of traditional apple pie.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, holidays, or as an everyday snack, these cookies suit any event.
• Family Friendly: Kids will love helping to make these cookies and enjoy eating them even more.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different spices or additional fruits to personalize your cookie filling.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutter (optional)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking of your cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple mixing bowls allows you to separate wet and dry ingredients easily.
• Spatula: A good spatula helps you transfer your cookies without breaking them.

Ingredients

To make these delicious apple pie cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Base

• 1 cup Butter (softened, unsalted)
• 1/2 cup Brown sugar
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
• 2 Eggs
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 1/3 tsp Baking soda
• 1/4 tsp Baking powder
• 1 tbsp Cornstarch
• 3 cups Flour (AP, plain)

For the Apple Filling

• 1/2 cup Butter (unsalted)
• 6 Apples (peeled and chopped)
• 2/3 cup Brown sugar
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 2 tbsp Lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp Nutmeg
• 4 tbsp Water
• 1/3 tsp Kosher salt
• 4 tsp Cornstarch (mixed with a little bit of water)

How to Make Easy Apple Pie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
• Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, nutmeg, salt, and water.
• Cook until the apples soften—about 5–7 minutes.
• Stir in cornstarch mixed with water until thickened. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
• Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and cinnamon.
• Combine dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt in another bowl.
• Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until fully combined.

Step 3: Assemble Cookies

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Scoop out dough portions and flatten them into circles on your baking sheet.
• Place a spoonful of cooled apple filling in the center of each circle.
• Fold the edges of the cookie dough over the filling to seal it.

Step 4: Bake Cookies

• Bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
• Allow cooling on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked Easy Apple Pie Cookies! They’re sure to become a favorite in your household.

How to Serve Easy Apple Pie Cookies

These Easy Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich contrast to the warm cookies, enhancing the apple and cinnamon flavors.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Topping your cookies with caramel sauce adds extra sweetness and a gooey texture that complements the cookie’s softness.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your cookies alongside a cup of coffee or tea; the warm beverages bring out the spices in the cookies beautifully.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar gives your cookies an elegant finish and adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming them.

Served Warm

• For the best experience, serve these cookies warm right out of the oven. The warmth enhances their aroma and flavor.

How to Perfect Easy Apple Pie Cookies

Perfecting Easy Apple Pie Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use softened butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a softer cookie texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the dough: If it’s too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain shape during baking.
• Use fresh apples: Fresh, firm apples will provide the best flavor and texture for your filling.
• Adjust spices as desired: Feel free to tweak the cinnamon and nutmeg amounts based on your flavor preference.
• Watch baking time closely: Bake until golden brown but not overdone; every oven is different, so adjust accordingly.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Apple Pie Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Apple Pie Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas:

1. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the dense cookie texture.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory complement that offsets the sweetness.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent twist on dessert.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a balanced snack that pairs well with spiced flavors.
6. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the flavors in your cookies while providing a cozy drink option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Apple Pie Cookies, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter can lead to cookie dough that doesn’t spread properly. Always use softened butter for a smooth texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can create tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft and chewy results.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the dough can cause your cookies to spread too much while baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Not Using Enough Flour: Too little flour can result in runny dough. Measure your flour accurately for perfect consistency.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Baking cookies too long makes them hard rather than soft. Keep an eye on them and remove when edges are golden.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Easy Apple Pie Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Apple Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover it, and warm for a few minutes until just heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Easy Apple Pie Cookies, we have answers!

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, you can use any apple variety you prefer! Sweet apples like Fuji or Granny Smith work well.

How do I make the apple filling?

Cook chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, nutmeg, and water until tender. Thicken with cornstarch as needed.

Can I substitute the butter?

Certainly! You can use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative if desired.

How long do these cookies last?

Easy Apple Pie Cookies will last in the refrigerator for about 5 days and up to 3 months in the freezer.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for added texture and flavor!

Final Thoughts

Easy Apple Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different fruits or spices based on your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful treat that combines classic flavors with cookie comfort!