Easy Apple Pie Cookies

These Easy Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on classic apple pie, offering a fun and portable dessert option. Perfect for gatherings, family events, or just a cozy night in, these cookies feature a soft cinnamon cookie base filled with homemade apple pie filling and drizzled with caramel sauce. Their unique blend of flavors makes them a standout treat that will impress guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With a prep time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, apples, and caramel creates an irresistible flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for any occasion, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers, these cookies are sure to please.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own apple pie filling for a fresh taste in every bite.
• Kid-Friendly: Easy enough for kids to help out with, making it a great family activity.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these scrumptious cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently and keeping everything organized.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the best results and consistent flavors in your cookies.

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

Begin by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped apples and stir well. Then:
1. Mix in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, salt, and water.
2. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the apples soften.
3. Stir in the cornstarch mixture until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and kosher salt until fluffy.
2. Beat in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and cornstarch.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. To assemble:
1. Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto prepared sheets.
2. Flatten each scoop slightly and place a spoonful of cooled apple filling in the center.
3. Top with another scoop of dough to encase the filling.

Step 4: Bake Your Cookies

Bake cookies in preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool before drizzling with caramel sauce if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Easy Apple Pie Cookies, perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself!

How to Serve Easy Apple Pie Cookies

These Easy Apple Pie Cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you are hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night at home, these cookies can be served in many delightful ways.

With Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on top makes for an indulgent treat.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cookies before serving.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and texture.

Pairing with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include your apple pie cookies on a dessert platter with other treats for an inviting presentation.

How to Perfect Easy Apple Pie Cookies

Perfecting your Easy Apple Pie Cookies can elevate them to new heights. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, crisp apples enhance the flavor and texture of the filling.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, ensuring they are lightly golden but not overcooked.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add additional spices like ginger or cloves for extra flavor depth in the filling.
• Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for several days.
• Customize Fillings: Try adding nuts or raisins to the apple filling for more texture and taste variety.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Apple Pie Cookies

These Easy Apple Pie Cookies can be complemented beautifully with various side dishes. Here’s a list of great options that pair well with them.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances sweetness.
2. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzling warm caramel sauce enhances the flavors of your cookies splendidly.
3. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
4. Coffee Cake
   The lightness of coffee cake makes it an excellent companion for these cookies during brunch.
5. Cheesecake Bites
   Mini cheesecake bites offer a creamy complement to the spiced apple flavors.
6. Hot Chocolate
   A warm mug of hot chocolate creates a cozy dessert experience when paired with these cookies.
7. Tea Biscuits
   Light tea biscuits provide a simple yet tasty accompaniment, perfect for afternoon tea gatherings.
8. Chocolate Fondue
   Dip pieces of cookie into chocolate fondue for an indulgent twist on dessert!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Apple Pie Cookies can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your results.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the cookie’s texture. Always ensure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a tender result.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading. If you have time, chill it for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise; use a kitchen scale or accurate measuring cups for best results.
• Under baking or over baking: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be golden brown around the edges but slightly soft in the center when done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Easy Apple Pie Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Easy Apple Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat, as it may become tough.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan on low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Apple Pie Cookies.

Can I use different fruits for the filling?

Yes! You can substitute apples with pears, peaches, or berries for a unique twist.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to make gluten-free Easy Apple Pie Cookies.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before baking.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

You can substitute cornstarch with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or tapioca starch in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Apple Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various fillings or spices according to your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this fun twist on classic apple pie!