Apple Pie Cookies: Your 1-Stop Sweet Treat

Name: Apple Pie Cookies: Your 1-Stop Sweet Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the apple filling:; 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, finely chopped – ~1½ cups); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons brown sugar; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; Pinch of nutmeg; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; For the cookie dough:; ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened); ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar (packed); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for added warmth); Optional topping:; Extra cinnamon sugar for sprinkling; Caramel drizzle (for a fall desserts caramel apple twist)

by basmer

31 de August de 2025

Facebook

Jump to Recipe

Apple Pie Cookies have a way of bringing back the best autumn memories for me. I remember my mom baking batches of these every year, the whole house filling with the warm, comforting scent of cinnamon and baked apples. It felt like pure magic! These aren’t just any cookies; they’re little bites of heaven that capture all the cozy flavors of a classic apple pie. If you’re looking for the best apple pie cookies that are both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to whip up, you’ve found them. Get ready to make some amazing homemade apple pie cookies that your family will adore. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Apple Pie Cookies

Get ready to fall in love with these delightful treats! They’re packed with flavor and incredibly satisfying.

Amazing Taste: Experience the perfect blend of sweet, spiced apples and buttery cookie goodness in every bite.
Quick Prep: With a prep time of only 20 minutes, these are truly easy apple pie cookies for busy weeknights.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, pantry-staple ingredients, you can enjoy a taste of autumn without breaking the bank.
Family Favorite: These cookies are a hit with all ages, making them perfect for family gatherings or after-school treats.
Impressive Presentation: Their charming appearance and delicious aroma are sure to wow your guests.
Versatile: Enjoy them as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack any time of day.
Simple to Make: These are genuinely easy apple pie cookies, even for beginner bakers!
Comforting Flavors: They capture the essence of a warm apple pie in a perfectly portable cookie form.

Ingredients for Delicious Apple Pie Cookies

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful treats. You’ll find that making the apple pie cookie filling is as easy as making the cookies themselves!

For the apple filling:
2 medium apples (peeled, cored, finely chopped – ~1½ cups) – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully for that perfect sweet-tart balance.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter – This helps soften the apples and carry the flavors.
3 tablespoons brown sugar – Adds a lovely caramel note and sweetness.
½ teaspoon cinnamon – Essential for that classic apple pie warmth.
Pinch of nutmeg – Just a touch enhances the spice profile.
1 teaspoon lemon juice – Brightens the apple flavor and helps prevent browning.
1 teaspoon cornstarch – This is key to thickening our apple pie cookie filling so it doesn’t make the cookies soggy.
For the cookie dough:
¾ cup unsalted butter (softened) – Make sure it’s softened, not melted, for the best cookie texture.
½ cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with browning.
½ cup brown sugar (packed) – Adds moisture and a richer, caramel-like flavor to the cookie.
1 large egg – Acts as a binder for the dough.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances all the other flavors.
2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our delicious cookie.
½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise just a bit.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
Optional: ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for added warmth) – Double the cinnamon for an extra cozy spice!
Optional topping:
Extra cinnamon sugar for sprinkling – Adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
Caramel drizzle (for a fall desserts caramel apple twist) – For an extra decadent touch!

How to Make Apple Pie Cookies

Ready to bake up some magic? These steps will guide you through creating the most delightful apple pie cookies you’ve ever tasted. The aroma alone will transport you straight to a cozy autumn kitchen!

Cooking the Apple Filling

Step 1: Let’s start by making that luscious apple pie cookie filling. In a small saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add your 2 medium apples (chopped finely), 3 tablespoons brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5–7 minutes, until the apples begin to soften and release their sweet scent. Now, whisk in the 1 teaspoon cornstarch and continue cooking for another 1–2 minutes until the filling thickens beautifully. This is crucial for preventing a soggy cookie! Once thickened, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool completely.

Preparing the Cookie Dough

Step 2: While the filling cools, let’s whip up the cookie dough. In a large bowl, cream together the ¾ cup unsalted butter (make sure it’s softened!), ½ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming process is key to a tender cookie! Next, beat in the 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until everything is wonderfully smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and the optional ½ teaspoon cinnamon for that extra warmth. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the apple pie cookie dough; you want it soft but not sticky.

Assembling and Filling the Cookies

Step 3: Now for the fun part – assembling these beauties! Scoop the apple pie cookie dough into balls, about 1½ tablespoons each. Place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently flatten each dough ball into a disc. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, create a small, neat well in the center of each cookie. This is where our delicious apple filling will go! Spoon a small amount of the cooled apple filling into each well. For an extra touch, you can roll out some extra dough and cut thin strips to lay over the filling in a classic lattice pattern, just like a mini apple pie.

Baking and Finishing Touches

Step 4: It’s time to bake these little delights! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the assembled cookies into the preheated oven. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are beautifully golden brown and the centers look just set. The aroma filling your kitchen will be heavenly! Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes; this helps them firm up slightly. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Step 5: Once they’ve cooled a bit, sprinkle them with extra cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm for a delightful crunch and extra flavor. For an even more decadent treat, drizzle them with caramel sauce to really lean into that fall desserts caramel apple vibe!

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Pie Cookies

Want to elevate your apple pie cookies from good to absolutely unforgettable? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a huge difference in achieving that perfect texture and flavor.

Chill the Dough: If your apple pie cookie dough feels a bit too soft or sticky, don’t hesitate to chill it for about 30 minutes before scooping. This helps prevent them from spreading too much and keeps their lovely shape.
Don’t Overfill: Resist the urge to pack too much apple filling into each cookie. A small spoonful is perfect; too much can cause the filling to ooze out during baking.
Cool Completely: Always let your baked apple pie cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This allows them to set properly and prevents them from breaking.
Fresh Spices: Use fresh cinnamon and nutmeg for the most vibrant flavor. Old spices lose their punch, and you want that full apple pie essence!

What’s the secret to perfect apple pie cookies?

The secret lies in a well-balanced apple filling that’s not too wet and a cookie dough that’s creamy and slightly chilled. Think of it like making perfect apple pie sugar cookies – balance is key!

Can I make apple pie cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the apple pie cookie dough and the apple filling a day in advance. Store the dough covered in the fridge, and keep the cooled filling in an airtight container. This makes assembly a breeze when you’re ready to bake!

How do I avoid common mistakes with apple pie cookies?

The biggest pitfalls are usually a sticky dough or overbaking. If the dough is sticky, chill it. If you’re worried about overbaking, err on the side of slightly underdone, as they continue to cook on the hot baking sheet.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Pie Cookies

These delightful cookies are versatile enough for any occasion, offering a perfect taste of fall. They’re wonderful on their own, but here are a few ideas to make them even more special.

Morning Treat: Enjoy one with your morning coffee or tea for a sweet start to the day. They pair beautifully with a warm beverage.
Afternoon Delight: Serve them as an after-school snack for the kids or a pick-me-up during a busy afternoon.
Dessert Pairing: These cookies shine as dessert apple pie cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a lovely accompaniment to a warm mug of apple cider.

Apple Pie Cookies Nutrition Facts

Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown for these delightful treats, per cookie. Remember, these are just estimates, as individual ingredients can vary!

Calories: 120
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 60mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Pie Cookies

Once your delicious apple pie cookies are baked and cooled, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them tasting their best. For optimal freshness, make sure the baked apple pie cookies are completely cool before storing them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a fantastic option! Wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat your apple pie cookies, a few minutes in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) can bring back that fresh-baked warmth and texture, especially if you’ve stored them in the fridge. If reheating from frozen, you can place them directly into a warm oven for a few extra minutes until heated through. This method is perfect for enjoying that comforting apple pie flavor anytime!

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Pie Cookies

What are apple pie cookies?

Apple pie cookies are delightful, bite-sized treats that capture the beloved flavors of classic apple pie in a portable cookie form. They typically feature a buttery cookie base, often with a hint of cinnamon, filled with tender, spiced apples, and sometimes topped with a crumbly streusel or a sweet glaze. They’re a wonderful way to enjoy apple pie’s comforting taste without needing a fork!

How to make apple pie cookies?

To make apple pie cookies, you’ll first prepare a simple apple filling by cooking chopped apples with sugar and spices until tender and slightly thickened. While that cools, you’ll make a soft cookie dough by creaming butter and sugars, then incorporating eggs, vanilla, and dry ingredients. Scoop the dough, press a well into the center, and fill it with the cooled apple mixture before baking until golden brown. It’s a straightforward process that yields delicious results!

Can I use different types of apples for these cookies?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith offer a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cookie, you can certainly use sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. Combining a couple of different types can also add complexity to the flavor of your apple pie cookie filling.

Do these cookies taste exactly like apple pie?

They capture the essence of apple pie beautifully! You get that warm cinnamon-apple flavor profile, but in a softer, chewier cookie texture rather than a flaky crust. They offer a similar comforting experience, making them a fantastic alternative when you want apple pie flavors in a more convenient format.

Variations of Apple Pie Cookies You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic version of these delightful treats, why not get a little creative? There are so many ways to put your own spin on these delightful cookies, making them perfect for any craving or dietary need.

Apple Crumble Cookies: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, try topping your cookies with a simple streusel topping before baking. Combine ¼ cup flour, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons cold butter cut into small pieces. Rub them together until crumbly, then sprinkle over the apple filling before baking for delicious apple crumble cookies.
Gluten-Free Option: Easily adapt this recipe by using your favorite 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for best results.
Extra Apple Cinnamon Cookies: Boost the spiced apple flavor by adding an extra ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to the apple filling and another ½ teaspoon to the cookie dough. This makes for wonderfully aromatic apple cinnamon cookies.
Vegan Apple Pie Cookies: Substitute the butter with vegan butter sticks and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) instead of the large egg. This creates a delicious vegan version that everyone can enjoy!