Apple Pie Cookies Recipe: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Dessert

Apple pie is a beloved dessert, known for its comforting flavors of cinnamon, apples, and a buttery, flaky crust. But what if we could take that classic, beloved flavor and turn it into something easier to snack on? Enter Apple Pie Cookies—the perfect blend of homemade apple pie and the convenience of a cookie. These bite-sized treats feature the warm, spicy apple filling encased in a buttery cookie dough, with a hint of cinnamon sugar on top. They’re soft, sweet, and incredibly satisfying, making them the perfect autumn snack or holiday treat.

History of Apple Pie Cookies

Apple pie has been a staple of American cuisine for centuries, often seen as the embodiment of comfort and home. The concept of the apple pie cookie likely emerged as a more portable, bite-sized version of this iconic dessert. As busy lifestyles and time constraints became more prominent, bakers began experimenting with creating simplified, individual servings of pie. Thus, the apple pie cookie was born—combining the same delicious flavors as the pie but in an easier, more portable form.

These cookies have grown in popularity for their versatility—easy to make and fun to eat, they can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference.

Ingredients:

For the cookie dough:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the apple pie filling:

2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), peeled, cored, and diced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the cinnamon-sugar topping:

2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the apples begin to soften and release their juices. If you want a thicker filling, add the cornstarch and stir until the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer).
Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough and roll them into balls.
Place each dough ball on the baking sheet, flattening it slightly with the palm of your hand.
Spoon a small amount of the apple pie filling onto the center of each cookie.
Take another ball of dough, flatten it out, and place it over the apple filling, pinching the edges together to seal.
Use a fork to press down gently on the edges to create a crimped look, or just press with your fingers.

Step 4: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the topping.
Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the top of each cookie.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the dough is cooked through.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Methods Behind the Recipe:

The method for these Apple Pie Cookies is a hybrid of classic cookie baking and pie-making techniques. The cookie dough itself is slightly sweeter and softer than a traditional pie crust, but it’s designed to complement the spiced apple filling. The filling is a simplified version of an apple pie filling, cooked down just enough to make it thick and sweet, but not runny.

The cinnamon-sugar topping adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch, mimicking the sweet crust of a pie.

Baking Tip: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pie filling or cookie dough, but the homemade versions really take the flavor to the next level.

Conclusion:

Apple Pie Cookies are the perfect fusion of two American favorites: the classic apple pie and the humble cookie. Their soft, buttery texture, combined with the warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, creates a flavor that will transport you straight to a cozy autumn day. Whether you’re making them for a holiday treat, a backyard picnic, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the taste of apple pie.

These cookies aren’t just about flavor—they’re about nostalgia, comfort, and creating something delicious with a little creativity. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get baking. Your taste buds will thank you.

Apple Pie Lovers Unite!

For those who adore apple pie, these cookies are your new best friend. The beauty of apple pie cookies is that they bring all the best parts of apple pie—the soft apples, the sweet spices, and the flaky texture—in a convenient, single-serving size. They’re perfect for those times when you want a bite of something sweet without having to slice into a full pie. Plus, they’re great for sharing! Whether you’re handing them out at a bake sale, packing them in lunchboxes, or just enjoying them with a cup of tea, you’ll be spreading the love for apple pie in every bite.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try something new with the classic apple pie flavors! Would you like to customize it with any specific variations or dietary preferences?