Apple Pie Cookies

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Apple Pie Cookies Recipe: A Bite-Sized Delight

Apple Pie Cookies are the perfect fusion of classic apple pie and soft, chewy cookies. These miniature treats deliver all the warmth and nostalgia of homemade apple pie, wrapped in a portable, bite-sized form. With a buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and a hint of caramelization, they are a delightful dessert for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven, served with ice cream, or packed as a snack, these cookies are a favorite among both kids and adults.

History of Apple Pie Cookies

Apple pie has long been a staple dessert in American culture, with its origins tracing back to England and Europe. The combination of sweet, spiced apples with a flaky crust became an American icon, often associated with comfort and home-cooked meals. Over time, creative bakers have transformed the traditional pie into various forms, including apple pie bars, muffins, and now, apple pie cookies. These cookies maintain the essence of apple pie but offer a convenient and fun way to enjoy the flavors in a new way.

Benefits of Apple Pie Cookies

  1. Nutritious Ingredients – Apples provide fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar.
  2. Portion-Controlled Treat – Unlike a large slice of pie, these cookies allow for easy portion control.
  3. Versatile – Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, lunchbox snacks, or dessert trays.
  4. Easy to Make – Requires fewer steps than a full apple pie while delivering the same great taste.
  5. Kid-Friendly – A great way to introduce children to baking with a fun and rewarding recipe.

Ingredients for Apple Pie Cookies

For the Cookie Dough:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup brown sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

For the Apple Pie Filling:

2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

⅓ cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

For the Assembly:

1 sheet pre-made pie crust (optional for lattice topping)

1 egg (for egg wash)

1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for garnish)

¼ cup caramel sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well.
  3. Let the mixture cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples soften.
  4. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the filling thickens.
  5. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
  3. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles from the dough.
  4. Place half of the dough circles onto the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Spoon a small amount of apple pie filling onto the center of each circle.
  6. If using pie crust, cut thin strips and create a lattice topping over each cookie.
  7. If not using a lattice, place another dough circle on top of each filled cookie and press the edges with a fork to seal.
  8. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

  1. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  2. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  3. Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
  4. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)

Calories: 180-220

Carbohydrates: 28g

Sugar: 12g

Fat: 8g

Protein: 2g

Fiber: 1g

Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.

Who Loves Apple Pie Cookies?

Apple pie cookies are adored by dessert lovers of all ages. Children enjoy their sweet and fruity flavor, while adults appreciate the nostalgic taste of apple pie in a convenient form. They are a favorite at:

Holiday Gatherings – A crowd-pleaser for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and fall events.

Tea Parties – Perfectly paired with coffee or tea.

Lunchboxes & Snacks – Great for kids’ school lunches or a quick treat.

Baking Enthusiasts – A fun and creative recipe for those who love experimenting with desserts.

Formation and Variations

These cookies can be shaped in various ways, such as:

Classic Round Cookies – Traditional shape with a filling inside.

Lattice-Topped Cookies – Using pie crust to mimic the look of a mini pie.

Turnover-Style Cookies – Folding the dough over the filling like a hand pie.

Variations:

Cinnamon Sugar Apple Pie Cookies – Sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar on top.

Gluten-Free Version – Use almond or gluten-free flour.

Vegan Option – Replace butter with plant-based alternatives and use flax egg.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Cookies bring the heartwarming flavors of apple pie into a convenient, handheld dessert. Whether for a holiday treat, an everyday snack, or a special occasion, these cookies are sure to impress. With a crispy yet chewy texture, a spiced apple filling, and an optional caramel drizzle, they satisfy both pie and cookie lovers alike.

If you love apple pie but want a fun twist, these cookies are the perfect solution. Try them today and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade comfort in every bite!

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