Apple Pie Cookies

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As summer slowly transitions into autumn, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of cinnamon and spices wafting through your home. Picture this: a cozy day with the rain gently tapping against your window and the delightful scent of freshly baked apple treats filling the air. If that sounds inviting, then these Apple Pie Cookies are just the ticket. With gooey caramel and a hint of cinnamon, they’re the ultimate comfort food for those chilly, rainy autumn days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on classic apple pie. They are easy to make, especially if you opt for store-bought ingredients, and they bring the warm, inviting flavors of autumn right to your kitchen. Perfect for a quick treat or a cozy dessert, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Pastry blender
• Rolling pin
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper
• Round cookie cutter (about 2.5 inches)
• Pastry brush

Ingredients

For Apple Pie Filling:

• 3 apples (about 1 lb.), peeled and sliced into 8 slices each
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons white sugar
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons corn starch
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• A dash of nutmeg
• 3/4 cup water

For Pie Crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into cubes and chilled
• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup ice water
• (or 1 package Refrigerated Pie Crust, 2 crusts)

Filling and Topping:

• 1 and 3/4 cups apple pie filling, chopped into small pieces
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup sugar

Instructions

To make Apple Pie Filling:

1. Toss sliced apples with lemon juice and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, combine cornstarch, white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and water. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, whisking constantly.
3. Let it boil for 2 minutes until thick, then stir in apple slices.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until apples are soft but not mushy. Remove from heat and let them cool, covered.
5. Once cooled, remove apples from the sauce and chop into small pieces. Set aside.

To make Pie Crust:

1. In a large mixing bowl, mix together flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Using a pastry blender, incorporate chilled butter cubes into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse meal.
3. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of ice water over the mixture and blend. Repeat with another 2 tablespoons of water. Add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if the dough crumbles.
4. Divide the dough into two equal pieces, flatten and form into discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
5. Lightly dust a surface with flour, place chilled dough on it, and roll it out to 1/8-inch thick. Repeat with the second disc.

Assembling the Apple Pie Cookies:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and spray with non-stick spray.
2. Spread the caramel sauce onto one pie crust. Spread chopped apple pie filling over the caramel and gently tap with your palms.
3. Cut the second pie crust into 1/2 inch strips and create a lattice top over the filling.
4. Using a round cookie cutter, cut out the cookies and place them onto the baking sheet.
5. Beat the egg with a fork and brush the tops of the cookies. Combine cinnamon and sugar, and sprinkle generously over the cookies.
6. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips for Success

Ensure the butter is well chilled before incorporating it into the flour mixture for a flaky crust. If your dough feels too dry, gradually add more water until it holds together. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a twist, try adding a hint of ginger or allspice to the apple filling. You can also drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce over the cookies for an extra indulgence.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 180 | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use store-bought pie crust? Absolutely! It saves time and still tastes delicious.

How should I store these cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw before serving.

Conclusion

These Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of autumn in a bite-sized treat. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your experience with us!

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