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Apple Pie Cookies

Apple Pie Cookies

Apple Pie Cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of classic apple pie—cinnamon-spiced tender apples, buttery crust, and a touch of sweetness—in a chewy, portable cookie form. Perfect for cozy nights, gatherings, or as a seasonal treat all year round, these cookies are simple to bake and endlessly customizable.

Ingredients

Scale

Apple Filling

  • 2 cups fresh apples (Granny Smith or preferred variety), peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)

Cookie Dough

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of ground cloves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apple Filling: Peel and finely chop the apples. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and add apples, cinnamon, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until apples are soft and tender. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  2. Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined without overmixing.
  4. Assemble the Cookies: Take a small spoonful of dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a small amount of cooled apple filling in the center, then cover with another spoonful of dough. Seal the edges gently to enclose the filling fully.
  5. Bake: Arrange the filled cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes or until edges turn golden.
  6. Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith for balanced sweetness and texture.
  • Do not overfill cookies to prevent leaking during baking.
  • If dough feels too soft, chill for 30 minutes before assembling.
  • Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies and consistent baking.
  • Watch baking time carefully; remove cookies as soon as edges turn golden to avoid dryness.
  • Sprinkle powdered or cinnamon sugar on top or drizzle with caramel or cream cheese glaze for added flavor.
  • Store leftover cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.
  • Freeze baked cookies in airtight containers for up to 2 months or unbaked dough balls on a tray before transferring to a zip-top bag.
  • Reheat cookies in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or briefly in the microwave to revive softness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Apple pie cookies, fall dessert, cinnamon cookies, apple dessert, cozy snack, gluten-free cookies, vegan options