Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

If you adore the comforting flavors of classic apple pie but want something a bit more bite-sized and fun, then this Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is going to become your new obsession. These delightful cookies combine the sweet, spiced charm of apple pie filling with a buttery, flaky crust, all wrapped up in a charming lattice design that’s just as pretty as it is delicious. Perfect for sharing at gatherings, gifting during holidays, or just sneaking a couple when no one’s watching, these Apple Pie Cookies deliver all the warmth and nostalgia of homemade apple pie in an irresistible, portable form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the taste and texture of this Apple Pie Cookies Recipe. Each component is simple but essential, balancing sweetness, spice, and that perfect golden crust.

• 21 ounces apple pie filling: Choose a chunky, well-spiced filling to ensure every bite bursts with cozy apple goodness.
• 1 package refrigerated pie crust (2 rolls): Ready-made crust saves time and offers the flaky, buttery base for your cookies.
• 1/3 cup caramel sauce: Adds a luscious layer of sweet richness that complements the apples beautifully.
• 1 egg (beaten): Acts as the glue for your egg wash, giving the cookies a glossy, golden finish.
• 1 teaspoon milk: Mixed with the egg for the egg wash to create a smooth coating.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: For sprinkling on top, it helps add sparkle and crunch.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings warm spice notes that highlight the apple flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Provides a subtle earthy spice that rounds out the cookie’s flavor profile.

How to Make Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Begin by letting your refrigerated pie crust thaw according to the package instructions. This step is crucial because working with dough at the right temperature makes handling a breeze and ensures a flaky texture after baking.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Surface

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, cover a 12-inch pizza pan or cutting board with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup simple.

Step 3: Roll Out the First Pie Crust

Unroll one crust onto your prepared surface and gently roll the edges to flatten them out a bit, creating a smooth base for the layers to come.

Step 4: Add the Caramel Layer

Spread the caramel sauce evenly over the entire surface of the crust. This layer is your secret weapon for adding luscious sweetness and a touch of gooey texture that ties everything together.

Step 5: Spread on the Apple Pie Filling

Distribute the chopped apple pie filling uniformly over the caramel so that each cookie will have a perfect balance of fruit and sauce.

Step 6: Prepare the Second Pie Crust

Roll out the remaining pie crust on a cutting board and lightly flatten the edges, just like with the first. This crust will become your beautiful lattice top.

Step 7: Create the Lattice Crust

Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the second crust into ¼ inch strips. Carefully weave or arrange these strips over the apple filling to make a classic lattice pattern. This will give your Apple Pie Cookies Recipe their signature look and ensure even baking.

Step 8: Cut Out Your Cookies

Take a 2 ½ inch round cookie cutter and stamp out cookies from the lattice-topped crust. Remove the leftover dough from around the cut cookies, then gently separate the cookies on the parchment so they don’t touch, allowing each to bake evenly and brown beautifully.

Step 9: Apply the Egg Wash

Whisk together the beaten egg and milk, then brush this glossy mixture over each cookie’s surface. This step helps achieve that golden, shiny finish everyone loves.

Step 10: Sprinkle with Sugar and Spices

Combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl, then generously sprinkle the mixture atop the cookies. The sugar thrills with sparkle and crunch, while the cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the cozy apple pie flavors.

Step 11: Bake to Perfection

Place your cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 24 to 25 minutes. The dough should be cooked through and the lattice top beautifully golden without burning.

Step 12: Cool and Transfer

Let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes on the pan to firm up, then carefully move them to a cooling rack to cool completely. This step prevents sogginess and helps maintain that crisp texture.

Step 13: Optional Caramel Drizzle

If you want to ramp up the decadence, drizzle a little extra caramel sauce over the cooled cookies right before serving; it’s an irresistible finishing touch that will impress everyone.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a few chopped toasted pecans sprinkled over the warm cookies adds elegance and texture without overpowering the star flavors of apple and caramel. Whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side instantly turns these cookies into a dessert sensation.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of hot tea, spiced chai, or a frothy latte. For a heartier option, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a wedge of sharp cheddar cheese for a surprising but perfect contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Apple Pie Cookies Recipe on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks for a festive touch. Wrapping a few cookies in clear cellophane tied with twine makes an adorable gift, while stacking them in a pretty tin creates a fun presentation for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, store your Apple Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them fresh while preserving the delightful crisp-flaky crust and moist apple filling.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies for longer storage by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their texture and flavor for up to 2 months.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy again, reheat the cookies in a preheated 300-degree oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This warms the apple filling and crisps the crust without drying out the cookies, giving you freshly baked taste every time.

FAQs

Can I use homemade apple pie filling for this Apple Pie Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade filling can add a lovely fresh flavor and lets you control the spice levels and sweetness. Just make sure your filling isn’t too runny to avoid soggy crusts.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the refrigerated pie crust with a gluten-free version. Be mindful that baking times might vary slightly, so watch the cookies closely as they bake.

Can I prepare these cookies ahead of time and bake later?

You can assemble the cookies up to the point of baking, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake them fresh the next day for the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to achieve a crisp lattice topping?

Brushing the egg wash evenly over the lattice and sprinkling the sugar-spice mixture generously creates that perfect shiny, crunchy finish.

How do I avoid the filling leaking during baking?

Make sure to evenly distribute the filling and use a lattice top rather than a solid crust to allow steam to escape. Also, don’t overfill the cookies, which helps keep everything neatly inside.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about turning an all-time favorite dessert into a fun, handheld treat, and this Apple Pie Cookies Recipe does exactly that with so much heart and flavor. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in, a festive gathering, or a thoughtful homemade gift, these cookies will bring joy and warmth to anyone lucky enough to taste them. So grab that pie crust, unwrap the caramel, and dive into a batch of these charming delights—you won’t regret it!

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