Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic apple pie. These cookies combine the rich, buttery flavor of pie crust with a sweet, spiced apple filling. Each bite offers a comforting taste of fall, making them perfect for any season. They are easy to make, fun to eat, and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. With a combination of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are a hit for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon snack.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this Apple Pie Cookies recipe for several reasons. First, they embody the comforting flavor of apple pie without the need for a pie dish. Second, the process is simple, allowing anyone to make them successfully, even those who are new to baking. The sweet and tart apples, paired with a buttery crust, create a delicious treat that everyone will adore. Finally, these cookies are versatile; you can serve them as a dessert, snack, or even at a party. The added glaze gives them a beautiful finish, making them perfect for special occasions.
HOW TO MAKE Apple Pie Cookies
Making Apple Pie Cookies is simple and enjoyable. Follow the steps laid out below, and you will have a delicious batch of cookies ready to share or enjoy by yourself. Each step is easy to follow, ensuring that even beginner bakers can have success.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make Apple Pie Cookies, you will need the following equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Small bowl
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- 3-inch round cookie cutter
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Fork
- Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 Tbsp. salted butter
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 Tbsp. apple juice or cider (or use water)
- 1 Tbsp. cornstarch
- 1 (14-ounce) package refrigerated pie dough (2 crusts)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 teaspoons heavy cream
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your Apple Pie Cookies:
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat.- Once melted, add the diced apples. Cook the apples for about 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the brown sugar and lemon juice. Continue to cook, bringing the mixture to a simmer, until the apples are soft, about 3 to 4 more minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the apple juice and cornstarch. Add this mixture to the apples in the pan.
- Stir and cook for about 1 more minute until the mixture thickens. Remove the pan from heat and let it cool.
- Prepare the Dough:
Start preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.- Roll out one piece of pie dough to form a 12-inch round.
- Use a 3-inch cutter to cut out 12 small rounds and place these on the baking sheet.
- Re-roll the dough scraps and cut out 2 more rounds.
- Roll the second piece of dough into another 12-inch round. Cut this into ½-inch wide strips. Then, cut the strips into pieces about 3.5 to 4 inches long, which should give you about 56 pieces.
- Assemble the Cookies:
- Place the dough rounds on the prepared baking sheet.
- In the center of each round, place 1 tablespoon of the cooled apple mixture.
- Take two dough strips and lay them parallel over the filling. Then, lay two more strips perpendicular to the first two to create a lattice pattern. Alternatively, you can weave the strips for a decorative touch.
- Trim the edges of the strips and use a fork to press around the edges to seal.
- Bake the Cookies:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 18 to 20 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown.- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a rack.
- Prepare the Glaze:
For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and optional cardamom together in a small bowl.- Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cookies for a sweet finish.

HOW TO SERVE Apple Pie Cookies
Apple Pie Cookies are perfect served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy them plain or topped with the sweet glaze. These cookies also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a cozy treat, serve them with a warm cup of cider or hot chocolate.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Apple Pie Cookies
To store your Apple Pie Cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Allow them to cool completely and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. These cookies can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
When serving Apple Pie Cookies, consider pairing them with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Fresh whipped cream
- A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg
- A drizzle of caramel sauce
- Coffee or tea for a cozy drink option
VARIATIONS
Feel free to customize your Apple Pie Cookies with these variations:
- Different Fruits: Replace apples with pears, peaches, or berries for a different flavor.
- Spices: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the apple mixture for extra warmth.
- Nuts: Mix chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the apple filling for added texture.
- Cheese: Incorporate cream cheese into the glaze for a tangy twist.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples. Just ensure you thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking them. - What type of apples are best for Apple Pie Cookies?
Sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well for this recipe. - Can I make the dough from scratch instead of using store-bought pie dough?
Yes, if you prefer, you can make your own pie dough using flour, butter, and water. - How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be golden brown and the filling should be bubbly. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Apple Pie Cookies
You can prepare many components of the Apple Pie Cookies in advance. Here are some tips:
- Apple Filling: Cook the apple filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it cool before storing.
- Dough: You can roll out the dough and cut the rounds and strips in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, separated by parchment paper, until you are ready to assemble and bake.
- Freezing: Unbaked cookies can be frozen. Assemble the cookies and place them on a baking sheet. Once they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Making Apple Pie Cookies is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. With simple steps and ingredients, anyone can create these delicious treats that bring joy to both the maker and the eater. Enjoy your baking adventure!
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Apple Pie Cookies
Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on classic apple pie, combining buttery pie crust with a sweet, spiced apple filling.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp. salted butter
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 Tbsp. apple juice or cider (or use water)
- 1 Tbsp. cornstarch
- 1 (14-ounce) package refrigerated pie dough (2 crusts)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 teaspoons heavy cream
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced apples and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the brown sugar and lemon juice, and bring to a simmer until the apples are soft, about 3 to 4 more minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together apple juice and cornstarch, then add it to the apples and cook for 1 more minute until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out one piece of pie dough to form a 12-inch round, and cut out 12 small rounds using a 3-inch cutter. Place rounds on the baking sheet.
- Re-roll the scraps to cut out 2 more rounds, and roll the second piece of dough into another 12-inch round to create ½-inch wide strips cut to 3.5 to 4 inches long.
- Place 1 tablespoon of the cooled apple mixture in the center of each dough round.
- Lay two dough strips parallel and two more strips perpendicular over the filling to create a lattice pattern. Trim edges and seal with a fork.
- Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool on a rack.
- For the glaze, mix powdered sugar, heavy cream, and optional cardamom in a bowl and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Notes
Serve warm or at room temperature; pairs well with ice cream or cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: apple pie cookies, dessert, fall treats, baking, cookies
