When it comes to dessert, few things can evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia quite like apple pie. Yet, when you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s both fun to eat and easy to make, nothing beats the delightful charm of apple pie cookies. These bite-sized wonders capture the essence of traditional apple pie but in a more portable and playful format. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply want to indulge in a comforting snack at home, apple pie cookies are the perfect solution.
Why We Love This Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
You may ask yourself, what makes apple pie cookies so special? First and foremost, they bring together all the beloved flavors of a classic apple pie in a unique and hand-held shape. You can enjoy the sweet, spiced apple filling while savoring the buttery, flaky dough. They are also incredibly versatile; you can use different types of apples or spices to modify the flavor to your liking. Plus, they take significantly less time to prepare compared to a whole pie, making them a great choice for anyone who loves baking but is short on time. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or simply craving something sweet, apple pie cookies are sure to satisfy.
Ingredients about Apple Pie Cookies
To create these scrumptious cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 large apple, peeled and diced (choose your favorite type!)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
With these simple yet delightful ingredients, you can whip up a batch of apple pie cookies that will impress everyone.
How to Make Apple Pie Cookies Directions
Making apple pie cookies is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, gather your ingredients and prepare to dive into the joy of baking.
In a mixing bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Use a fork or your hands to mix everything until a smooth dough forms. The trick is to ensure that the butter is properly softened so it can blend seamlessly into the flour mixture, creating that perfect cookie dough texture.
Once your dough is ready, roll it out on a floured surface until it is about 1/4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter or a glass to cut circles out of the dough. You will need to make approximately two circles for each cookie, so plan on cutting more than you think you’ll need!
Next, in a separate bowl, combine your diced apple, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. This will create a delicious filling that is the star of your cookies. Spoon a small amount of the apple mixture onto half of the dough circles, being careful not to overfill them.
After adding the filling, place another circle of dough on top of each filled circle. Gently press down around the edges to seal them, and you can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch. It not only looks great but ensures the filling stays secure inside.
Arrange your cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. To give them a lovely golden finish, brush the tops with a beaten egg. Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll want to pull them out as soon as they turn golden brown.
Once they’re baked to perfection, allow them to cool on a wire rack for a bit. Then, they’re ready for you to enjoy the sweet, warm, and comforting taste of homemade apple pie cookies.
How to Serve Apple Pie Cookies
Serving apple pie cookies is part of the fun! These cookies can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a great treat for any occasion. You might want to dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. If you’re serving them at a gathering, arrange them on a platter; they’ll look inviting and festive!
For an extra special touch, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess complements the warm, spiced apple filling beautifully. You can also serve them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. The best part is you can simply grab one (or two) and enjoy them right from the platter, making them a fantastic dessert option for parties or casual family nights.
Expert Tips: Apple Pie Cookies
For perfect apple pie cookies, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor. Granny Smith apples add a nice tang, while Fuji or Honeycrisp apples bring sweetness.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough becomes too warm while working, don’t hesitate to place it in the refrigerator for a short while. A colder dough is easier to handle and results in flakier cookies.
- Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to add a lot of filling, but overfilling can lead to messy cookies that burst open during baking. A tablespoon is usually the right amount.
- Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is traditional, try adding nutmeg or allspice for an extra layer of flavor.
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep a close eye on the cookies, especially during the last few minutes of baking, to avoid overbaking them.
By following these tips, you will ensure that your apple pie cookies not only taste amazing but also have that beautiful homemade touch.
How to Store Apple Pie Cookies
To keep your apple pie cookies tasting fresh, storing them properly is essential. Once they have cooled completely, place the cookies in an airtight container. You can separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Stored this way, they can last up to a week at room temperature.
If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking tray and place them in the freezer until firm. Then, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They’ll stay good for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up again.
Variation of Apple Pie Cookies
One of the best aspects of apple pie cookies is their flexibility. Here are some variations you can try to switch things up:
- Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to your filling.
- Try Different Fruits: For a different flavor profile, you can substitute apples with pears or peaches.
- Incorporate Raisins or Dried Cranberries: These can add a nice burst of sweetness and texture in every bite.
- Switch Up the Spices: In addition to cinnamon, try adding a dash of ginger or cardamom for a different flavor twist.
- Glaze Instead of Egg Wash: Instead of brushing with egg, you can drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cookies after baking for an added touch of sweetness.
- Use Cookie Cutters: Instead of circles, experiment with different shapes like hearts or stars for festive occasions.
With these variations, you can create apple pie cookies that suit your taste or the season, keeping the joy of baking fresh and exciting.
FAQ
What are Apple Pie Cookies?
Apple pie cookies are bite-sized cookies that encapsulate the flavors of traditional apple pie in a playful and portable format.
How can I store leftover Apple Pie Cookies?
You can store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months.
Can I use other fruits in Apple Pie Cookies?
Yes! While apples are traditional, you can experiment with other fruits like pears or peaches for a different filling.
What’s the best way to serve Apple Pie Cookies?
You can serve them warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a scoop of ice cream on the side.
How long does it take to make Apple Pie Cookies?
From prep to bake, you can typically make apple pie cookies in about 45 minutes to an hour, making them a quick and delightful treat!
Apple Pie Cookies
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
For the Filling
- 1 large apple, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, salt, and cinnamon until a smooth dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut circles out of the dough using a cookie cutter or glass.
Filling
- In a separate bowl, combine the diced apple, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
- Spoon a small amount of the apple mixture onto half of the dough circles.
Assembly and Baking
- Place another circle of dough on top of each filled circle and gently press down to seal.
- Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
- Arrange cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with a beaten egg.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.
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