Apple Pie Cookies
These delightful Apple Pie Cookies combine everything you love about traditional apple pie in a convenient, handheld treat. With flaky, buttery crust and a spiced apple filling, these cookies deliver the perfect autumn dessert experience in just a few bites.
Easy Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
There’s something magical about the aroma of apple pie baking in the oven – it instantly transforms any home into a place of warmth and comfort. These Apple Pie Cookies capture that same homey feeling but in adorable, portable form. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with afternoon tea, these mini treats deliver all the satisfaction of a classic apple pie without the need for plates and forks.
What makes this Apple Pie Cookies recipe truly special is how it maintains the authentic taste of traditional apple pie while being much easier to share and serve. The buttery, flaky crust cradles a perfectly spiced apple filling, creating a delightful contrast of textures in every bite.
THIS RECIPE:
- Creates adorable mini apple pies in cookie form
- Uses fresh apples and warm autumn spices for authentic flavor
- Features a flaky, buttery crust that melts in your mouth
- Comes together in under 90 minutes (including cooling time)
| Recipe Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 40 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour |
| Servings | 24 cookies |
| Yield | 2 dozen cookies |
Don’t let the impressive appearance of these Apple Pie Cookies fool you – they’re surprisingly simple to prepare. Using store-bought pie crust as a shortcut option makes them accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The filling comes together quickly on the stovetop, allowing you to control the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this Apple Pie Cookies recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time.
Ingredients for Apple Pie Cookies
The secret to exceptional Apple Pie Cookies lies in selecting high-quality, fresh ingredients. The apples are undoubtedly the star of this recipe, so choosing the right variety makes all the difference in flavor and texture. Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp maintain their structure during baking while providing the perfect balance to the sweet elements.
For the Crust:
- 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought refrigerated)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
For the Apple Filling:
- 4 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons apple cider or milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
| Ingredient Category | Recommended Quantity | Quality Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Apples | 4 medium (about 1.5 pounds) | Choose firm, tart varieties like Granny Smith for structure or Honeycrisp for a balance of sweet-tart flavor |
| Pie Crust | 2 (9-inch) crusts | All-butter crusts provide the best flavor; if using store-bought, look for those made with butter rather than shortening |
| Spices | As listed above | Use freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg when possible for more vibrant flavor |
| Sweeteners | Brown and granulated sugar | Dark brown sugar adds deeper molasses notes; organic sugars often have more complex flavors |
How to Make Apple Pie Cookies
Creating these Apple Pie Cookies involves preparing a flavorful apple filling and assembling the cookies with decorative lattice tops – just like mini versions of a classic apple pie. The process is methodical but straightforward, allowing you to create bakery-worthy treats in your own kitchen.
Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, uniform cubes (about ¼-inch pieces).
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften but still maintain their shape.
- In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and lemon juice, then stir into the apple mixture.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and allow to cool completely before assembling the cookies.
Assemble and Bake the Apple Pie Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, unroll one pie crust and roll it slightly thinner with a rolling pin.
- Using a 3-inch round cookie cutter, cut out as many circles as possible (approximately 12).
- Transfer the circles to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of cooled apple filling in the center of each circle, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
- Roll out the second pie crust and cut it into ¼-inch strips for the lattice tops.
- Create a simple lattice pattern over each filled cookie by placing strips in a crisscross pattern.
- Trim any excess dough and gently press the edges to seal.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
- Brush each cookie with the egg wash and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro tip: If your apple filling becomes too juicy, strain some of the excess liquid before adding to the cookie bases to prevent soggy bottoms.
Tips for Making Apple Pie Cookies
Mastering the art of Apple Pie Cookies comes down to understanding a few key techniques that ensure bakery-quality results. These professional insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and create picture-perfect treats.
- Keep everything cold – Refrigerate the dough whenever it’s not being actively worked with to maintain flakiness.
- Cut uniform apple pieces – Dice apples into consistent sizes (about ¼-inch) to ensure even cooking and easy assembly.
- Don’t overfill – Limit filling to 1 tablespoon per cookie to prevent spillage during baking.
- Create steam vents – If not using a lattice top, be sure to cut small slits in the top crust to release steam.
| Technique | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Dough Handling | Work quickly and with cool hands; refrigerate dough between steps if it becomes too warm |
| Filling Consistency | Cook filling until slightly thickened but not dry; strain excess liquid if necessary |
| Assembly | Use a small offset spatula to transfer delicate dough pieces without stretching |
| Baking | Position rack in the center of the oven and rotate baking sheets halfway through cooking time |
When creating the lattice top, don’t worry about weaving an elaborate pattern – a simple crisscross of two or three strips creates the perfect miniature pie look. For clean edges, use a small round object (like a shot glass) to gently press and seal the lattice strips to the base crust before baking.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the greatest advantages of these Apple Pie Cookies is their flexibility for advance preparation. Breaking the process into manageable steps makes entertaining or holiday baking much less stressful.
The apple filling can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on baking day but allows the flavors to meld and develop more deeply. If the filling thickens too much while refrigerated, simply warm it slightly or add a teaspoon of apple juice to restore the proper consistency.
For partially prepared cookies, you can assemble them completely up to 24 hours before baking. Arrange the unbaked cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, apply the egg wash and sugar topping just before placing in the oven, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time to account for the chilled dough.
Fully assembled, unbaked cookies can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Freeze them solid on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. When ready to bake, place the frozen cookies directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, apply egg wash and sugar, and bake at 375°F adding 5-7 extra minutes to the baking time.
Storing Leftovers
Proper storage ensures your Apple Pie Cookies maintain their delightful texture and flavor for as long as possible. Follow these guidelines to enjoy these treats for days after baking.
At room temperature, store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They will maintain optimal freshness for 2-3 days. For the best texture, place a piece of bread in the container – it will release moisture to keep the cookies from drying out while absorbing any excess moisture that could make them soggy.
Refrigeration extends the shelf life of Apple Pie Cookies to 5-7 days. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. The refrigerator will firm the butter in the crust, so allow cookies to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for the best eating experience.
To refresh cookies that have lost some of their crispness, place them on a baking sheet in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This will revitalize the flaky texture of the crust without further cooking the filling.
Freezing Apple Pie Cookies
Freezing these Apple Pie Cookies is an excellent way to prepare for unexpected guests or satisfy sudden sweet cravings. When properly stored, they maintain remarkable quality even after freezing.
To freeze baked cookies, ensure they are completely cooled to room temperature first. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Properly stored, they will maintain quality for up to 3 months.
For the best protection against freezer burn, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing in freezer bags. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing.
When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for 1-2 hours. To restore their fresh-baked quality, warm them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. This gentle reheating crisps the crust while warming the filling to its original delicious state.
Serving Suggestions
These charming Apple Pie Cookies deserve to be showcased in ways that enhance their appeal and flavor. Consider these serving ideas to elevate your presentation.
For a simple but elegant dessert, serve warm Apple Pie Cookies on small plates with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a light drizzle of caramel sauce. The contrast of temperatures and the melding of flavors creates a memorable dessert experience. For added visual appeal, dust the plate with a light sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar.
These cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. Try serving them alongside:
- Hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks
- Vanilla chai tea
- Coffee with a splash of hazelnut creamer
- Bourbon or whiskey for an adult treat
For a festive holiday dessert board, arrange Apple Pie Cookies on a wooden serving platter alongside other complementary treats like maple candied walnuts, cubes of sharp cheddar cheese, and slices of fresh apples. This creates an interactive dessert experience that celebrates the classic pairing of apple pie and cheddar cheese in a new, sophisticated way.
FAQ
Can I use different types of apples in this Apple Pie Cookies recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different apple varieties or even use a mix for complex flavor. Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady work best as they hold their shape during cooking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet elements. Avoid softer varieties like McIntosh or Red Delicious, which tend to break down too much during baking.
Can I make these Apple Pie Cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute your favorite gluten-free pie crust (homemade or store-bought). The filling is naturally gluten-free as long as you verify your spices are processed in a gluten-free facility. Just be aware that gluten-free crusts may handle differently, so work carefully when cutting and transferring the dough.
Why did my cookie crusts get soggy?
Soggy crusts usually result from excess moisture in the filling. Make sure to cook the filling until thickened and allow it to cool completely before assembling. If your apple mixture seems very juicy, strain some liquid before using. Another tip is to lightly brush the bottom crust with beaten egg white before adding the filling – this creates a moisture barrier.
Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Yes! Try mixing in a few cranberries, raisins, or dried cherries for complementary flavors and additional texture. Just keep the total amount of filling the same to ensure proper cookie structure. A few tablespoons of chopped walnuts or pecans can also add delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the filling.
How do I know when the Apple Pie Cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the crust is golden brown, and you can see the filling bubbling slightly. The edges should be firm and set, with no raw-looking dough visible. If the edges are browning too quickly but the centers still look pale, tent the cookies loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
