Apple Pie Cookies taste like apple pie in cookie form! An apple pie spiced cookie is filled with a tender apple filling and topped with a brown sugar crumble and finished with a drizzle of luscious salted caramel sauce. These cookies are the perfect fall treat – and taste just like mini apple pies! Perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or holiday celebrations, these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are sure to impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: The simple steps make these cookies approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Flavor Explosion: With spiced apple filling and rich salted caramel, every bite is a delightful experience.
- Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or just because you crave something sweet!
- Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough or filling in advance to save time on busy days.
- Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch to share with friends and family—everyone will want the recipe!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, gather the essential tools. These will help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cookie scoop
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar quick and easy, ensuring a fluffy texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to successful baking; using the right tools ensures consistency.
- Baking sheets: Essential for even baking; helps cookies spread properly without sticking.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup salted butter, softened at room temperature (226 grams)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled (390 grams)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
For the Apple Filling
- 4 large apples, peeled and diced (775 grams or 27 ounces of diced apple)
- 1/4 cup salted butter, cubed (4 tbsp)
- 2 tbsp apple cider(you can use 1 tsp of lemon juice if you don’t have any cider – note that this is NOT apple cider vinegar!)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 and 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
For the Salted Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar (206 grams)
- 6 tbsp salted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp heavy cream
- pinch of flaky sea salt (I love Maldon brand!)
For the Crumble Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 and 3/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp allspice
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 cup salted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 and 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3/4 tsp cinnamon
- pinch of salt
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium-high speed. Add the sugars and mix until creamed together with the butter, about 1 minute. Add the vanilla and eggs, mixing until just combined. Finally, add the dry ingredients last, mixing until a dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll into balls.
Make-Ahead Tip: Dough can be balled and frozen for up to 1 month before using. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
Rinse & peel your apples. Dice them into bite-sized chunks. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine all the apple filling ingredients. Cook for about 15 to 18 minutes while stirring occasionally. Taste around 15 minutes; finish cooking once desired tenderness is reached. Transfer mixture to a bowl to cool at room temperature or in the fridge.
Make-Ahead Tip: This can be done up to 2 days ahead; store in a jar in the fridge.
Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
Prepare your Salted Caramel Sauce according to an easy recipe that takes about ten minutes. Let cool at room temperature for around 20 minutes until thickened.
Make-Ahead Tip: Store cooled sauce in a jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough
Scoop dough into balls weighing approximately 65 grams each using a large cookie scoop. Place them in an airtight container to chill in the fridge for at least four hours or in the freezer for two hours.
Note: Ensure you scoop before chilling; if you chill solid first, scooping will be difficult.
Step 5: Make the Crumble
While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350° F. Melt butter in a medium mixing bowl, then stir in remaining streusel ingredients until crumbly. Crumble onto a parchment-lined pan; bake for about 12-14 minutes until golden brown. Set aside to cool.
Make-Ahead Tip: Store crumble topping at room temperature for one to two days or freeze it for one to two months.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven again, this time to 365° F. Line several cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and spices for coating. Roll chilled dough balls into this mixture before placing them on prepared sheets—about six cookies per sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers look slightly underdone.
Let rest on cookie sheet briefly before pressing an indent into centers with a tablespoon back. Cool slightly before transferring cookies onto wire racks until fully cooled.
Step 7: Assemble Cookies
Spoon apple pie filling into cooled cookies, sprinkle crumble topping generously over them, then drizzle warmed salted caramel sauce on top.
Step 8: Serve & Store
Enjoy these delicious cookies immediately once assembled! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for four to five days—while not recommended leaving out at room temp overnight due to fresh fruit content!
How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
With Hot Beverages
- Coffee: Pairing these cookies with a rich cup of coffee brings out the sweet flavors of caramel and apple.
- Tea: A warm herbal or chai tea complements the spices in the cookies beautifully.
- Hot Chocolate: Enjoying these cookies with hot chocolate makes for a comforting dessert.
As a Dessert Platter
- Cookie Assortment: Include other fall-flavored cookies alongside for variety, such as pumpkin spice or pecan cookies.
- Cheese Board: Add some mild cheeses that balance the sweetness, like Brie or Gouda, to create an interesting flavor combination.
Ice Cream Toppings
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Crumble the cookies over vanilla ice cream for a delicious sundae.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Add extra salted caramel sauce over ice cream for indulgence.
Festive Gatherings
- Holiday Parties: Present these cookies on decorative platters during festive occasions; they make great conversation starters.
- Gift Packaging: Pack them in cute boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family.
How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
To ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies turn out wonderfully every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and keeps the cookies thick and chewy.
- Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, crisp apples yield better flavor and texture in your filling.
- Check Doneness Carefully: Cookies should look puffy and slightly underdone in the center when you pull them from the oven; they will set while cooling.
- Customize Your Spices: Adjust spices according to taste; feel free to add more cinnamon or nutmeg for stronger flavors.
- Make Ahead Options: Prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Both can be stored in the fridge for convenience.
- Don’t Skip the Salted Caramel Sauce: The drizzle adds essential flavor and richness that ties all components together.
Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
Complement your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies with these delicious side dishes. They can elevate your dessert experience while adding balance to the meal.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider enhances the apple flavors in your cookies perfectly.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can provide a crunchy contrast to the soft cookies.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with caramel flavors for a well-rounded meal.
- Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup offers warmth and complements fall flavors wonderfully.
- Mashed Potatoes: The creaminess of mashed potatoes balances out the sweetness of your dessert course.
- Green Salad with Apples: A fresh salad with sliced apples adds brightness and crunch, making it a great side option.
- Caramelized Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts contrasts well with sweet desserts; try roasting them with balsamic glaze!
- Baked Pears with Cinnamon: These will echo your cookie’s flavors while providing another textural element to enjoy.
These side dishes not only enhance your cookie experience but also create a delightful dining atmosphere!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls will elevate your baking game and ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time.
- Boldly skimping on chilling time: Chilling the dough is essential for the right texture. If you skip this step, the cookies may spread too much during baking.
- Boldly overlooking apple quality: Using old or bruised apples can affect flavor. Always choose firm, fresh apples for the best filling.
- Boldly ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be lightly golden at the edges but puffy in the center when done.
- Boldly rushing assembly: Allow cookies to cool before adding filling and toppings. This prevents sogginess and helps maintain structure.
- Boldly mismeasuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are vital for baking success. Use a kitchen scale for precise results.
- Boldly skipping the salt: Salt enhances flavor, so don’t leave it out! A pinch of flaky sea salt on top elevates your cookies.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
- Keep layers of parchment paper between stacked cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 1 month.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper.
Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat, add a cookie, and cover for a couple of minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies.
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes! While Granny Smith apples are popular for their tartness, feel free to mix varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness.
How do I make my cookies thicker?
To achieve thicker cookies, chill the dough longer before baking and avoid overmixing after adding dry ingredients.
What can I use instead of salted butter?
You can use unsalted butter with an added pinch of salt if you prefer.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
How should I store leftover salted caramel sauce?
Store any leftover salted caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Final Thoughts
These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies offer a delightful twist on traditional flavors, making them perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in. Feel free to customize them with different spices or toppings based on your preferences!
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, a perfect fusion of classic apple pie and sweet cookie goodness. These delectable treats feature a spiced apple filling nestled within soft, chewy cookie dough, all topped with a crunchy brown sugar crumble and finished with a luscious drizzle of salted caramel sauce. Ideal for cozy gatherings or festive celebrations, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike. With their warm spices and rich flavors, they capture the essence of fall in every bite. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as part of a dessert platter—these cookies are versatile enough to suit any occasion.
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 and 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 4 large apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup salted butter, cubed
- 2 tbsp apple cider or 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 and 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
- 6 tbsp salted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp heavy cream
- pinch of flaky sea salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for crumble)
- 2 and 3/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp allspice
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 cup salted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 and 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 365°F (185°C).
- Cream butter and sugars together until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well.
- Combine dry ingredients; gradually add to wet mixture until combined. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the apple filling by cooking diced apples with butter, sugar, and spices until tender. Cool before using.
- Make salted caramel sauce: heat sugar in a saucepan until melted, then stir in butter and cream until smooth.
- Scoop chilled dough into balls and place on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers look slightly underdone.
- Once cooled, fill with apple mixture, top with crumble, and drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 50g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg