Indulge in the delightful fusion of apple pie and cookies with our scrumptious Apple Pie Cookies recipe. These delectable treats offer the warm, comforting flavors of a traditional apple pie in a convenient, bite-sized form. With a buttery crust, luscious apple filling, and a touch of cinnamon, these cookies are the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spiced goodness. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a cozy treat, these Apple Pie Cookies are sure to impress.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Serving: 24 cookies
- Yield: 2 dozen
- Calories: Approximately 140 calories per cookie
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3:
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
Step 4:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Set aside.
Step 5:
In another bowl, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Toss until the apples are evenly coated with the spices.
Step 6:
Take about a tablespoon of the cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a small amount of the spiced apple mixture in the center of the dough. Fold the dough over the apple filling, gently sealing the edges to form a cookie shape. Repeat with the remaining dough and apple filling.
Step 7:
Arrange the filled cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie for slight spreading.
Step 8:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges.
Step 9:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Tips and Tricks:
- For a buttery and flaky crust, make sure the butter is softened but not melted.
- Dice the apples into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution of flavor in each cookie.
- Sprinkle a touch of granulated sugar on top of the cookies before baking to add a subtle crunch and extra sweetness.
- Serve the Apple Pie Cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert pairing.
- Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 140 calories per cookie
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
Final Thoughts:
These Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic apple pie, offering all the flavors you love in a portable and bite-sized treat. The buttery crust, tender apple filling, and aromatic spices come together to create a truly irresistible cookie. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring joy and satisfaction. So, grab your apron, gather the ingredients, and embark on a delightful baking adventure with our Apple Pie Cookies recipe.
FAQ
Q1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe?
A1. Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste of the cookies may be slightly different.
Q2. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe?
A2. While unsalted butter is recommended for better control over the salt content, you can use salted butter in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe. Just reduce the added salt in the recipe by half to balance the saltiness.
Q3. Can I use different varieties of apples for the filling in Apple Pie Cookies?
A3. Absolutely! You can use your favorite apple varieties for the filling in Apple Pie Cookies. Tart and crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well, but feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures.
Q4. Can I freeze the Apple Pie Cookies?
A4. Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled Apple Pie Cookies. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating the layers with parchment paper. Thaw them at room temperature or reheat them slightly in the oven before serving.
Q5. Can I add nuts or raisins to the cookie dough in Apple Pie Cookies?
A5. Certainly! If you enjoy the added crunch and texture, you can incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough in Apple Pie Cookies. Raisins or dried cranberries can also be a delightful addition for those who enjoy fruity bursts in their cookies.
Q6. Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time and bake it later for Apple Pie Cookies?
A6. Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking Apple Pie Cookies. Just make sure to tightly wrap the dough in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Q7. Can I use pre-made pie crust instead of making the cookie dough from scratch in Apple Pie Cookies?
A7. Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made pie crust for the Apple Pie Cookies. Roll out the pie crust, cut it into circles, and follow the remaining steps of the recipe as instructed.
Q8. Can I add a glaze or frosting to the Apple Pie Cookies?
A8. While Apple Pie Cookies are delicious on their own, you can certainly drizzle a simple glaze or spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top for an extra touch of sweetness and decoration.
Q9. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe?
A9. Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your preferences in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe. However, keep in mind that sugar plays a role in the texture and moisture of the cookies. Reducing it too much may affect the final result.
Q10. Can I use margarine instead of butter in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe?
A10. While butter is recommended for its flavor and texture in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe, you can use margarine as a substitute. However, keep in mind that the taste and texture of the cookies may differ slightly.
Q11. Can I use lemon zest instead of lemon juice in the apple filling for Apple Pie Cookies?
A11. Yes, you can use lemon zest instead of lemon juice in the apple filling for Apple Pie Cookies. The zest will add a bright and citrusy flavor to complement the apples.
Q12. Can I add a sprinkle of sugar and cinnamon on top of the cookies before baking Apple Pie Cookies?
A12. Absolutely! Adding a sprinkle of sugar and cinnamon on top of the cookies before baking Apple Pie Cookies will enhance the flavors and create a beautiful golden crust.
Q13. Can I make mini-sized Apple Pie Cookies?
A13. Yes, you can make smaller-sized cookies by using less dough and filling for Apple Pie Cookies. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as smaller cookies may require less time in the oven.
Q14. Can I use a food processor to make the cookie dough for Apple Pie Cookies?
A14. Yes, you can use a food processor to make the cookie dough for Apple Pie Cookies. Pulse the dry ingredients together, add the butter, and process until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Then add the remaining wet ingredients and pulse until a dough forms.
Q15. Can I add a pinch of salt to the apple filling in Apple Pie Cookies?
A15. Yes, you can add a pinch of salt to the apple filling in Apple Pie Cookies. A small amount of salt enhances the flavors and helps balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Q16. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe?
A16. Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste of the cookies may be slightly differentQ17. Can I make the Apple Pie Cookies gluten-free?
A17. Yes, you can make the Apple Pie Cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to check that all the ingredients you use, including the pie crust if using, are gluten-free.
Q18. Can I use a different fruit filling instead of apples in the Apple Pie Cookies?
A18. Absolutely! While the recipe is called “Apple Pie Cookies,” you can experiment with different fruit fillings. Try using peaches, berries, or even a combination of fruits to create your own unique flavor.
Q19. Can I use a different shape for the cookies instead of circles in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe?
A19. Yes, you can get creative with the shape of the cookies in the Apple Pie Cookies recipe. Instead of circles, you can use cookie cutters in various shapes like hearts, stars, or even apple-shaped cutters to match the theme.
Q20. Can I serve the Apple Pie Cookies with ice cream or whipped cream?
A20. Absolutely! Serving the Apple Pie Cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream is a delightful way to enjoy them. The cold and creamy addition pairs well with the warm and spiced flavors of the cookies.
