Apple Pie Cookies
Introduction
If you’re a fan of classic apple pie but are looking for a unique twist, apple pie cookies might just become your new favorite dessert. These miniature treats pack all the flavors of traditional apple pie into a bite-sized cookie form. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just satisfying a sweet craving, these cookies are fun to make and even more fun to eat.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Ingredients for the Cookies:
– Refrigerated pie crusts (2 sheets)
– Apple pie filling (1 cup, finely chopped)
– Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
– Granulated sugar (3 tablespoons)
– All-purpose flour (for dusting, optional)
Egg Wash:
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon water
Optional Topping:
– Coarse sugar for sprinkling
Prep Time
Preparing apple pie cookies requires about 20 minutes. Most of this time will be spent rolling out and assembling the cookie layers, ensuring every bite gets that perfect balance of flaky crust and delicious apple filling.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The bake time for these cookies is approximately 12–15 minutes at 375°F. Including both preparation and cooking, the total time comes to roughly 35 minutes. This recipe yields around 10–12 apple pie cookies, depending on the size of your cookie cutter. It’s a quick and simple treat perfect for any occasion.
Apple pie cookies are a charming and fun dessert that combines convenience with the nostalgic flavors of a comforting homemade pie. Whether you’re enjoying these with a warm cup of coffee or sharing them with loved ones, they are sure to impress!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Pie Dough
– Roll out one sheet of pie dough onto a lightly floured surface. Ensure the dough is thin but not so thin that it’s fragile.
– Use a round cookie cutter (approximately 2 ½ -inch diameter) to cut out as many dough circles as possible.
– Place each dough circle onto a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
Prepare the Apple Filling
– Peel, core, and finely dice an apple into small pieces.
– In a small bowl, combine the diced apple with 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
– Toss the ingredients together until the apple pieces are evenly coated.
Add Apple Filling to Dough Circles
– Place a small amount of the prepared apple filling into the center of half of the dough circles on the baking sheet.
– Be cautious not to overfill, as this may cause the filling to spill out during baking.
Prepare Top Pie Dough Circles
– Using a sharp knife or small cookie cutter, create a few slits or decorative designs on the remaining half of the dough circles. This allows steam to escape during baking.
– Place the prepared dough circle with the slits on top of each dough circle containing apple filling.
– Use your fingers to gently press around the edges to seal. Then, crimp the edges with a fork for a secure and decorative seal.
Egg Wash and Sugar Topping
– In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
– Lightly brush the top of each assembled pie cookie with the egg wash.
– Sprinkle granulated sugar or coarse sugar over the top for a sparkling finish.
Bake the Cookies
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
– Bake the apple pie cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
– Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy
– Serve the cookies warm or at room temperature. Optionally, enjoy them with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel.
Notes
Using Store-Bought Dough
If you’re using store-bought pie dough, allow it to come to room temperature so it’s easier to work with and roll out.
Variations in Filling
You can adjust the apple filling based on preference. For a sweeter cookie, use more sugar. For a spicier flavor, add additional cinnamon or try nutmeg.
Making Ahead
You can prepare the assembled, unbaked pie cookies a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake when ready.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the cookies in a preheated 300°F (149°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispness.
Freezing
Apple pie cookies can be frozen either baked or unbaked. Store them in a single layer in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper. If unbaked, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Cook Techniques
How to prepare the pie crust
Using pre-made pie crusts considerably simplifies the recipe. Let them come to room temperature before you begin so they are easy to roll out and shape.
Cutting the pie crust into circles
Use a 2 ½ inch circle cookie cutter to cut out even circles from the pie crust. Ensure all cutouts are close together to maximize the crust’s use and avoid waste.
Adding apple pie filling
Chop the apple pie filling into small pieces for even distribution in the cookie layers. Smaller chunks ensure every bite is flavorful.
Assembling the cookies
Place spoonfuls of the apple pie filling onto half of the pie crust circles and top each with another crust. Press the edges together tightly with a fork to seal them properly.
Adding the lattice design
Slice the additional pie crust into strips and layer them over the top of your cookies in a lattice pattern for a decorative touch. Make sure you press the strips firmly at the edges to keep them in place.
Egg wash application
Brush the top of the cookies with a mixture of egg and water. This step ensures the pie cookies bake with a golden appearance.
Sprinkling sugar
Before baking, sprinkle each cookie with a touch of coarse sugar for texture and added sweetness.
Baking the cookies
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven as indicated in the recipe until they turn golden brown.
FAQ
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Yes, you can use homemade pie crust if you prefer. It may take a little extra time, but the results will still be delicious.
Do I need to chill the cookies before baking?
No, there’s no need to chill the cookies before baking them. They can go directly into the oven after assembly.
Can I use a different fruit filling?
Absolutely. You can swap the apple pie filling for another fruit filling of your choice like cherry or blueberry for a different flavor.
What size cookie cutter should I use?
A 2 ½ inch circle cookie cutter is recommended to make adequately sized cookies.
How should I store the leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for extended freshness.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, these cookies can be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
How can I reheat the cookies?
Reheat the cookies in a 350°F oven for a few minutes or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Do I need to peel the apples in the pie filling?
If you are making your own apple pie filling, it’s recommended to peel the apples for a smoother texture, but this step is not necessary for store-bought filling.
Conclusion
Apple pie cookies are the perfect bite-sized dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of a classic apple pie with a fun and portable cookie format. They are great for sharing during the holiday season, parties, or just as a sweet treat you can enjoy anytime. With their flaky crust, cinnamon-spiced filling, and sweet glaze, they are sure to become a favorite dessert for everyone.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mini Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Consider making mini pumpkin pie cookies for a seasonal alternative. Similar to the apple pie version, these could use pumpkin pie spice for a warm and cozy treat.
Peach Pie Cookies
Try peach pie cookies featuring fresh peach slices or peach jam for a fruity twist. These are perfect for summertime desserts.
Caramel Apple Cookies
Take your apple pie cookies up a notch by drizzling or filling them with caramel for a rich combination of flavors.
Cheesecake Cookies
Experiment with cheesecake-flavored cookies with a creamy filling that pairs perfectly with a flaky exterior.
Berry Pie Cookies
Switch up the flavors by using mixed berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries as the filling for a vibrant and juicy option.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Pies
Combine the buttery softness of a chocolate chip cookie with a pie crust to create a decadent dessert.
Pecan Pie Cookies
For nut lovers, turn the classic pecan pie into bite-sized cookies by adding a rich pecan and caramel filling.
Maple Glazed Cookies
Use a maple glaze over the cookies for a fall-inspired treat packed with warm, sweet flavors.
Spiced Pear Cookies
Turn pears into the star ingredient by creating spiced pear cookies filled with cinnamon and nutmeg for an inventive dessert idea.
