Apple Crumb Cookies

Introduction

If you’re searching for a mouthwatering dessert that combines the warm, spiced flavors of fall with the beloved cookie form, Apple Crumb Cookies is your answer. This recipe offers the satisfaction of a fruit crumble in a compact, handheld treat. Imagine the comforting taste of apple pie paired with the crumbly, buttery goodness of streusel topping—all packed into a soft and chewy cookie. These cookies are the perfect indulgence for any season, but they truly shine as autumn-inspired treats perfect for gatherings, snacks, or quiet moments with a cup of coffee.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the cookies:

– All-purpose flour: 2 cups
– Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
– Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
– Ground nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon
– Salt: ¼ teaspoon
– Unsalted butter (softened): ½ cup
– Granulated sugar: 1 cup
– Light brown sugar: ½ cup
– Egg: 1 large
– Vanilla extract: 1½ teaspoons
– Finely chopped apples: 1½ cups

For the crumb topping:

– All-purpose flour: ⅔ cup
– Granulated sugar: ⅓ cup
– Ground cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon
– Cold unsalted butter (cubed): ¼ cup

For the glaze (optional):

– Confectioners’ sugar: ⅓ cup
– Milk: 1-2 teaspoons
– Vanilla extract: ¼ teaspoon

Prep Time

The preparation for these Apple Crumb Cookies is both straightforward and satisfying. You’ll start by preparing the crumb topping, which involves combining flour, sugar, and cinnamon before blending in cold butter to create a coarse, crumbly texture. Next, the cookie dough comes together by mixing standard pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and butter, and folding in freshly chopped apples for that signature fruity flavor.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

These cookies require about 15–16 minutes to bake to perfection. With preparation and baking combined, you’re looking at a total time of around 30 minutes. The recipe yields roughly 24 cookies, depending on the size of your scoops, making them the ideal batch for sharing—or for keeping all to yourself!

Enjoy creating and indulging in these delightful cookies that promise all the comforts of apple desserts in a convenient, delicious form!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel, core, and dice the apples into small cubes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples have softened and most of the liquid has evaporated, approximately 10 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the apple mixture to cool completely.

Make the Crumb Topping

1. In a medium bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add the melted butter and stir until crumbs form and the mixture is moistened evenly. Set aside.

Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the butter and both sugars until the mixture is fluffy and light, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix.

Assemble the Cookies

1. Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of cookie dough and roll it into a ball. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat for the rest of the dough, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.
2. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indention in the center of each cookie.
3. Fill each indention with a small amount of the cooled apple filling.
4. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the apples on each cookie, gently pressing it to ensure it adheres.

Bake and Cool the Cookies

1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the crumb topping is lightly golden.
2. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

The baked cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Apple Selection

Choose crisp, tart apples for a balanced flavor. Granny Smith apples work particularly well.

Crumb Topping

For the best results, ensure the crumb topping forms firm clusters. If it’s too dry or powdery, add a little more melted butter.

Optional Glaze

If desired, drizzle a simple vanilla glaze (made with powdered sugar and milk or cream) over the cooled cookies for added sweetness and presentation.

Cook Techniques

Using Cold Butter for the Crumb Topping

Cold butter is essential for achieving the perfect crumb topping texture. Using a pastry blender or a fork, cut the butter into the dry mixture until the crumbs are coarse and varied.

Chilling the Dough

To prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, ensure the dough is thoroughly chilled before scooping and baking.

Evenly Distribute Crumb Topping

To ensure every cookie has a generous amount of crumb topping, distribute the mixture evenly before baking, gently pressing it into the dough to help it adhere.

Measuring Flour Properly

Over-measuring flour can result in dense cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure: lightly spoon flour into the measuring cup and then level it with a straight edge.

Baking Time Monitoring

Keep a close watch as baking times can vary. The cookies should be lightly browned around the edges but still soft in the center for the perfect texture.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, you can use your preferred type of apples, but firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well because they hold their shape during baking.

Do I have to peel the apples before grating?

Peeling is not required but recommended for a smoother texture in the cookies.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

How should I store the cookies after baking?

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for a slightly longer shelf life.

Can I freeze the baked cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely before freezing and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

What should I do if the crumb topping starts to brown too quickly?

If the crumb topping starts to brown too fast, tent the baking sheet with foil to prevent over-browning while the cookies finish baking.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the crumb topping?

Absolutely. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts make a great addition to the crumb topping for added flavor and crunch.

Conclusion

These Apple Crumb Cookies are the perfect fusion of warm, spiced apples and buttery crumble, creating a wonderfully comforting treat that’s great for any occasion. Their soft texture paired with the slightly crisp crumb topping makes them a standout dessert. They embody all the flavors of fall in one compact, crave-worthy cookie. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a snack with a warm drink, these cookies are sure to delight apple dessert lovers.

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