Craving a tasty treat that combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the fun of cookies? You’re in the right place! My savory apple pie cookies are easy to make and sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create delightful bites that capture the essence of fall. Let’s dive into the recipe and get ready to enjoy these sweet, warm delights!
Ingredients
List of Main Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Optional: egg wash, powdered sugar for dusting
The main ingredients for these cookies create a lovely blend of flavors. The flour gives the cookies their structure, while the sugar adds sweetness. Salt helps balance the flavors, and baking powder gives them a nice rise.
Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and spice. The butter adds richness, and the egg helps bind everything. The apples add a juicy sweetness and tartness, especially if you use Granny Smith. Lemon juice brightens the apple flavor and keeps them fresh. Brown sugar enhances the cookies with its deep, caramel notes.
For those wanting to mix things up, consider these optional ingredients for variations. You can use gluten-free flour for a different texture. Vegan butter is a great choice for a dairy-free version. You can also add spices like ginger or cloves for a unique twist.
These ingredients make the perfect base for delicious apple pie cookies. If you want to dive deeper into the full recipe, check out the link!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these ingredients well until they are blended.
– Incorporate butter and form dough: Next, take 1/2 cup of chilled, cubed unsalted butter. Add it to the flour mix. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. You should see small pea-sized pieces of butter.
Apple Preparation
– Toss apples with lemon juice: Peel, core, and dice 2 large apples. I prefer Granny Smith for their tartness. In a separate bowl, mix the diced apples with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This helps keep them fresh and adds flavor.
– Blend flavors: Add 1 tablespoon of packed brown sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg to the apples. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This step allows the apples to soak in all the yummy flavors.
Baking Process
– Preheat oven and roll out dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, roll out your dough on a floured surface. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter to cut out circles.
– Assemble and seal cookies: Place half of your dough circles on lined baking sheets. Spoon a generous teaspoon of the apple mixture onto each circle. Don’t overfill; just enough is perfect.
– Bake until golden brown: Top each filled circle with another dough circle. Press the edges together firmly. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a nice look. Bake your cookies for 15-18 minutes until they are puffed and edges are golden brown.
Once you try this full recipe, you’ll see how easy and tasty these apple pie cookies can be!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dough
To make the best dough for your apple pie cookies, start with the right amount of flour. If your dough feels sticky, add a little flour as needed. This helps you avoid sticky fingers and a messy counter. Aim for a soft but manageable dough. When you roll it out, it should not stick to your rolling pin or surface.
You want a dough that holds together but is not too tough. Mix until just blended for a light texture. Overworking the dough can make it tough, which isn’t what you want in a cookie.
Baking for Optimal Flavor
Baking time is key for these cookies. I suggest baking them for 15-18 minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on them. You want the edges to turn golden brown. If your oven runs hot or cold, you may need to adjust the time.
For convection ovens, reduce the baking time by a few minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps the cookies puff nicely. Always check for a light golden color and a slight spring when you touch the cookies.
Serving Suggestions
To make your apple pie cookies shine, dust them with powdered sugar after they cool. This adds a sweet touch and makes them look lovely.
For a fun twist, try adding a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. You can also plate them with thin apple slices for a colorful display. Let your creativity flow and impress your family and friends!
Variations
Gluten-Free Apple Pie Cookies
You can make these cookies gluten-free! To do this, use a gluten-free flour blend. Look for blends that have xanthan gum for best results. This will help mimic the texture of regular flour. You may also need to adjust baking times. Gluten-free cookies can bake quicker, so keep an eye on them. Check for a golden edge after about 12–15 minutes.
Vegan Apple Pie Cookies
If you want vegan cookies, you can easily swap out the eggs and butter. Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with two and a half tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about five minutes until it thickens. For butter, use vegan butter or coconut oil. You can also switch to maple syrup or agave for sweetening. Each gives a nice flavor without using animal products.
Flavor Enhancements
To take these cookies up a notch, think about adding nuts or raisins. Chopped walnuts or pecans give a nice crunch. You could also add a handful of raisins for extra sweetness. Another fun idea is to try different apple varieties. Each type gives a unique taste. Honeycrisp apples add sweetness, while Granny Smith offers a tart bite. Get creative and mix different apples for a fun twist!
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep your apple pie cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This method locks in moisture and flavor. You can use a plastic container or a glass jar with a lid. Make sure the cookies are completely cooled before sealing them.
Long-term Storage
If you want to save cookies for later, freezing is a great option. First, let the cookies cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. After they are firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Ensure you remove excess air from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to eat them, take the cookies out and let them thaw at room temperature. This keeps their taste and texture just right.
Shelf Life
Apple pie cookies last about a week at room temperature when stored correctly. In the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. Check for any signs of spoilage, like mold or an off smell. If they feel hard or dry, they may not taste good anymore. Always trust your senses to keep your treats safe!
FAQs
Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Yes, you can use many fruits! Pears, peaches, and berries work well too. Each fruit brings its own taste. For instance, pears add a sweet touch. Berries, like blueberries or raspberries, give a tart kick. Just make sure to adjust the sugar. You want the filling to taste just right. Experiment and find your favorite filling!
How can I make the cookies more crispy?
To make your cookies crispier, try a few simple tips. First, roll the dough thinner. A thinner dough bakes to a crisp finish. Second, bake them a little longer. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Lastly, let the cookies cool completely. This helps them harden and stay crispy. Enjoy that crunch!
What is the best way to reheat apple pie cookies?
Reheat your cookies in the oven for the best taste. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes. This warms them through and keeps them soft. If you’re in a hurry, use a microwave. Heat them for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the warm, gooey goodness!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the dough. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before using. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime! Check out the Full Recipe for more tips.
This blog post covered everything you need to make delicious apple pie cookies. We discussed the main ingredients like flour, apples, and spices. You learned the step-by-step process to mix, bake, and serve them. We also explored variations for gluten-free and vegan options, along with helpful storage tips.
Now you can enjoy these treats anytime. Baking apple pie cookies is fun and rewarding. Share this recipe with friends and savor the rewards together. Happy baking!
