Apple Pie Cookies are the perfect bite-sized version of the classic American dessert. Featuring a spiced apple filling and a buttery, flaky crust, these cookies offer all the warmth and flavor of traditional apple pie in a handheld form.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are a creative and fun twist on a well-loved dessert. They’re ideal for gatherings, holiday platters, or simply as a cozy treat with your afternoon tea. Easy to make and easier to eat, they combine crisp crust, tender apples, and warm spices in every bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- Apples, peeled and finely chopped
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Cornstarch
- Lemon juice
- Egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: caramel sauce for drizzling
Directions
- Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a saucepan, combine chopped apples, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and apples soften slightly. Let cool. - Roll and Cut the Dough:
Roll out pie crusts on a floured surface. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter or glass. - Assemble the Cookies:
Place a small amount of apple filling on half of the dough rounds.
Top with another round and seal the edges with a fork.
Cut a small slit on top for steam to escape. - Bake:
Brush the tops with egg wash. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. - Cool and Serve:
Let cool slightly. Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired before serving.
Servings and Timing
Makes about 12–16 cookies
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for crunch.
- Sprinkle tops with cinnamon sugar before baking for extra flavor.
- Use puff pastry instead of pie dough for a flakier texture.
- Replace apples with pears or peaches for a seasonal twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to crisp up the crust.
FAQs
Can I use canned pie filling?
Yes, but fresh apple filling provides a better texture and flavor.
Do these cookies freeze well?
Yes, freeze baked cookies for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven before serving.
What apples are best for this recipe?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples are excellent choices.
Can I make the dough from scratch?
Absolutely. Use your favorite pie crust recipe.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Don’t overfill and be sure to seal the edges well with a fork.
Can I make them in advance?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate unbaked cookies up to a day ahead.
What’s the best size for cookie cutters?
2.5 to 3 inches in diameter works well for handheld size.
Do I need to cook the apples first?
Yes, cooking helps thicken the filling and soften the apples.
Can I serve these warm?
Yes, they are delicious warm, especially with ice cream or caramel.
How can I make these gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful and charming way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie. With their flaky crust and sweet, spiced filling, they are sure to become a new favorite for dessert lovers of all ages.
PrintThese pumpkin cream cheese bars are soft, spiced, and swirled with tangy cream cheese frosting—perfect for fall gatherings or cozy dessert cravings!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: : 30 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: Dessert
- Category: Baking
- Method: American
Ingredients
-
1 cup pumpkin puree
-
2 eggs
-
1/2 cup brown sugar
-
1/4 cup oil
-
1 tsp vanilla
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
1/2 tsp baking soda
-
1/2 tsp cinnamon
-
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 pan with parchment.
-
Mix pumpkin layer ingredients and pour into pan.
-
Blend cream cheese layer and spread over pumpkin base.
-
Swirl gently with a knife and bake 25–30 mins.
-
Cool, slice, and dust with cinnamon if desired.
Notes
-
Store in fridge up to 5 days.
-
Add pecans for crunch!