These Apple Pie Cheesecake Cookies combine everything you love about apple pie and cheesecake in a delightful cookie form. With a cinnamon-spiced cookie base, a swirl of tangy cream cheese frosting, tender apple pie filling, and a drizzle of rich caramel, these cookies are a cozy treat perfect for autumn. The layers of flavor and texture make every bite a delicious experience, blending sweet, spiced, and creamy elements seamlessly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are the ultimate fusion of two classic desserts—apple pie and cheesecake—wrapped up in one decadent treat. The soft, cinnamon-spiced cookie is packed with warmth, while the cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy contrast to the sweetness. The real star, though, is the homemade apple pie filling, with tender, caramelized apples that bring a comforting, familiar flavor. These cookies are perfect for fall, but they’re so delicious you’ll want to bake them all year round. Whether you’re an apple pie lover or cheesecake fan, these cookies will satisfy both cravings in one bite.
The Perfect Occasion
These cookies are ideal for autumn gatherings, holiday parties, or as a cozy weekend baking project. Their layered flavors and beautiful presentation make them perfect for Thanksgiving dessert spreads, cookie exchanges, or any occasion where you want to impress with something homemade. They’re also great for gifting—just pack them up in a festive tin, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade present. With their inviting flavors, these cookies will be a hit at any event.
Decoration Tips
For an extra special touch, drizzle the finished cookies with caramel sauce to enhance the apple pie filling. You could also sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon or some finely chopped toasted pecans on top for added texture and flavor. If you’re making these cookies for a special occasion, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving to give them a more elegant, bakery-style appearance. For a holiday twist, you could even garnish with small edible gold flakes or a bit of grated nutmeg for a festive finish.
Ingredients
Apple Pie Filling:
- 3 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped (about 3 apples)
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (28g)
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed (71g)
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/16 tsp ground nutmeg
Cookies:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (210g)
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 10 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened (141g)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed (71g)
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened (56g)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (113g)
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups powdered sugar (170 to 227g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Apple Pie Filling
In a medium-sized pan, combine the chopped apples, butter, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork (about 10-12 minutes).
Set the apple pie filling aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the dough and place it on the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a small bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined and fluffy.
Transfer the frosting to a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with the tip cut off.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, pipe a swirl of cream cheese frosting onto each one.
Top each frosted cookie with a spoonful of the cooled apple pie filling.
Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired, and serve!
Enjoy!
These Apple Pie Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect combination of warm cinnamon-spiced cookies, tangy cream cheese frosting, and sweet, tender apple filling. Whether you enjoy them with a drizzle of caramel or on their own, they’re a delicious treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
