Apple Pie Cookies: A Sweet and Cozy Bite-Sized Treat

These Apple Pie Cookies are the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of a classic apple pie in a bite-sized, hand-held form. With a buttery, cinnamon-sugar-coated cookie base and a warm, spiced apple filling, these cookies are bursting with comforting flavors. The tender apples, rich brown sugar, and warm cinnamon make every bite feel like a cozy fall day, while the soft, buttery cookie dough creates the perfect vehicle for this delicious filling. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just to satisfy your own sweet tooth, these apple pie cookies will become an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

You’ll love these cookies for their delightful combination of a soft cookie base and a gooey, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. They’re easy to make and provide all the warmth and flavor of traditional apple pie, but in a fraction of the time. The cookies are not overly sweet, allowing the natural flavor of the apples to shine through, and the cinnamon-sugar coating adds a lovely crispness to each bite. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or cooled, these cookies are a comforting, satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Perfect Occasion:

These apple pie cookies are perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or simply as a cozy dessert to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. They’re also great for bake sales, family get-togethers, or as a homemade gift for someone special. Their small size makes them ideal for snacking or sharing, and they’re easy to pack up and take on the go for picnics or lunchboxes. No matter the occasion, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Decoration Tips:

To make these cookies look even more inviting, dust them with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. You could also drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness and shine. If you want to get creative, garnish each cookie with a small cinnamon stick or a few thin apple slices to highlight the flavors inside. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side will elevate the experience and make these cookies feel even more like a mini apple pie.

Ingredients (for 12 Cookies):

For the Filling:

• 60g unsalted butter
• 1-2 apples (160g), peeled, cored, and diced
• 60g packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

For the Cookie Dough:

• 300g all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 225g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 70g packed brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 50g granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
   In a medium skillet, combine the butter, diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the butter and sugar have melted and the mixture starts to boil. Reduce the heat if necessary to maintain a gentle simmer. Continue cooking until the apples are softened and the liquid has reduced slightly.In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth, then add it to the apple mixture. Stir and cook until the filling thickens. Set aside and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
   Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.Gradually fold in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
   In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together. Using a large cookie scoop, portion out balls of dough and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Place the dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet.
4. Shape the Cookies:
   Using your thumb or the back of a measuring teaspoon, press down in the center of each cookie to create an indent. Fill the center of each cookie with about 1 teaspoon of the cooled apple filling.
5. Bake the Cookies:
   Bake the cookies for about 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges and the apple filling is bubbling. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   These cookies are best enjoyed slightly warm, but they are just as delicious when cooled. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Enjoy these delicious apple pie cookies, perfect for any occasion!