Apple Pie Cookies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert

Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert that many of us hold dear. Imagine the warm, comforting flavors of traditional apple pie, but in a convenient, bite-sized form! These cookies not only capture the essence of fall with their sweet and spiced apple filling, but they also bring a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of family gatherings and cozy evenings spent in the kitchen.

What I love most about Apple Pie Cookies is their perfect balance of taste and texture. The buttery, flaky crust envelops a luscious apple filling, creating a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a favorite for both seasoned bakers and those just starting out. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, Apple Pie Cookies are sure to bring smiles and warmth to any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)
• Additional granulated sugar for sprinkling

Preparing the Dough

1. In a medium bowl, I start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is crucial for the texture of the cookies. 2. In a large mixing bowl, I cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. I mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. 3. Next, I add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. I continue to mix until everything is well combined. 4. Gradually, I add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. I make sure not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. 5. Once the dough is ready, I cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, making it easier to handle later.

Preparing the Apple Filling

6. While the dough is chilling, I prepare the apple filling. I take my peeled and cored apple and dice it into small pieces. I prefer to use a tart apple like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. 7. In a medium bowl, I toss the diced apples with lemon juice, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The lemon juice prevents the apples from browning, while the cornstarch helps to thicken the filling as it cooks. 8. I set the apple mixture aside to let the flavors meld together while the dough continues to chill.

Assembling the Cookies

9. After 30 minutes, I take the dough out of the refrigerator. I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 10. On a lightly floured surface, I roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter (about 3 inches in diameter), I cut out circles from the dough. I usually get about 12-15 circles, depending on how much dough I have left over. 11. For each circle, I place about 1 tablespoon of the apple filling in the center. I make sure not to overfill, as this can cause the cookies to burst open while baking. 12. I then fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. I press the edges together to seal them, and I use a fork to crimp the edges for an extra decorative touch. 13. Once all the cookies are assembled, I place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie to allow for spreading. 14. To give the cookies a nice golden color, I brush the tops with a little milk and sprinkle some granulated sugar on top.

Baking the Cookies

15. I pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown. I keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. 16. Once they are done, I remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storing

17. These apple pie cookies are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature. I love to serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. 18. If I have any leftovers (which is rare!), I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up

Conclusion:

In summary, these Apple Pie Cookies are an absolute must-try for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of fall wrapped up in a delightful, portable treat. The combination of tender, buttery cookie dough and the warm, spiced apple filling creates a deliciously satisfying experience that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Plus, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings, making them an ideal dessert for potlucks, family get-togethers, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee on a cozy afternoon. If you want to mix things up, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top before baking for an extra touch of sweetness, or try incorporating nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. You can also experiment with different types of apples to find your favorite flavor profile—Granny Smith for tartness, or Honeycrisp for sweetness, the choice is yours! I encourage you to give these Apple Pie Cookies a try and share your experience with friends and family. I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own variations, I’m sure you’ll find these cookies to be a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the delicious aroma of freshly baked Apple Pie Cookies fill your home!

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