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There’s nothing quite like the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen, and when those cookies are infused with the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie, you know you’re in for a treat. Picture this: it’s a crisp autumn afternoon, the sun is shining, and the golden leaves dance in the breeze as you whip up a batch of Apple Pie Cookies. Just the thought of tender cookie dough filled with spiced apples and topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar makes my heart skip a beat.

These delightful little pockets of joy bring together all the beloved elements of a classic apple pie but with the convenience and fun of a cookie. They’re incredibly easy to make and utterly customizable—perfect for impressing guests at a gathering or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea on a cozy evening at home. Each bite is a delightful mix of chewy goodness and tender fruitiness, reminding us that simple ingredients can make some of the most unforgettable desserts. Ready to elevate your cookie game? Let’s dive into this scrumptious Apple Pie Cookies recipe!

Why Love Apple Pie Cookies?

Irresistible aroma: The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg infuse your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these cookies without any fuss.
Customizable goodness: Swap in your favorite fruits or add nuts for a unique twist.
Perfect anytime: Whether for a fall gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser.
Memorable experiences: Share them with family and friends, creating sweet memories over a warm batch of homemade treats.
Enjoy them with a cup of tea by trying my ultimate guide on tea pairings for the perfect cozy experience!

Essential Apple Pie Cookies Ingredients

• Gather the following ingredients for a delightful baking experience:

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose Flour – Provides the structure; for a gluten-free option, use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; you can substitute with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Butter – Adds richness; use unsalted for better control over saltiness, or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and caramel flavor; dark brown sugar will intensify the taste.
Eggs – Acts as a binding agent; flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative.
Baking Powder – Works to leaven the dough; be sure it’s fresh for best results.
Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; don’t skimp on this classic flavor—it’s essential for apple pie.

For the Apple Filling

Apples – Fresh, peeled and diced; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work perfectly for a balance of tart and sweet flavors.
Brown Sugar – Enhances the sweetness of the apples; can adjust based on tartness of the apples you choose.
Ground Cinnamon – Perfect match with apples; feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Lemon Juice – Brightens the apple flavor; prevents browning and adds a zesty kick to the filling.
Cornstarch – Helps to thicken the filling; ensures a non-runny texture when biting into the cookies.

For the Topping

Cinnamon Sugar – A mixture of cinnamon and sugar that creates a sweet, crunchy topping; sprinkle generously for a delightful finish.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to create delicious Apple Pie Cookies full of warm flavors and sweet memories!

How to Make Apple Pie Cookies

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the dough.
Cream Butter & Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will help to create a cohesive dough that holds everything together beautifully.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cookie!
Fold in Apples: Gently fold the apple filling into the dough until evenly distributed. The bits of spiced apples should be visible throughout the dough.
Scoop Dough: Drop tablespoons of the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each scoop to allow for spreading.
Sprinkle Topping: Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the tops of the cookie dough mounds before baking. This adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the final product.
Bake: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. Don’t overbake for a chewy texture!
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps to lock in moisture!

Optional: For an extra touch, drizzle a simple icing over the cooled cookies.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Apple Pie Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your apple pie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them soft and fresh.
Fridge: If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 1 week; just be sure to use a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your apple pie cookies in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. This revives their delicious, chewy texture!

Sweet Apple Pie Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delectable cookies with your favorite flavors and ingredients!

Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that pairs beautifully with the apple filling.
Fruit Medley: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins alongside the fresh apples for a chewy texture and a burst of different flavors.
Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cookies before serving for an indulgent touch that elevates the apple pie experience.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute regular butter with coconut oil and use aquafaba instead of eggs to create a vegan version that retains all the deliciousness.
Zesty Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the dough for a bright, zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make these cookies accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Cheesecake Cookies: Mix in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese into the dough for creamy apple pie cookies that have a rich, cheesecake-like texture.

These variations are bound to make your baking adventures even more delightful—enjoy exploring the possibilities!

What to Serve with Apple Pie Cookies?

There’s nothing like a delightful apple-infused treat paired with comforting sides to create a warm, inviting experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the warm spices and tender apples in the cookies, adding a delightful contrast. Imagine taking a bite of the warm cookie paired with a scoop of melting ice cream—pure bliss!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over your apple pie cookies enhances their flavor and adds a luscious touch. The combination of sweet apple and rich caramel is like autumn captured in every bite.
Hot Tea: A steaming cup of spiced chai or Earl Grey tea adds warmth that complements the cookies beautifully. The aromatic notes of tea mingling with the apple flavors make for a cozy pairing.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream is a lovely addition that balances out the cookie’s richness. It’s an easy way to elevate your dessert experience while adding that perfect touch of creaminess.
Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: For a decadent treat, serve your cookies with a cozy cup of cinnamon hot chocolate. The smooth chocolate and spice will enhance the cookie experience, making it a favorite for chilly nights.
Apple Cider: A glass of warm spiced apple cider mirrors the flavors of your cookies and invokes the delightful essence of autumn. It’s like sipping on a slice of pie while enjoying your sweet treat.

Make Ahead Options

These Deliciously Easy Apple Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the apple filling and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can make the cookie dough and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months. To maintain quality, be sure to wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap; this prevents drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before popping them into the oven. This way, you can enjoy fresh-baked cookies with minimal effort on busy afternoons!

Expert Tips for Apple Pie Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming, which helps achieve a light and fluffy dough.
Apple Selection: Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to enhance the flavor profile of your apple pie cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated to maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Proper Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; pulling them out while slightly underbaked gives a wonderfully chewy center that complements the apple filling.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Don’t skip the cinnamon sugar sprinkle on top! It adds a satisfying crunch and extra flavor, making your apple pie cookies irresistible.

Apple Pie Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right apples for Apple Pie Cookies?
Choosing the right apples is crucial for the best flavor. I recommend using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples. Granny Smith adds a tartness that balances well with the sweetness of the cookie, while Honeycrisp brings juiciness and sweetness to the batch. Always opt for fresh, firm apples to ensure a delightful bite!

How should I store my Apple Pie Cookies?
To keep your Apple Pie Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like them to stay a little firmer, you can refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer for up to 3 months, ensuring to layer parchment paper between cookies to avoid sticking.

Can I freeze the Apple Pie Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Apple Pie Cookies, allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. For best results, layer parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking. They can be kept this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies are coming out dry, it’s likely due to overmixing the dough or baking them too long. To avoid this, always mix the dry ingredients just until combined and watch them closely while baking. If they look golden brown around the edges but the centers seem a bit soft, remove them from the oven—this is a sign that they’ll remain chewy as they cool. Additionally, make sure that your butter is at room temperature for optimal texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for Apple Pie Cookies?
Yes! If you have specific dietary needs, you can easily customize this recipe. For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. For a vegan version, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Always check the labels of any processed ingredients, like sugars or baking powder, to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.