Easy Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Have you ever craved the comforting taste of apple pie but found yourself short on time? The good news is that you can enjoy all the deliciousness of traditional apple pie in a fraction of the time with our easy Apple Pie Cookies recipe! According to a survey by the American Pie Council, more than 90% of Americans love apple pie, making it a beloved dessert across the nation. However, many people believe that making pie from scratch is a daunting task. This recipe will challenge that notion and show you how to whip up delightful apple pie cookies in just under 90 minutes!

Ingredients List

To create these scrumptious apple pie cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: For a gluten-free option, substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the dough.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
• 1 large egg: For a vegan option, substitute with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor.

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples): Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are excellent choices.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Adjust according to your sweetness preference.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: This spice is key to that classic apple pie flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Prevents the apples from browning and adds brightness.

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar: For dusting.
• Vanilla ice cream: A perfect pairing for serving.

Timing

Preparing these apple pie cookies will take approximately 90 minutes: 30 minutes for preparation and 60 minutes for baking. This is about 20% less time than the average homemade pie recipe, making it an efficient choice for busy bakers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

1. Prepare the Apples: In a separate bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
3. Add Filling: Press a small indentation in the center of each dough ball and spoon about a teaspoon of the apple filling into the center.
4. Seal the Cookies: Take another small piece of dough, flatten it, and place it on top of the filling, sealing the edges gently.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve

1. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
2. Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per cookie (based on a batch of 24 cookies):

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	150
Total Fat	7g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	20mg
Sodium	50mg
Total Carbohydrates	20g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	8g
Protein	1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this apple pie cookies recipe a bit healthier, consider these alternatives:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
• Reduce Sugar: Cut the sugar in the dough and filling by 25% or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans in the filling for added healthy fats and protein.
• Use Applesauce: Replace some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option.

Serving Suggestions

These apple pie cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• With a Cup of Coffee or Tea: Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack.
• As Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• At Parties: Arrange them on a platter with caramel sauce for dipping.
• With a Twist: Drizzle with chocolate sauce for a decadent treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your apple pie cookies turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

1. Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
2. Not Measuring Apples Correctly: Use a kitchen scale for accuracy; too many apples can make the cookies soggy.
3. Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet helps them set properly and enhances their texture.
4. Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly preheated for even baking.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your apple pie cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, place cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Conclusion

In just 90 minutes, you can create delightful apple pie cookies that capture the essence of classic apple pie in a fun, portable format. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, and with a few simple tweaks, they can cater to various dietary needs. Try this easy apple pie cookies recipe today, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below! Subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie filling instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought pie filling for convenience, but homemade filling offers fresher flavors.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

Replace the egg with applesauce and use dairy-free butter or coconut oil.

Can I add other fruits to the filling?

Absolutely! Pears, cranberries, or even blueberries can be great additions for a twist.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before shaping.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and firm to the touch but still soft in the center.