Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Apple Pie Cookies taste like apple pie in cookie form! An apple pie spiced cookie is filled with a tender apple filling and topped with a brown sugar crumble and finished with a drizzle of luscious salted caramel sauce. These cookies are the perfect fall treat – and taste just like mini apple pies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm spices, sweet apples, and rich caramel creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet snack throughout the day. They are also great for sharing at parties!
• Make Ahead Options: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance, allowing you to enjoy fresh cookies whenever you want without extra fuss.
• Perfect for Fall: The warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg evoke the spirit of autumn, making these cookies an ideal seasonal treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Medium saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric Mixer: A must-have for easily creaming butter and sugars together to achieve that fluffy texture.
• Cookie Scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes, leading to even baking and consistent results.
• Baking Sheets: Essential for placing your cookies while they bake; using parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 cup salted butter, softened at room temperature (226 grams)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled (390 grams)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves

For the Apple Filling

• 4 large apples, peeled and diced (775 grams or 27 ounces of diced apple)
• 1/4 cup salted butter, cubed (4 tbsp)
• 2 tbsp apple cider(you can use 1 tsp of lemon juice if you don’t have any cider – note that this is NOT apple cider vinegar!)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 and 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves

For the Salted Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup granulated sugar (206 grams)
• 6 tbsp salted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp heavy cream
• Pinch of flaky sea salt (I love Maldon brand!)

For the Crumble Topping

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 and 3/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp allspice
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 cup salted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 and 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3/4 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium-high speed. Add both sugars and mix until fully combined with the butter, about 1 minute. Incorporate the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until just combined. Finally, add the dry ingredients last, mixing until a dough forms. Chill this dough for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to roll into balls.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Rinse and peel your apples before dicing them into bite-sized chunks. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine all apple filling ingredients. Cook for about 15 to 18 minutes while stirring occasionally. Taste around the 15-minute mark to check tenderness; continue cooking until desired softness is achieved. Transfer this mixture to a bowl to cool.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Prepare your Salted Caramel Sauce by following my easy recipe linked above. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes until it thickens. This sauce can be stored in a jar in your refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Using a large cookie scoop, portion out dough balls weighing approximately 65 grams each. Place them in an airtight container to chill in either the fridge for at least four hours or in the freezer for two hours.

Step 5: Make the Crumble Topping

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt butter in a medium mixing bowl before stirring in remaining streusel ingredients until crumbly. Spread this mixture onto a parchment-lined pan and bake for about 12-14 minutes until deep golden brown. Allow it to cool before breaking into smaller pieces as desired.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven again but this time to 365°F (185°C). Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. In a small bowl, combine sugar with spices meant for coating. Roll each dough ball in this cinnamon-sugar mix before arranging six on each prepared sheet with space between them. Bake for about 10-12 minutes; edges should be set while centers remain slightly puffy.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cooled slightly, use a spoon to fill each cookie center with apple pie filling. Top generously with crumble topping followed by drizzling salted caramel sauce over each one.

Step 8: Serve & Store

Enjoy these delightful treats immediately after assembling! Store leftover cookies in an airtight container within your fridge where they will stay fresh for up to five days. Avoid leaving them out at room temperature overnight due to fresh fruit content.

With these simple steps, you’ll create delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies that are sure to impress family and friends alike!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy family gathering, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delicious contrast of warm and cold.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Add more salted caramel sauce on top just before serving for an indulgent touch.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream to add lightness and creaminess that complements the spiced cookie.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a beautiful platter with other fall-inspired treats like pumpkin spice cupcakes or pecan pie bars.

With Hot Beverages

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of apple cider or hot cocoa for a comforting treat during chilly evenings.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

To ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother dough and better texture.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes makes it easier to handle and prevents spreading while baking.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup without packing it down. This ensures accurate amounts, leading to better cookie consistency.

• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies when they look slightly underdone in the center. They will continue cooking as they cool on the baking sheet.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

When serving Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, consider pairing them with side dishes that complement their sweet and spiced flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These soft, fluffy donuts add a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs well with the cookies.

2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances the richness of the cookies, adding a refreshing element.

3. Cheesecake Bars: Creamy cheesecake bars provide a rich yet light contrast that enhances the overall dessert experience.

4. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: The warm spices in pumpkin muffins echo those found in the cookies, creating harmony in flavors.

5. Chai Tea Lattes: A spiced chai latte offers warmth and aromatic spices that pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the cookies.

6. Caramel Popcorn: Sweet caramel popcorn adds an extra layer of sweetness, making for an exciting textural contrast alongside the chewy cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold mistake: Skipping the chilling step. Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling into balls.

• Bold mistake: Overmixing the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined after adding dry ingredients.

• Bold mistake: Ignoring the apple filling preparation. If you don’t cook the apple filling long enough, it won’t have the right texture. Cook until the apples are tender but not mushy.

• Bold mistake: Not properly measuring ingredients. Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for best results.

• Bold mistake: Forgetting to preheat your oven. Baking in a cold oven can affect how your cookies rise and spread. Always preheat your oven before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for 4-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 1 month.
• Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container.

Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm each cookie in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies:

How do I ensure my cookies don’t spread too much?

To prevent spreading, make sure your dough is chilled before baking and use parchment paper or silicone mats on your baking sheets.

Can I substitute different types of apples?

Yes! You can use any variety of apples you prefer. Tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice contrast to the sweetness of caramel.

What if I don’t have apple cider?

If you don’t have apple cider, you can substitute it with lemon juice, which will still provide acidity without altering the flavor too much.

How do I make Salted Caramel Sauce from scratch?

You can follow a simple recipe using sugar, butter, cream, and salt as ingredients. Allow it to cool before drizzling over your cookies.

Can these cookies be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare both the dough and apple filling ahead of time and assemble them when you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies offer a delightful twist on traditional desserts by combining soft cookie texture with classic flavors. Their versatility allows you to customize with different spices or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Try them out this season!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, a perfect treat that combines the essence of classic apple pie with the convenience of cookies. Each bite brings together warm spices, tender apple filling, and a rich brown sugar crumble, all topped off with a luscious drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce. These cookies capture the spirit of fall and are ideal for gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a sweet snack throughout the day. Easy to make and versatile, they can be enjoyed warm or as part of a dessert platter.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup salted butter, softened at room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 4 large apples, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup salted butter, cubed
• 2 tbsp apple cider or lemon juice
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 and 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp salted butter, cubed
• 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp heavy cream
• Pinch of flaky sea salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 and 3/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp allspice
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 cup salted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 and 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3/4 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium-high speed. Add both sugars and mix until fully combined with the butter, about 1 minute.
2. Incorporate the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until just combined. Finally, add the dry ingredients last, mixing until a dough forms. Chill this dough for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to roll into balls.
3. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine all apple filling ingredients. Cook for about 15 to 18 minutes while stirring occasionally. Taste around the 15-minute mark to check tenderness; continue cooking until desired softness is achieved. Transfer this mixture to a bowl to cool.
4. Using a large cookie scoop, portion out dough balls weighing approximately 65 grams each. Place them in an airtight container to chill in either the fridge for at least four hours or in the freezer for two hours.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt butter in a medium mixing bowl before stirring in remaining streusel ingredients until crumbly. Spread this mixture onto a parchment-lined pan and bake for about 12-14 minutes until deep golden brown. Allow it to cool before breaking into smaller pieces as desired.
6. Preheat your oven again to 365°F (185°C). Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. In a small bowl, combine sugar with spices meant for coating. Roll each dough ball in this cinnamon-sugar mix before arranging six on each prepared sheet with space between them. Bake for about 10-12 minutes; edges should be set while centers remain slightly puffy.
7. Once cooled slightly, use a spoon to fill each cookie center with apple pie filling. Top generously with crumble topping followed by drizzling salted caramel sauce over each one.
8. Enjoy these delightful treats immediately after assembling! Store leftover cookies in an airtight container within your fridge where they will stay fresh for up to five days.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (65g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 40mg