Apple Pie Cookies

Name: Apple Pie Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup peeled and diced apples; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)

Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with our apple pie cookies! These delicious treats combine the warm, comforting essence of apple pie with the soft, chewy texture of cookies. Perfect for dessert or a snack, they are sure to impress your family and friends. With a hint of cinnamon and a drizzle of caramel, these cookies are a must-try for any apple lover. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s bursting with flavor and nostalgia.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup peeled and diced apples
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes approximately 12 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, while cooking time is around 12-15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each apple pie cookie (approximately 1 cookie) contains about 150 calories, 7g fat, 22g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 10g sugars, making it a delightful yet indulgent treat for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
Fold in the diced apples and ground cinnamon gently.
Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, feel free to use honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener option.

Serving and Pairings

These apple pie cookies are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a perfect accompaniment to a warm cup of tea or coffee.

Storage and Reheating

Store your apple pie cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven for a warm treat.

Cooking Mistakes

Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect texture.
Overmixing the dough may lead to tough cookies.
Using cold butter instead of softened will impact creaminess.
Skipping the chilling step can result in spreading.
Neglecting to line the baking sheet can cause sticking.

Helpful Tips

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
Add chopped nuts for extra crunch.
Experiment with spices like nutmeg for variety.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie filling?

Yes, you can use store-bought pie filling as a convenient alternative to fresh apples. Just adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

To make vegan apple pie cookies, replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tbsp water).

What type of apples are best for this recipe?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for apple pie cookies, as they hold their shape and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness.

Can I add raisins or cranberries?

Absolutely! Adding raisins or dried cranberries can enhance the flavor and add a chewy texture to the cookies.

How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?

Ensure not to overbake the cookies, and store them in an airtight container to maintain softness.

Conclusion

Apple pie cookies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the flavors of apple pie with the convenience of a cookie. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Enjoy them warm or cooled, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!