Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Get ready for a showstopping treat that combines two classic desserts into one irresistible bite: this Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is every bit as magical as it sounds. Each pocket-sized cookie holds a gooey caramel-apple center, hugged by flaky pie crust, baked into adorable mini pies that are as fun to eat as they are to make. Perfect for cozy autumn days, bake sales, or simply surprising a friend, these cookies promise all the nostalgia and flavor of homemade apple pie with the added joy of caramel. You’ll want to make a double batch just to keep everyone happy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Crust:
- 2 refrigerated pie crusts
Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups apple pie filling (chopped into small pieces)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Additional:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- All-purpose flour (for dusting)
- Optional coarse sugar for sprinkling
How to Make Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking magic. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for an easy cleanup and perfect cookie bottoms. Lightly dust your work surface with a bit of flour to keep things from sticking once you roll out the pie crust.
Step 2: Roll and Layer the Base
Take one of the pie crusts and gently roll it out on your prepared surface. Spread a thin, even layer of caramel sauce all over the dough, getting right to the edges so every cookie will have a touch of gooey sweetness. Next, scatter the chopped apple pie filling evenly over the caramel—don’t be afraid to press the apples in a little so they stay put.
Step 3: Create the Lattice Topping
Roll out your second pie crust, then use a knife or pastry cutter to slice it into thin, uniform strips. Carefully lay these strips over the apple-filled base, weaving them over and under to make a classic lattice pattern. This not only looks beautiful but allows steam to escape, giving you that perfect mini pie texture.
Step 4: Cut and Seal the Cookies
Grab a round cookie cutter (about 2-3 inches wide) and press firmly through the layered dough to create your mini cookies. Press down around the edges with the cutter or your fingers to really seal in the filling and prevent leaks during baking. Place each cookie onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space in between.
Step 5: Brush, Sprinkle, and Bake
Brush every cookie with a light layer of beaten egg to encourage that golden shine. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle generously over the tops. For extra wow factor, add a pinch of coarse sugar too. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the cookies are deeply golden and smell absolutely heavenly. Let them cool slightly before serving so the caramel sets just enough to avoid finger burns!
How to Serve Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Turn your Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe into artisan treats with a finishing drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a snowy dusting of powdered sugar. Freshly grated cinnamon, or even a tiny scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side, takes them to the next indulgence level if you’re serving for dessert.
Side Dishes
Pair your cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or a mug of spiced apple cider for the full fall bakery experience. If you’re sharing with friends, a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream brings dreamy contrast, while a handful of fresh apple slices alongside keeps things feeling light.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cookies piled high on a rustic wooden board, in muffin liners for grab-and-go snacking, or arrange them on a tiered cake stand for a holiday dessert table. For gifting, nestle them in a parchment-lined box tied with a ribbon—trust me, they’ll disappear fast wherever they go!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool any leftover Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Layer parchment or wax paper between cookies to keep them crisp and prevent any sticky situations.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze these cookies! Once baked and cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature or refresh in the oven to restore that just-baked texture. Frozen, they’ll keep for up to two months.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked magic, pop your cookies into a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes. They’ll re-crisp, and the caramel center softens again—just be sure to let them cool slightly before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use homemade apple pie filling instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade filling brings an extra layer of flavor and lets you adjust the sweetness or spices. Just be sure to chop the apples nice and small so they fit perfectly in your cookies.
What’s the best caramel sauce for this Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe?
Any thick, high-quality caramel sauce works wonders. You can use jarred caramel or make your own—just make sure it’s not runny to avoid excess leaks during baking.
Can I make the Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cookies a day ahead and store at room temperature, or freeze them for longer storage. If you want maximum freshness, bake the day you plan to serve, but know they hold up beautifully.
What if I don’t have a cookie cutter?
No problem! Use the rim of a glass, a biscuit cutter, or even cut squares with a sharp knife—these cookies are all about a rustic, homey feel, so get creative with the shapes.
Can I make this Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pie crust, and ensure your filling and caramel are gluten-free as well. The method stays the same, and the results are just as delicious.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, your friends and family will swoon over every gooey, spiced bite of this Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe. They’re everything we love about apple pie, made snackable and even more fun. Bake a batch soon—you’ll be amazed how quickly they turn an ordinary day into something worth celebrating!
Print
Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional apple pie, featuring a flaky crust filled with sweet apple pie filling and drizzled with caramel. These mini pies are perfect for fall baking and make a delicious treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 refrigerated pie crusts
Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups apple pie filling (chopped into small pieces)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Additional:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- All-purpose flour (for dusting)
- Optional coarse sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the crust: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out one pie crust. Spread a thin layer of caramel sauce over the crust, then evenly distribute the chopped apple pie filling on top.
- Assemble the cookies: Roll out the second pie crust and create a lattice pattern over the filling. Cut out cookies with a cookie cutter, press to seal the edges, and place them on the baking sheet.
- Finish and bake: Brush the tops with egg wash, sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar, and bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown. Cool before serving.
Notes
- You can use homemade pie crust and filling if preferred.
- Drizzle additional caramel sauce over cookies after baking for extra sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
