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 and sweet apples creates a comforting treat that tastes just like classic apple pie.
• Easy to Make: With clear steps, these cookies can be whipped up by bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies impress every time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Many components can be prepared in advance, allowing for easy assembly when you’re ready to bake.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices or toppings to match your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric mixer: Easily creams butter and sugar together, saving time and effort.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking the apple filling evenly without burning.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures even-sized cookies for consistent baking results.

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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 (or 1 tsp lemon juice if cider isn’t available)
• 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

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 the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium-high speed. Add the sugars and mix until creamed together with the butter, about 1 minute. Add the vanilla and eggs, mixing until just combined. Gradually add dry ingredients last, mixing until a dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll into balls.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Rinse & peel your apples. Dice them into bite-sized chunks. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, add all apple filling ingredients; cook for about 15 to 18 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste around 15 minutes for desired tenderness. Transfer mixture to a bowl to cool.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my easy, quick recipe for Salted Caramel Sauce. Let it cool at room temperature for about 20 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Scoop dough into balls weighing approximately 65 grams each. Place them in an airtight container to chill; they should chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or freeze for about 2 hours.

Step 5: Make the Crumble Topping

While dough chills, preheat your oven to 350° F. Melt butter in a mixing bowl; stir in remaining streusel ingredients until crumbly. Spread on a parchment-lined pan and bake for about 12–14 minutes until golden brown. Break pieces up as desired while cooling.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 365° F again if needed. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Roll dough balls in cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing about six on each sheet with space for spreading. Bake for about 10–12 minutes until edges are set.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cooled slightly, spoon apple pie filling into each cookie center, sprinkle crumble topping over them, then drizzle with salted caramel sauce.

Step 8: Serve & Store

Enjoy these delicious cookies immediately after assembly! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days; avoid leaving them out overnight due to fresh fruit content.

Enjoy making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies—your kitchen will smell amazing!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not only delightful on their own, but they can also be served in various ways to enhance your experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate these cookies to the next level.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the sweet flavors.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: This option complements the spices in the cookies for a warm, cozy treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Fruit: Serve alongside fresh fruits like berries or slices of pear for a refreshing contrast.
• Cheese Board: Add soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese to create a savory complement to the sweetness.

Drizzled with Extra Sauce

• More Salted Caramel: A drizzle of extra salted caramel sauce enhances the cookie’s flavor and adds richness.
• Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a light drizzle of chocolate sauce can create an indulgent combination.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: Pair with freshly brewed coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Spiced Tea: A cup of chai or spiced tea enhances the autumnal flavors of the cookies.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Perfecting your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh apples provide the best flavor and texture. Opt for tart varieties like Granny Smith for balance.
• Chill Your Dough: Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and prevents spreading during baking.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision when measuring flour and sugars, ensuring consistent results.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out.
• Let Cool Properly: Allow cookies to cool on the sheet before transferring them to avoid breaking.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or spices in the crumble topping for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of creamy vanilla yogurt adds tanginess and balances sweetness perfectly.
2. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer a crunchy contrast that complements the soft texture of the cookies.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup brings seasonal flavors that pair well with apple desserts.
4. Caramelized Pears: Sauté pears in butter and brown sugar for a fruity side that echoes the cookie’s filling.
5. Cheese Fondue: Create an interactive dessert experience by dipping cookie pieces into rich cheese fondue if you’re feeling adventurous!
6. Chai Latte: This spiced beverage pairs beautifully, enhancing the warm flavors found in both cookies and drink alike.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for shaping and preventing spreading. Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements matter. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure accuracy.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients.
• Ignoring the baking time: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies. They should be set at the edges but slightly soft in the center when done.
• Forgetting to use parchment paper: Parchment paper helps prevent sticking and ensures even baking. Always line your baking sheets with parchment for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
• Separate layers of cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 1 month. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container.

Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on low power for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are delightful treats that combine classic apple pie flavors with cookie form, topped with salted caramel sauce.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should feel set and look golden brown, while the centers may appear slightly underdone. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I customize these cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts like pecans or walnuts, swap out spices, or even use different fruits like pears for variety.

How do I make vegan Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

You can substitute butter with plant-based butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs to create a vegan version of these delicious cookies.

Can I make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The salted caramel sauce can be made in advance and stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are a versatile treat perfect for any occasion, especially during fall. Their delightful blend of flavors and textures makes them irresistible! Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite nuts or using different spices. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!