Apple Pie Cookies combine the classic flavors of a warm, spiced apple pie in the form of bite-sized treats. These cookies offer a perfect balance of crisp, buttery pie crust with the comforting taste of cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced chef, these cookies are simple to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re perfect for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to casual family nights.
In this article, we’ll go through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, some frequently asked questions (FAQs), and a helpful conclusion to guide you in making these delicious Apple Pie Cookies.
Ingredients for Apple Pie Cookies
Before you begin, gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth baking experience. Here’s a list of the necessary ingredients and their quantities:
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 cup apple pie filling (chopped into small pieces)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
These ingredients are easy to find, and you may even have most of them in your pantry already. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the minimal time it takes to prepare!
Directions and Preparation Method for Apple Pie Cookies
Follow these easy-to-follow steps to create your delicious Apple Pie Cookies.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake at the correct temperature and will achieve that golden, crispy texture. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pie Crust
Place the first refrigerated pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Gently roll it out with a rolling pin until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. You should aim for a nice, even layer to ensure your cookies bake uniformly.
Step 3: Add the Apple Pie Filling
Spread 1 cup of chopped apple pie filling evenly across the rolled-out crust, leaving about 1 inch around the edges. You can use store-bought apple pie filling or make your own, but pre-made filling is quick and convenient. If you’re using homemade filling, make sure it’s chopped into small, bite-sized pieces for easy portioning.
Step 4: Add Sugar, Cinnamon, and Nutmeg
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional). Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the apple filling. The sugar will help sweeten the filling, while the cinnamon and nutmeg will provide the signature apple pie flavor. The addition of nutmeg is optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Top with the Second Crust
Roll out the second pie crust and carefully place it on top of the apple-filled pie crust. Press gently along the edges to help seal the two crusts together. It’s essential to seal the crust well to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
Step 6: Cut Out the Cookie Circles
Use a round cookie cutter (about 2 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough. You can also use a glass or any round object if you don’t have a cookie cutter. Press down firmly to cut through both layers of crust. Gently press the edges to seal each cookie so the filling stays inside during baking.
Step 7: Prepare the Egg Wash
To achieve a golden, shiny finish on your cookies, prepare an egg wash. In a small bowl, beat 1 egg with 1 tbsp of milk. Use a pastry brush to gently brush the egg wash over the tops of the cookies. This will give your cookies a beautiful, glossy appearance and a deliciously crispy texture.
Step 8: Seal the Edges
Using a fork, press the edges of each cookie to seal them completely. This creates a decorative pattern and ensures that the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the prepared cookies onto the parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake them in your preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown color. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Enjoy them while they’re still warm, or allow them to cool to room temperature. Either way, these Apple Pie Cookies are perfect for any time of day!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I make these cookies with homemade apple pie filling? Yes! If you prefer to make your own apple pie filling, you can easily do so with fresh apples, sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of cornstarch. Just be sure to chop the apples into small pieces and cook them down to a soft consistency before using them in the recipe.
2. Can I freeze Apple Pie Cookies? Yes, these cookies can be frozen both before and after baking. To freeze before baking, arrange the cut cookies on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or container for long-term storage. When ready to bake, simply place them directly in the oven without thawing.
3. Can I use a different type of filling for these cookies? Absolutely! While apple pie filling is traditional, you can get creative and use other fillings like cherry, blueberry, or peach pie filling. You can even use pumpkin pie filling for a fall-inspired treat.
4. How can I make the crust more flavorful? For a richer, more flavorful crust, try adding a pinch of salt, vanilla extract, or even a bit of brown sugar to the pie crust before rolling it out. This will give your cookies an added depth of flavor.
5. How do I store leftover cookies? Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate or freeze them to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Apple Pie Cookies are a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite. Their warm, spiced apple filling and flaky, buttery crust make them the perfect treat for any time of year. These cookies are not only easy to make but are also highly customizable to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy them warm out of the oven or cool at room temperature, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.
From preparing the filling to cutting out the perfect cookie circles, these Apple Pie Cookies are both simple and delightful to make. We hope this recipe becomes a regular in your baking repertoire, and that each batch is met with smiles and compliments.
Enjoy baking these sweet, delicious Apple Pie Cookies, and don’t forget to share them with loved ones!