Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining the flavors of apple pie with the convenience of a cookie. Perfect for fall gatherings, these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies feature a spiced apple filling, a crumbly topping, and a drizzle of rich salted caramel. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging yourself, these cookies will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and salted caramel creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are ideal for fall festivities, family gatherings, or cozy nights at home.
• Easy to Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance, making it simple to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert or snack; they pair well with coffee, hot chocolate, or even vanilla ice cream.
• Fun to Assemble: The process of filling and topping each cookie adds an enjoyable hands-on element to your baking adventure.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Medium pan for apple filling
• Medium mixing bowl for crumble

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars quick and easy for a smooth dough.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
• Parchment paper or silicone mats: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless while baking.

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 use 1 tsp of lemon juice)
• 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

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

For the Crumble Topping

• 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 well combined, about one minute. Incorporate vanilla extract and eggs until just combined. Finally, add dry ingredients last, mixing until a dough forms. Chill for at least thirty minutes before rolling 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 fifteen to eighteen minutes while stirring occasionally. After reaching desired tenderness, transfer to a bowl to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Prepare your salted caramel sauce according to your favorite recipe. Allow it to cool at room temperature until thickened, which usually takes about twenty minutes.

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Using a large cookie scoop, portion out balls weighing about sixty-five grams each. Place them in an airtight container in either the fridge for at least four hours or in the freezer for two hours before rolling.

Step 5: Make the Crumble

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit (350°F). Melt butter in a medium mixing bowl, then stir in remaining crumble ingredients until crumbly. Spread on a parchment-lined pan; bake for twelve to fourteen minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven again but this time to three hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit (365°F). Line cookie sheets with parchment or silicone mats. Roll chilled dough balls in cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them six per sheet with space between each. Bake for ten to twelve minutes until set around edges but slightly underdone in centers.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cooled slightly, spoon apple pie filling into each cookie’s center. Top with crumble mixture then drizzle with salted caramel sauce.

Step 8: Serve & Store

Enjoy assembled cookies immediately! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days—avoid leaving them at room temperature due to fresh fruit content.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging at home, these cookies can be paired with several accompaniments for an even more enjoyable experience.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture complements the sweet and tangy flavors of the cookies.
• Cinnamon ice cream: This adds an extra layer of warmth and spice that pairs well with apple pie flavors.

Drizzle with Extra Sauce

• More salted caramel: Enhance the flavor by drizzling additional salted caramel sauce on top before serving.
• Chocolate sauce: A chocolate drizzle can add a rich contrast to the sweet apple filling.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• Hot coffee: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Spiced chai tea: This warm beverage complements the spices in the cookies and adds comfort to your snack time.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mixed desserts: Include mini tarts or brownies alongside your cookies for variety.
• Fresh fruit: Adding slices of fresh apples or pears can brighten up your dessert spread.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

To make sure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies turn out perfectly delicious every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Chill the dough: Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances their flavor.
• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples give the best flavor and texture to your filling, creating a delightful bite.
• Don’t skip the crumble: The brown sugar crumble adds crunch and sweetness, balancing out the soft cookie and apple filling.
• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Let cool completely: Allowing cookies to cool fully on a wire rack ensures they set properly and are easier to handle when assembling.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

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

1. Cheese platter: A selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or brie, provides a savory complement to sweet cookies.
2. Caramelized nuts: Sweet and crunchy nuts add another layer of texture that works well with apple flavors.
3. Pumpkin spice latte: This seasonal drink enhances fall vibes and pairs beautifully with dessert flavors.
4. Ice cream floats: Combine soda with vanilla ice cream for a fun twist that kids will love alongside these cookies.
5. Fruit salad: A light fruit salad can refresh your palate between bites of rich cookies.
6. Hot apple cider: This warm beverage echoes the flavors found in the cookies, making it a cozy pairing for chilly days.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, it’s easy to encounter some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Chill Time: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies spreading too much during baking. Always chill your cookie dough for better shape and texture.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and tender.

• Ignoring Apple Preparation: Failing to dice apples evenly can cause uneven cooking. Cut apples into uniform pieces for consistent filling texture.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Using incorrect measurements can ruin your cookies. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.

• Baking at Incorrect Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to underbaked or overbaked cookies. Always preheat your oven and double-check the temperature.

• Forgetting the Salted Caramel Drizzle: Skipping the salted caramel sauce eliminates flavor depth. Don’t forget this key component for a delightful finish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on low power for a soft treat.

• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid for 1-2 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, here are some helpful answers:

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead?

Yes, store-bought caramel works well if you’re short on time. Just drizzle it over the assembled cookies!

How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?

Chilling the dough and not overbaking are key! Remove them when they look slightly underdone as they will firm up while cooling.

What types of apples are best for filling?

Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for balance against the sweetness of caramel and sugars.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or substitute different spices based on your preferences for unique flavors.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are an irresistible fall treat that captures all the flavors of apple pie in a delightful cookie form. You can customize these by adding nuts or swapping spices, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy these comforting bites!