Apple Pie Cookies are like a hug in cookie form, and I’ve discovered the ultimate way to capture that cozy, comforting apple pie flavor in a perfectly portioned treat. My grandma used to make these for me after school, and the scent of cinnamon and baked apples would fill our entire house. They’re so much easier than a full pie, but they deliver all the deliciousness! If you’re looking for an easy apple pie cookie recipe that tastes just like fall, you’ve found it. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Apple Pie Cookies

These cookies are a game-changer for several reasons! They’re incredibly simple to whip up, making them the easy apple pie cookies you’ve been searching for. Plus, they deliver that authentic apple pie taste in every single bite, earning them the title of the best apple pie cookies. You’ll love how quickly they come together, perfect for a last-minute treat or a festive fall gathering. They’re wonderfully portable, making them ideal for bake sales or school lunches. The combination of tender cookie and warm, spiced apple filling is pure comfort, and they freeze beautifully, meaning you can enjoy them anytime a craving strikes!

Super easy to make, even for beginners!
Packed with all the comforting flavors of apple pie.
Perfectly portioned for a delightful treat.
Impress your friends and family with these delicious cookies.
Great for fall baking and holiday celebrations.
They freeze well, so you can enjoy them later.
A wonderful way to satisfy your apple pie craving.

Ingredients for Homemade Apple Pie Cookies

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful homemade apple pie cookies. For the luscious filling, you’ll need 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, which provides a rich base, and 1 1/2 cups (160g) peeled, cored, and diced Granny Smith apples for that classic tartness. We’ll sweeten it with 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar and warm it up with 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon. A simple mix of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon water will thicken it beautifully. For the cookie dough, think of it like a tender, buttery base, similar to what you’d find in apple pie sugar cookies or delicate apple pie shortbread cookies. You’ll need 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt for structure. Then, 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened, and 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar create that irresistible richness. Don’t forget 1 large egg, at room temperature, 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature for extra tenderness, and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for that classic cookie flavor. Finally, for the sweet coating, gather 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.

How to Make Apple Pie Cookies

Get ready to create some magic! Making these apple pie cookies is a straightforward process that results in pure deliciousness. I find the aroma alone makes it worth every step.

Step 1: Prepare the apple filling: In a skillet, melt the 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the 1 1/2 cups (160g) diced Granny Smith apples, 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften, about 5 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet and stir constantly until the apple filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely. This filling is key to that authentic apple pie flavor.
Step 2: Make the cookie dough: While the filling cools, prepare the cookie dough. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the 1 cup (225g) softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the 1 large egg, 1 large egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the apple pie cookie dough; we want a tender cookie.
Step 3: Preheat and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, much like when you prepare for apple pie cookie bars.
Step 4: Prepare the cinnamon sugar coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Mix well.
Step 5: Shape the cookies: Scoop the apple pie cookie dough into approximately 3-tablespoon balls. Roll each ball evenly in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring it’s well coated. Place the coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 6: Create the indent and fill: Using your thumb or the back of a small teaspoon, press an indent into the center of each dough ball. Make sure the indent is deep enough to hold the filling but not so deep that it goes all the way through. Spoon about 1-2 teaspoons of the cooled apple filling into each indent.
Step 7: Bake the apple pie cookies: Bake for 10–12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly. The smell will be absolutely amazing!
Step 8: Cool the cookies: Let the baked apple pie cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set up a bit. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Optional caramel drizzle: For an extra touch of decadence, once the cookies are completely cool, you can drizzle them with your favorite caramel sauce. This is a wonderful addition for special occasions!

Apple Pie Cookies: 8 Easy Steps to Fall Bliss - Apple Pie Cookies - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Pie Cookies

I’ve made these so many times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to make sure they turn out perfectly every single time. Following these simple tips will elevate your apple pie cookie experience!

Ensure your apple filling is completely cool before adding it to the cookie dough. A warm filling will cause the dough to melt and spread too much during baking.
Don’t overmix the cookie dough after adding the flour. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to tougher cookies instead of the soft, tender texture we’re aiming for.
Chill the cookie dough for about 15-20 minutes if you live in a warm climate or if your kitchen tends to be hot. This helps prevent excessive spreading.
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling along with the cinnamon. You can learn more about common baking spices here.

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Pie Cookies?

The secret really lies in the texture of both the cookie and the filling. Ensuring the apple filling is fully cooled and thickened properly is crucial. My favorite apple pie cookie technique involves creating a generous indent that can hold plenty of that spiced apple goodness without overflowing.

Can I make Apple Pie Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components ahead of time! The apple filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also make the cookie dough and store it, covered, in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just bring it to room temperature slightly before shaping. For more baking tips, check out our guide on easy cinnamon rolls.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Pie Cookies?

The most common pitfall is the cookies spreading too much. This usually happens if the butter is too soft or the filling is warm. Another mistake is overfilling the indent; too much filling can cause the cookie to break apart. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately! Understanding the science behind baking, like the role of grains, can help.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Pie Cookies

These delightful apple pie cookies are so versatile, they’re perfect for almost any occasion! For a truly decadent treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of the warm cookie and cold ice cream is absolutely divine. Another fantastic serving suggestion is to pair them with a warm mug of apple cider or a cup of hot coffee, especially on a crisp fall day. You can also elevate them by adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For an extra burst of flavor, consider a drizzle of caramel sauce as an additional apple pie cookie topping, or even serve them alongside a small bowl of extra spiced apple pie filling for dipping! If you enjoy apple flavors, you might also like our recipe for classic apple pie.

Nutrition Facts for Apple Pie Cookies

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for these delicious apple pie cookies, per serving. These estimates give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying with each bite.

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 165
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 90mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you opt for different apple varieties or add extra toppings.

Apple Pie Cookies: 8 Easy Steps to Fall Bliss - Apple Pie Cookies - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Apple Pie Cookies

Properly storing your delicious apple pie cookies ensures they stay fresh and tasty. Once they’ve completely cooled on the wire rack, transfer them to an airtight container. For short-term storage, they’ll keep well at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, though I find they are best enjoyed within the first couple of days. If you know you won’t be able to finish them that quickly, or if you’ve made extra apple pie cookie dough to bake later, the freezer is your best friend! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay perfectly preserved for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen apple pie cookies, the best method is to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm treat, you can gently reheat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This brings back that fresh-baked aroma and delightful texture!

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Pie Cookies

What are Apple Pie Cookies?

Apple Pie Cookies are essentially a delightful cookie that captures the essence of a traditional apple pie in a portable, bite-sized format. They typically feature a buttery, tender cookie base, often with a thumbprint or shortbread-style texture, filled with a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple mixture. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy those classic fall flavors without the commitment of baking a whole pie!

Why are Apple Pie Cookies popular?

These cookies are incredibly popular because they offer the comforting, beloved flavors of apple pie in an easy-to-eat, shareable format. They’re perfect for holidays, bake sales, or just a cozy afternoon treat. Plus, they’re often simpler and quicker to make than a full pie, making them accessible for bakers of all levels. The combination of sweet, spiced apples and a tender cookie is universally loved, making them a consistent crowd-pleaser.

Can I use different types of apples for these cookies?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness that balances the sweetness, you can certainly experiment with other varieties. Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples work wonderfully and offer a slightly sweeter profile. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape when diced and cooked for the filling.

How do I get the perfect apple pie cookie dough texture?

The key to a perfect texture is not to overmix the dough once you add the flour. Overmixing can develop the gluten, leading to tougher cookies. Also, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature, as this helps create a smooth, cohesive dough that bakes up tender and slightly chewy.

Variations of Apple Pie Cookies You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic, you can get creative with these delightful apple pie cookies! For a textural twist, try making apple pie crumble cookies by adding a simple streusel topping made from flour, brown sugar, and butter before baking. If you love extra warmth, amp up the spices in the filling and dough for truly spiced apple pie cookies; a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom makes a big difference. For a gluten-free option, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. You could also experiment with different cookie bases, like a shortbread or even a chewy oatmeal cookie.

Crumble Top Cookies: Add a simple streusel topping of flour, brown sugar, and butter before baking.
Extra Spiced Cookies: Incorporate nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice into the filling and dough for a deeper flavor.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for the all-purpose flour.
Oatmeal Cookie Base: Mix in 1/2 cup of rolled oats into the cookie dough for a chewier texture.

Apple Pie Cookies: 8 Easy Steps to Fall Bliss

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Author: Michael
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 18 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These apple pie cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple pie in a bite-sized, easy-to-make cookie. Featuring a tender, buttery thumbprint cookie base filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced apples, they are perfect for any occasion, especially during fall and holidays. A cinnamon sugar coating adds extra flavor and sparkle.

Ingredients

Scale

For the apple filling:
1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
1 1/2 cups (160g) peeled, cored, and diced Granny Smith apples
1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
For the thumbprint cookie dough:
2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
1 large egg, at room temperature
1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the cinnamon sugar coating:
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

Prepare the apple filling: In a skillet, cook butter, diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon over medium heat until the apples are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Cook until the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool completely.
Make the cookie dough: In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined to form the apple pie cookie dough.
Preheat and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Prepare the cinnamon sugar coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
Shape the cookies: Scoop the apple pie cookie dough into 3-tablespoon balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets.
Create the indent and fill: Use your thumb or a teaspoon to press an indent into the center of each dough ball. Spoon the cooled apple filling into each indent.
Bake the apple pie cookies: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown and the centers are bubbling slightly.
Cool the cookies: Allow the apple pie cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional caramel drizzle: Before serving, you can drizzle caramel sauce over the finished apple pie cookies.

Notes

For a sweeter filling, substitute Honeycrisp apples for Granny Smith.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling for extra warmth and spice.
Drizzle with salted caramel or white chocolate for a decadent finish.
If cookies spread too much, chill the dough before baking.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert, Cookies
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American