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, topped with a brown sugar crumble, and finished with a drizzle of luscious salted caramel sauce. These cookies are perfect for any gathering, making them an ideal fall treat that will impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and salted caramel delivers a delightful taste that mirrors classic apple pie.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cookies can be whipped up quickly, even by novice bakers.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or just a cozy night in, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Both the dough and filling can be prepared in advance, saving you time when you need it most.
• Impressive Presentation: The cookies look stunning when assembled with caramel and crumble on top, making them a showstopper dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking these delectable Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, gather your kitchen tools. Using the right tools ensures efficiency and ease throughout the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Medium pan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together for a smooth texture.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and consistent results.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevents sticking to trays, making cleanup easier while ensuring perfect cookie bottoms.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies:

For the Cookie Dough

• 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)
• 1/4 cup salted butter, cubed (4 tbsp)
• 2 tbsp apple cider(or 1 tsp lemon juice if cider is unavailable)
• 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 well combined with the butter. Add vanilla extract and eggs; mix until just combined. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes to make rolling easier.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Rinse & peel your apples before dicing them into bite-sized chunks. Combine all filling ingredients in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Cook for about 15 to 18 minutes while stirring occasionally. Taste around 15 minutes; continue cooking until desired tenderness is achieved. Transfer cooled apple mixture to a bowl.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Prepare your Salted Caramel Sauce according to my easy recipe (linked in blue text). Let cool at room temperature until thickened, about 20 minutes.

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Use a large cookie scoop to portion out dough balls of approximately 65 grams each. Place them in an airtight container. Chill in the fridge for at least four hours or freeze for two hours.

Step 5: Make the Crumble

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Melt butter in a medium mixing bowl; stir in remaining crumble ingredients until crumbly. Spread on parchment-lined pan; bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven again to 365°F. Line cookie sheets with parchment or silicone mats. In a small bowl, combine sugar and spices; roll chilled dough balls in this mixture before placing them on sheets with enough space between them.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once baked cookies have cooled slightly, create an indent in each center using a tablespoon’s back. Spoon warm apple filling into each cookie center, sprinkle crumble topping over it, then drizzle with salted caramel sauce.

Step 8: Serve & Store

Enjoy immediately after assembling! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

With these steps completed, you’ll have delicious Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies ready to share or enjoy yourself!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion. Here are some delicious ways to serve them that will elevate your dessert experience.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair these cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm and cold.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling more salted caramel sauce on top just before serving.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the rich cookies beautifully.

Served with Hot Apple Cider

• Offering these cookies with a cup of hot apple cider creates a cozy fall-themed dessert pairing.

On a Dessert Platter

• Create an elegant dessert platter by arranging the cookies alongside other fall treats like pumpkin spice muffins or pecan tarts.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

To ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these essential tips in mind.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps maintain shape and prevents spreading during baking.
• Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor, opt for fresh apples instead of pre-packaged fillings.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be golden around the edges but slightly underdone in the center.
• Let Them Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to avoid breaking.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess from the apple filling.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
   These sweet treats offer a delightful cinnamon flavor that complements your cookies perfectly.
2. Pumpkin Spice Muffins
   A seasonal favorite, pumpkin spice muffins enhance the fall theme and provide additional flavors.
3. Caramel Popcorn
   This crunchy snack pairs well with soft cookies, adding texture and a touch of sweetness.
4. Cheese Platter
   Include some mild cheeses like brie or cheddar for a savory balance against the sweet cookies.
5. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and lighten up this rich dessert option.
6. Chocolate Fondue
   Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip cookie pieces for an extra indulgent treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Bold Ingredient Measurement: Failing to measure ingredients accurately can ruin the texture and flavor. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Bold Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined, then chill for the best texture.
• Bold Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. Always allow sufficient chilling time for better shape.
• Bold Ignoring Baking Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cookie doneness. Preheat your oven properly and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
• Bold Not Allowing Cookies to Cool: Moving cookies too soon after baking can cause them to break apart. Let them rest on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4-5 days.

Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

• Freeze individual cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies.

How do I make my cookies thicker?

To achieve thicker cookies, ensure the dough is chilled for longer before baking. This helps maintain their shape during cooking.

Can I use different fruits instead of apples?

Yes! You can experiment with pears or berries for a different flavor profile while keeping the same cookie base.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store leftover Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. The texture may vary slightly but should still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. With options for customization, such as using different fruits or adding nuts, you can make this treat uniquely yours. Enjoy making these delightful mini pies in cookie form!