Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve landed in the right place! These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on two classic desserts: apple pie and cookies. Perfect for gatherings, quick snacks, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies bring together warm spices, tender apples, and the rich sweetness of salted caramel in every bite. They’re not only delicious but also fun to make!

What truly makes this recipe special is how easy it is to prepare. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just want to enjoy a homemade treat during a busy weeknight, these cookies will surely become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: The combination of spiced apple filling and salted caramel gives these cookies an unforgettable taste.
• Easy to make: With simple steps, even novice bakers can create these delightful treats.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these mini apple pies in cookie form!
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the dough or filling ahead of time, making it perfect for busy schedules.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather all our ingredients! You’ll find that they are simple and wholesome, allowing the natural flavors to shine through in your 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)
• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some tasty ideas to customize your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Mix in dried fruit: Dried cranberries or raisins can add an extra layer of flavor.
• Try different spices: Experiment with cardamom or ginger for a unique twist.
• Use different fruits: Pears or peaches could make delicious fillings too!

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

Start by creaming softened butter with an electric mixer on medium-high speed. This step incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies a light texture. Next, mix in both sugars until they’re well combined—this should only take about a minute. Then add the vanilla extract and eggs. Mix until just combined before adding your dry ingredients. Chill this dough for about 30 minutes; this makes it easier to scoop later.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

While your dough chills, let’s prepare the apple filling! Rinse and peel your apples before dicing them into small chunks. Combine them with butter, cider (or lemon juice), brown sugar, and spices in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Cook for about 15-18 minutes until tender—this will enhance their sweetness and flavor. Transfer this mixture to a bowl to cool down; you can even do this ahead of time!

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

For that sweet finish, whip up your salted caramel sauce! Follow my easy recipe linked here—it only takes about 10 minutes! Let it cool at room temperature until thickened; this will take roughly 20 minutes. Make sure to store any leftovers in a jar in your fridge for up to two weeks.

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Scoop out dough balls weighing around 65 grams using a large cookie scoop. Place them in an airtight container to chill either in your fridge or freezer. Chilling is essential as it helps maintain their shape while baking.

Step 5: Make the Crumble

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing your crumble topping! Melt some butter and mix it with sugar and spices until crumbly. Spread this on a parchment-lined pan and bake until golden brown—around 12-14 minutes should do it!

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Now it’s time to bake those lovely cookie balls! Preheat your oven to 365°F (185°C) and line some baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll each chilled dough ball in cinnamon-sugar before placing them on the sheet—don’t forget space between them! Bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden at the edges.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cooled slightly, press an indent into each cookie’s center using the back of a tablespoon. Spoon generous amounts of apple filling into each indent before sprinkling on that delicious crumble topping you made earlier.

Step 8: Serve & Store

Enjoy these cookies immediately after assembling! If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

With every bite of these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, you’ll feel wrapped up in warmth like your favorite fall sweater. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Creating the perfect batch of Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll be on your way to cookie perfection!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother dough that bakes evenly.

• Chill the dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill not only makes it easier to handle but also enhances the flavor and texture of the cookies, leading to a thicker, chewier result.

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They will continue to firm up after being taken out of the oven, so pulling them out when they’re slightly underdone ensures they remain soft and delicious.

• Customize the filling: Feel free to mix in other fruits like pears or berries for a unique twist on the classic apple pie flavor. This adds variety and personal flair to your cookies!

• Experiment with toppings: While salted caramel is a must, don’t hesitate to drizzle some melted chocolate or sprinkle crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These delectable cookies are not just a treat; they can be presented beautifully for any occasion! Whether it’s a cozy gathering or a festive party, here are some ideas on how to serve them.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top provides an extra touch of sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the apple filling.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookie texture.
• Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add crunch and enhance the overall flavor profile of your cookies.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm flavors of the cookies perfectly, creating a delightful dessert experience.
• Hot Chocolate: Serve these cookies alongside a warm mug of hot chocolate for a cozy combination that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits can balance the richness of the cookies while providing freshness to your plate.
• Coffee or Tea: Offering coffee or herbal tea gives your guests an opportunity to sip something warm that pairs well with sweet treats, enhancing their overall enjoyment.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’re sure to impress friends and family alike! Enjoy crafting these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies and sharing them at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful treat you can enjoy throughout the week. With a little planning, you can have these delicious cookies ready to go whenever a craving strikes!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
• To maintain freshness, ensure that the container is sealed tightly.
• Avoid leaving cookies at room temperature overnight due to the fresh fruit in the filling.

Freezing

• To freeze unbaked cookie dough, scoop it into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month.
• For baked cookies, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen baked cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until just heated through.
• You can also microwave them for about 10-15 seconds if you’re in a hurry!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful cookies:

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can replace each egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) for a vegan alternative.

How do I store my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

What type of apples work best for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

For this recipe, tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp work wonderfully, giving you that classic apple pie flavor!

Can I prepare Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough and filling up to two days ahead and store them separately until you’re ready to bake.

What’s the best way to serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

These cookies shine when served warm right after assembling! Drizzle with salted caramel sauce just before enjoying.

Final Thoughts

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are truly special, bringing together the beloved flavors of fall into each delightful bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying one (or two!) yourself, I hope you find joy in making these sweet treats. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and delicious aromas!