Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful treat that capture the essence of a classic apple pie in cookie form. These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies feature a spiced dough filled with tender apple filling, topped with a crunchy brown sugar crumble, and drizzled with rich salted caramel sauce. Perfect for fall gatherings, holidays, or simply as an indulgent snack, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends with their delicious flavor and beautiful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of warm spices and sweet apples creates a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With clear steps and simple ingredients, baking these cookies is straightforward and fun.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for autumn celebrations, holiday parties, or just a cozy night at home.
• Make Ahead Options: Both the dough and filling can be prepared in advance for convenience.
• Show-Stopping Presentation: The combination of textures from the cookie, filling, crumble, and caramel makes these cookies visually stunning.

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Tools and Preparation

To make the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, having the right tools is essential for a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mats
• Medium saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Speeds up the process of creaming butter and sugars together for a light texture in your cookies.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and consistent presentation.
• Parchment paper or silicone mats: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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 lemon juice if you don’t have cider)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 and 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1 cup granulated sugar (206 grams)
– 6 tbsp salted butter, cubed
– 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp heavy cream
– Pinch of flaky sea salt (Maldon brand recommended)
– Additional ingredients for crumble:
– 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
– 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 using an electric mixer on medium-high speed. Add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar, mixing until well combined. Incorporate the vanilla extract and eggs, blending until just mixed. Finally, add the dry ingredients gradually until a dough forms. Chill for at least 30 minutes before rolling into balls.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Rinse, peel, and dice your apples into bite-sized pieces. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine all apple filling ingredients. Cook for about 15 to18 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once desired tenderness is reached, transfer to a bowl to cool.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Prepare your salted caramel sauce according to your preferred recipe. Allow it to cool at room temperature for around 20 minutes, letting it thicken before using.

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Using a large cookie scoop, portion out dough balls weighing approximately 65 grams each. Place them in an airtight container in either the fridge for at least 4 hours or in the freezer for 2 hours.

Step 5: Make the Crumble

While cooling your dough, preheat your oven to 350°F(175°C). Melt some butter in a mixing bowl and stir in remaining crumble ingredients until crumbly. Spread onto a parchment-lined pan and bake for about 12–14 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven again to 365°F(185°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Roll chilled dough balls in cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on sheets—about six cookies per sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain slightly underdone.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cooled slightly on the baking sheet, press an indent into each cookie’s center using a tablespoon’s back. Spoon apple pie filling into each cookie’s center before sprinkling on crumble topping followed by drizzling salted caramel sauce over everything.

Step8: Serve & Store

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

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can also be enhanced with a few serving suggestions. Here are some ideas to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair these cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm and cold.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: For an extra spice kick, cinnamon ice cream complements the flavors of the cookies beautifully.

Drizzled with Extra Salted Caramel Sauce

• Additional Sauce: Drizzle more salted caramel sauce on top just before serving for an indulgent treat that enhances the cookie’s flavor.

Accompanied by a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: A cup of hot coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Hot Apple Cider: Enjoying these cookies with spiced hot apple cider brings out their fall flavors.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mixed Desserts: Arrange the cookies on a platter along with other desserts like brownies or pumpkin pie for a festive dessert spread.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Achieving the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for delicious results every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps maintain shape during baking and enhances flavor development.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies from the oven when they are slightly underdone; they will continue to cook as they cool.
• Experiment with Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor profile in your filling.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

To make your dessert experience complete, consider pairing these cookies with some delightful side dishes. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds richness without overwhelming the cookie’s flavors.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar, offers a savory balance to the sweet cookies.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cookies can create an indulgent dessert twist.
5. Pecan Pie Squares: These nutty squares complement the caramel flavor beautifully, creating a decadent duo.
6. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite pairs well, enhancing the overall fall theme of your dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and prevents spreading during baking. Always chill for at least 30 minutes.
• Overbaking the cookies: Cookies can quickly go from perfectly baked to dry. Remove them when the edges are set, and they look slightly underbaked in the center.
• Ignoring the apple filling’s texture: Cook apples until tender but not mushy. This ensures that your filling has a pleasant bite instead of being too soft.
• Skipping the salted caramel drizzle: The salted caramel adds essential flavor. Don’t forget to drizzle it generously on top before serving!
• Using unmeasured ingredients: Accurately measuring your ingredients is crucial for consistent results. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for best outcomes.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.
• Keep cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator when ready to eat.

Reheating Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for a few minutes until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies special?

These cookies combine the warm flavors of apple pie with the sweetness of caramel, creating a delightful fall treat reminiscent of cozy family gatherings.

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes! Mixing different varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp can enhance texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment based on your preference!

How can I customize my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts, or incorporating raisins or dried cranberries into the apple filling for added texture and taste.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will stay fresh for about 4-5 days in the fridge or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They bring together classic flavors that evoke warmth and comfort. Try customizing them with your favorite nuts or spices, making them your own! You won’t regret adding this recipe to your fall baking lineup.