If you’re craving the warm, comforting flavors of autumn wrapped up in a delightful, handheld treat, this Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine buttery pie crust layered with sweet caramel and spiced apple pie filling, baked to golden perfection and topped with a cinnamon-sugar sparkle. These little bites capture all the goodness of a classic apple pie but in a fun and easy cookie form that’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a sweet snack anytime. Once you try this Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Caramel Apple Pie Cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—from the flaky pie crust that forms the cookie base to the cozy spices that bring a burst of autumn flavor. With just a handful of components, you’re set for a delicious baking adventure that’s as fun as it is rewarding.
- Refrigerated pie crust (1 package, 2 crusts): Provides the flaky, buttery foundation for the cookies and keeps preparation quick and easy.
- Caramel topping (5 oz): Adds rich, creamy sweetness that perfectly complements the tart apples.
- Apple pie filling (10 oz): Chopped into bite-sized pieces, it’s the star fruity filling packed with comforting spices.
- Large egg (1): Used for the egg wash, it creates a beautiful golden shine and helps toppings stick.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and classic apple-pie spice throughout the cookies.
- Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds subtle depth and cozy flavor accents.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Mixed with spices to sprinkle on top, it adds a sweet, crunchy finish.
How to Make Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Surface
Kick things off by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light spritz of nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures clean, easy cookie removal without sticking or mess.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crusts
Let the refrigerated pie crusts come to room temperature briefly so they’re softer and easier to work with. Dust your work surface lightly with flour, then roll out each crust just a little to smoothen and ease shaping—this step is key to getting a nice, even cookie with no cracks.
Step 3: Layer the Flavors
Spread a thin, even layer of caramel topping over one crust—this golden layer is what makes these cookies irresistibly decadent. Next, chop your apple pie filling into smaller chunks so every bite has a perfect balance of fruit and crust. Spread the apples evenly over the caramel layer.
Step 4: Create the Lattice Top
Cut the second pie crust into half-inch-wide strips. Carefully lay these strips over the apple filling in a classic lattice pattern—this not only looks pretty but holds everything together beautifully. Then, use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut out circles or squares from the layered dough, creating your individual cookie pies. Place them gently onto your prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Add Egg Wash and Spice Topping
Beat the egg in a small bowl until smooth. In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Brush each cookie lightly with the egg wash—this gives them a perfect golden-brown color when baked. Then sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture on top to add a sweet, spiced crunch.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop your cookies into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You want to see a gorgeous golden crust and bubbling filling peeking through. The aroma alone will tell you these Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are ready to be savored!
How to Serve Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies shine on their own but feel free to dress them up a bit. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch. If you’re in the mood, a small dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes every bite feel like a mini indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pair your Caramel Apple Pie Cookies with a hot cup of spiced cider, chai tea, or a mellow latte for a delightful contrast. These cozy beverages highlight the warm spices and sweetness in the cookies, creating a perfectly balanced snack or dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these beauties on a rustic wooden board or a charming pie plate for a cozy, homey vibe. Arrange them alongside tiny bowls of extra caramel sauce or cinnamon sugar for dipping. They also make fantastic gifts—wrap a few in parchment paper tied with twine for a thoughtful homemade treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the crispness of the crust and keeps the filling moist and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these later, freeze the unbaked cookie rounds on a parchment-lined tray until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a fresh-baked treat anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–7 minutes. This warms them through while restoring that magical flaky crust crispness you love. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds a lovely personal touch and can enhance flavor and texture even more. Just make sure it’s chilled well before rolling out.
What kind of apple pie filling works best?
Look for a chunky apple pie filling with a good balance of sweet and tart flavors. If you prefer, you can dice fresh apples and toss them with cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar for a fresher option.
How do I prevent the lattice crust from burning?
Keep an eye on your cookies during baking, and if the crust starts to brown too quickly, tent them loosely with foil to protect the top while the filling finishes cooking.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the pie crust with a gluten-free alternative, you can enjoy this recipe without gluten. Just choose a crust that holds together well for the lattice design.
How should I store leftover cookies if they are already baked?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, ideally layered between parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. They stay fresh for a few days this way.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe brings all the best parts of a beloved fall dessert into a fun and bite-sized treat that’s easy to make and impossible not to love. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, gifting to friends, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies capture cozy autumn comfort in every sweet, spiced bite. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—you’re going to adore how simple ingredients come together in such a memorable way!
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Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Delightful caramel apple pie cookies that combine the classic flavors of apple pie with a flaky crust, caramel topping, and a cinnamon-spiced sugar sprinkle. These bite-sized treats are perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or a comforting snack any time of the year.
Ingredients
Pie Crusts
- 1 package (2 crusts) refrigerated pie crust
Filling
- 5 oz caramel topping
- 10 oz apple pie filling
Egg Wash & Topping
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to ensure the cookies won’t stick during baking.
- Prepare Crusts: Allow the refrigerated pie crusts to warm slightly at room temperature to make them easier to handle. Lightly dust a clean work surface with flour, then roll out each crust a bit to flatten and even them out for assembly.
- Assemble Bites: Spread a thin layer of caramel topping evenly over one of the rolled-out crusts. Chop the apple pie filling into smaller pieces to distribute well and spread evenly over the caramel layer. Cut the second crust into thin ½-inch strips and weave them in a lattice pattern on top of the apple filling. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the layered pastry into circles or squares to form individual pie bites. Carefully transfer these pie cookies to your prepared baking sheet.
- Egg Wash and Topping: In a small bowl, beat the egg until smooth. In another bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Brush the tops of each pie bite generously with the beaten egg wash, then sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar-spice mixture to add a sweet and flavorful crust finish.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crusts turn a beautiful golden brown and the filling is bubbly, signaling that your pie cookies are perfectly baked and ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Allow the pie crust to warm slightly before working to prevent cracking.
- Chopping the apple filling creates a more even distribution of apples in each bite.
- You can use a muffin tin to hold the cookies if you want a more uniform shape during baking.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the cinnamon sugar topping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
