Name: Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups peeled and finely diced Granny Smith apples; ¼ cup white granulated sugar; 3 tablespoons salted butter; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 refrigerated pie crusts; 1/3 cup caramel topping (about 12 teaspoons); 1 large egg (beaten); 2 tablespoons water; 1-2 tablespoons raw sugar (turbinado sugar)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 68 reviews

If you’re a fan of classic desserts with a fun twist, then this Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. Imagine all the warm, cozy flavors of apple pie packed into a perfectly sized, flaky cookie that’s as easy to share as it is to savor. These delightful bites combine tender Granny Smith apples, cinnamon-spiced filling, and a hint of caramel, all wrapped in a buttery lattice crust that crisps up beautifully in the oven. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just craving a comforting snack, these cookies hit all the right notes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. On the left, there are two rolled pie crusts wrapped in light parchment paper. Near the center, there is a small white bowl filled with smooth, shiny caramel sauce in a rich brown color. Below it is another white bowl with fine white sugar. To the right of the caramel, two green apples with a bright and fresh look sit side by side. Near the bottom center, a white bowl contains white cornstarch, and next to it is a white bowl with a pale yellow block of butter. A white bowl holds a single white egg, and a white spoon contains brown cinnamon powder. There is also a small clear glass cup filled with water and a bright yellow lemon at the bottom left. Each element is clearly labeled with bold black text on a white background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might be simple, but each plays a vital role in making your Apple Pie Cookies Recipe absolutely irresistible. From the tartness of Granny Smith apples to the sweetness of caramel and the richness of butter, every component brings a special touch to the table.

Granny Smith apples, 3 cups peeled and finely diced: Their tartness balances the sweetness perfectly and keeps the filling fresh and zesty.
Sugar, ¼ cup (white, granulated): Sweetens the apples just right without overpowering their natural flavor.
Butter, 3 tablespoons (salted recommended): Adds richness and helps create a smooth, glossy filling texture.
Ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon: A classic spice that infuses warm autumn flavor throughout the filling.
Cornstarch, 1 tablespoon: Thickens the filling so it’s jammy and holds its shape in the cookies.
Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon: Keeps the apples from browning and adds a lovely tanginess to brighten the filling.
Refrigerated pie crusts, 2: Convenient and flaky, they form the perfect base and lattice top for each cookie.
Caramel topping, 1/3 cup: Just the right amount of gooey sweetness to elevate each bite.
Large egg, 1 (beaten): Combined with water, it creates a golden egg wash that gives the crust a shiny, inviting finish.
Water, 2 tablespoons: Lightens the egg wash to help it spread easily and brown evenly.
Raw sugar (turbinado), 1-2 tablespoons: Adds a crunchy, sparkling finish to the cookie tops.

How to Make Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by combining the finely diced Granny Smith apples, sugar, butter, cinnamon, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the apples soften and the mixture thickens into a glossy, jam-like consistency. This step is essential because it develops the rich, spiced apple flavor that will really make your Apple Pie Cookies Recipe shine. Once thickened, remove the filling from heat and allow it to cool while you prepare the pies.

Step 2: Cut the Pie Crust into Circles

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out one of the refrigerated pie crusts. Using a 3-inch round cookie cutter, cut out circles – aim for about 9 from the first crust without needing to re-roll. For the second crust, you’ll use about half for the cookie bases and the rest for the lattice tops on the cookies. Gently place each circle on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them a little apart to give room for expansion during baking.

Step 3: Fill the Cookies

Add about 1 teaspoon of caramel topping into the center of each dough circle—this secret ingredient adds such a lovely indulgent touch! Then spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling on top of the caramel, being careful to keep the edges clean so the cookies will seal properly when the lattice tops go on.

Step 4: Create and Add the Lattice Tops

Take the remaining pie crust and cut it into thin strips to form a lattice. Don’t stress about perfect weaving; simply lay a few strips in one direction and then layer several strips the opposite way to create a rustic lattice pattern. Trim any excess dough at the edges and press gently to seal the lattice to the cookie base. This lattice adds that authentic apple pie look and lets the filling peek through beautifully.

Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Sugar

Whisk the beaten egg with water to create your egg wash. Brush this mixture evenly over the lattice tops to promote a stunning golden color and a subtle sheen. Then sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw sugar over each cookie for an extra touch of sparkle and crunch after baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and the filling bubbles with warmth. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack, as the filling stays very hot for a bit. This step ensures you don’t lose any of those luscious juices.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

The image shows several small round pies with a golden-brown lattice crust on top that reveals a mix of dark brown and orange filling beneath. One pie is broken in half and held by a woman's hand, exposing a thick, sticky filling inside, with a crumbly but firm crust that looks slightly flaky. The pies are stacked closely together on a white marbled surface, and the entire scene looks warm and inviting, with light sparkling on the sugary topping. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving these Apple Pie Cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a small dollop of whipped cream instantly elevates their presentation. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce can also add delightful textures and flavors that make each bite feel extra special.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of chai tea, making the perfect combo for a cozy afternoon treat. For a brunch twist, try them alongside a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, arrange your Apple Pie Cookies on a rustic wooden serving platter, nestling them among fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks. For festive occasions, wrap individual cookies in parchment tied with twine as charming edible gifts. Kids will love decorating their own cookies with additional caramel or sprinkles for a fun, hands-on dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, these Apple Pie Cookies keep well stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The crust stays crisp and the filling remains deliciously moist, making them easy to enjoy later without losing their home-baked charm.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these cookies freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep fresh for up to two months and thaw quickly at room temperature when ready to eat.

Reheating

For that just-baked warmth, reheat your Apple Pie Cookies in a preheated 325°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. This will revive the crispness of the crust and bring the apple filling to a cozy temperature, just like fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples offer the perfect tartness and structure, you can also try Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter, softer filling. Just keep in mind that sweetness levels and moisture content might slightly vary.

Is it okay to use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?

Definitely! Homemade pie crust can add a lovely personal touch. Just roll it out thinly to about the same thickness as store-bought crusts to ensure your cookies bake evenly.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use a dairy-free pie crust to keep the flavor rich without any dairy. You won’t sacrifice any of the yumminess.

How do I avoid soggy bottoms in the cookies?

Make sure your filling is thick and jammy before assembling the cookies, and avoid overfilling. The cornstarch in the recipe helps thicken the filling to prevent sogginess.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Of course! Just be sure to have plenty of pie crust and caramel on hand. Baking in batches helps maintain even oven temperatures and the best texture for your Apple Pie Cookies Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is a gorgeous, delicious way to capture the essence of fall or any cozy moment with friends and family. The blend of tart apples, warm spices, homemade filling, and buttery lattice crust offers a comforting hug in cookie form. I encourage you to give it a try—once you do, these charming little treats will surely earn a permanent spot in your baking repertoire!