If you’re craving all the cozy flavors of autumn in just one bite, this Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is sure to impress. Imagine buttery, flaky pastry layered with gooey caramel and spiced apple pie filling, baked into adorable hand-held cookies that taste just like mini apple pies with a luscious caramel twist. They’re the ultimate treat for gatherings, bake sales, or anytime you want to surprise friends and family with something special. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you’ll want them in your weekly dessert rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
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For the cookies:
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 cup apple pie filling, chopped into small pieces
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon sugar, for sprinkling
- 1 egg, beaten, for egg wash
- Flour, for dusting
How to Make Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Before you get started, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies won’t stick. Lightly dust a clean countertop with flour so your pie crusts roll out smoothly—this step keeps everything neat and stress-free.
Step 2: Roll Out the Pie Crusts
Unroll both of your refrigerated pie crusts and, using a rolling pin, gently flatten them out on your floured surface. Rolling them a touch thinner (but not too thin!) gives your cookies the perfect texture—crisp outside, tender inside.
Step 3: Layer with Caramel and Apples
Spread a thin layer of caramel sauce over one entire crust, getting all the way to the edges. Evenly sprinkle your finely chopped apple pie filling over the caramel, then dust the top with cinnamon and nutmeg for that unmistakable apple pie aroma.
Step 4: Add the Top Crust and Cut Out Cookies
Lay the second pie crust over the apple-caramel layer like a pie lid. Gently press down and then, using a pizza cutter or a cookie cutter of your choice, cut the layered dough into 2-inch squares or circles. This is where your cookies take shape.
Step 5: Seal and Finish the Cookies
Press the edges of each cookie with a fork to seal them—this gives that charming, classic “pie” look and helps keep all the luscious caramel inside. Brush the tops with beaten egg, then sprinkle sugar over each cookie for a bit of sparkle.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Transfer your cookies to the prepared baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden and the edges look crisp. Let them cool just long enough so you don’t burn your fingers, then drizzle each one with extra caramel sauce before serving.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To really take your Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe over the top, give each cookie a generous swirl of warm caramel sauce right before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of flaked sea salt or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a bakery-worthy finish that highlights all those cozy flavors.
Side Dishes
These cookies are right at home alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They’re also wonderful paired with a mug of hot cider or a strong cup of coffee—perfect for chilly evenings with friends and family.
Creative Ways to Present
Showcase the Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe on a rustic wooden board, nestling them among cinnamon sticks and thinly sliced apples for a picturesque fall dessert spread. Or, stack them in parchment-lined baskets as charming, grab-and-go treats at picnics or bake sales. For festive occasions, serve them warm in individual ramekins with an extra pour of caramel—it feels downright decadent.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature—they’ll stay soft and delicious for up to two days. If you live somewhere particularly humid, slide in a piece of parchment paper between the layers to keep them from sticking together.
Freezing
Want to save your Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe for later? Simply freeze the baked (and cooled) cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then move them to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months, ready for a quick treat whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
To enjoy your cookies warm, pop them on a baking sheet and heat in a 300°F oven for 6-8 minutes, or until just heated through. This restores their crisp, just-baked texture and makes the caramel deliciously gooey again—like they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use homemade apple pie filling and pie crust instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! If you have a little extra time and love to bake from scratch, homemade pie crust and apple pie filling will only deepen the flavors and give your Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe a personal touch. Just make sure your apple pieces are finely chopped for the best results.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pie crust and double-check that your apple pie filling and caramel sauce are gluten-free. The method remains exactly the same, and you’ll still get all the delicious apple pie and caramel flavor.
How do I keep the caramel from leaking out?
Sealing the edges of each cookie well with a fork and keeping your caramel layer thin (but generous) helps prevent leaks. It’s okay if a little caramel escapes—it adds some rustic bakery charm! Just don’t overload each cookie with too much filling.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Definitely! For extra crunch, sprinkle a few chopped pecans or walnuts inside with the apples, or scatter them over the top before baking. You could even try a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra decadent twist on the Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies are best enjoyed within two days. After that, they’ll still be tasty but might lose a bit of their award-winning texture—good thing they never last long in my kitchen!
Final Thoughts
Baking up a batch of the Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is one of the easiest ways I know to fill your kitchen (and your heart) with comfort and joy. These sweet, gooey, handheld treats are always a crowd-pleaser and just might become your new fall favorite. Give them a try and watch smiles blossom at your next gathering!
