Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, look no further than these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies! These little gems bring the warm, comforting flavors of classic apple pie into a fun and easy-to-eat cookie form. They’re filled with tender apple filling, topped with a crunchy brown sugar crumble, and finished off with a luscious drizzle of salted caramel sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your home!

I love whipping up a batch of these cookies when the leaves start to change and the air gets crisp. They fill the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that invites everyone in. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy get-together or enjoying them with a cup of tea on a quiet afternoon, they always bring smiles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious flavor: The combination of spiced apples and salted caramel is simply irresistible!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these sweet treats.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
• Versatile treat: These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies use simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to make this delicious recipe!

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! Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to the filling.
• Mix up the spices: Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom for added warmth.
• Use different fruits: Pears or berries can be substituted for apples if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter using an electric mixer on medium-high speed. Adding both sugars here allows them to mix thoroughly into the butter, creating that lovely texture we want in our cookies. Once combined, toss in the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until just combined. Finally, add your dry ingredients; this is where your dough truly takes shape! Be sure to chill it for about 30 minutes – this makes rolling easier later on.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Rinse and peel your apples before dicing them into bite-sized chunks. In a medium pan over medium-high heat, combine your diced apples with all the other filling ingredients. Cook them gently while stirring occasionally for about 15-18 minutes until they soften just right. This step is crucial because it melds all those wonderful flavors together! Once ready, transfer your apple mixture into a bowl to cool down.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my quick recipe for making salted caramel sauce – it’s as simple as melting sugar until golden brown and whisking in butter and cream! Allow it to cool down at room temperature until thickened; this will help create that perfect drizzle later on.

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Using a large cookie scoop, scoop out balls of dough weighing about 65 grams each. Place these dough balls in an airtight container in your fridge. Chilling is key here; it helps prevent spreading during baking!

Step 5: Make the Crumble

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In another bowl, melt some butter before mixing in all of your crumble ingredients until crumbly. Spread this mixture onto a parchment-lined pan and bake until golden brown – this will give you that delightful crunch!

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Raise your oven temperature slightly to 365°F (185°C) while lining cookie sheets with parchment paper. Roll those chilled dough balls in some cinnamon-sugar before placing them on your sheets – just six per sheet should do! Bake them for about 10-12 minutes until they’re set yet slightly underbaked in the center; they’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cooled slightly, use a tablespoon’s back to create an indent in each cookie’s center. Spoon generous amounts of apple pie filling into each cookie before sprinkling on that delicious crumble topping and drizzling with salted caramel sauce.

Step 8: Serve & Store

Enjoy these mouthwatering creations immediately after assembling! If there are any leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container in your fridge for up to five days—though I doubt they’ll last that long!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Creating these delightful cookies is a joy, and with a few helpful tips, you can make them even more scrumptious!

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough not only helps in rolling it into perfect balls but also improves the texture of your cookies, making them chewier and less likely to spread too much while baking.

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, firm apples yield the best flavor and texture for the filling. Opt for crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for that perfect sweet-tart balance.

• Don’t Skip the Caramel Sauce: The salted caramel sauce is what takes these cookies to the next level! Making it from scratch ensures you control the sweetness and saltiness, giving a rich finish that complements the apple filling beautifully.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare both the apple filling and crumble topping ahead of time. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld together wonderfully.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a bit more cinnamon or a hint of ginger can create a unique twist on these classic cookies!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are lovely on their own, but with a few touches, you can elevate your presentation and overall experience!

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a delightful creaminess and pairs beautifully with the flavors of caramel and apple.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some crushed walnuts or pecans on top for extra crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the cookies.
• Extra Caramel Drizzle: A little extra drizzle of salted caramel right before serving enhances visual appeal and adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside warm cookies creates a comforting dessert experience everyone will love.
• Spiced Chai Tea: Serve these cookies with a cup of spiced chai tea for a cozy autumn treat that warms both body and soul.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad balances out the sweetness of the cookies with fresh, tangy flavors—perfect for a brunch spread!
• Pumpkin Soup: For an unexpected yet delightful pairing, serve these cookies as a dessert after a bowl of creamy pumpkin soup; it’s an autumn feast in every bite!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies will be even more enjoyable. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make the dough, filling, and even the caramel sauce ahead of time to save you precious moments during busy weeks or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
• If you have leftovers after assembling, it’s best to store them in the fridge due to the fresh apple filling.

Freezing

• Freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month.
• You can also freeze baked cookies (without toppings) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For warm cookies, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes or until warmed through.
• If they’ve been frozen, allow them to thaw before reheating for best results.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delicious cookies!

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

How do I ensure my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies stay soft?

To keep your cookies soft, avoid overbaking them. The centers should look slightly underdone before cooling.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the caramel sauce?

You can substitute with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative if needed.

Can I use different fruits in these cookies?

Yes! While apples are traditional, you could experiment with pears or berries for a fun twist.

How long do these cookies last after baking?

Once assembled, they last about 4-5 days in the fridge due to the fresh fruit filling.

Final Thoughts

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are truly special, blending the comforting flavors of apple pie with the delightful texture of cookies. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do! Gather your loved ones and share these treats—they’re bound to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!