Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that wraps the essence of fall into a delightful bite, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies! These little gems capture the warmth of an apple pie with a fun twist, transforming the classic dessert into chewy cookies. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want to indulge in something sweet during a quiet evening, these cookies are sure to bring joy and comfort.

What makes these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies special is not just their flavor but also their versatility. They make for a fantastic dessert after dinner, a delightful addition to your lunchbox, or even a sweet surprise for guests at any gathering. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a cherished favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Making these cookies is straightforward, with no complicated techniques involved!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of flavors; they’re perfect for sharing!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare dough or filling ahead of time, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of warm spices, tender apples, and rich salted caramel creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From cozy nights at home to festive gatherings, these cookies fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’re going to love how simple and wholesome the ingredients are for these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies! Gather these pantry staples, and you’ll be on your way to baking up something truly special.

For the Cookies

• 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 of diced apple)
• 1/4 cup salted butter, cubed (4 tbsp)
• 2 tbsp apple cider (or 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

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 mix things up based on your preferences or what you have available at home.

• Change up the fruit: Use pears or peaches instead of apples for a different fruity twist!
• Add nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for added crunch.
• Try different spices: Experiment with pumpkin spice or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures like regular flour.

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. Add both sugars and mix until they’re well combined—this step is crucial as it creates lightness in your cookies. Next, add in the vanilla extract and eggs until just combined. Finally, mix in your dry ingredients until a dough forms. Chilling this dough for about 30 minutes helps make it easier to roll into balls later!

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Start by rinsing and peeling your apples before dicing them into bite-sized chunks. Combine all filling ingredients in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Cook for about 15-18 minutes while stirring occasionally; this will soften the apples beautifully while enhancing their natural sweetness. Once done, let it cool either at room temperature or in the fridge.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my easy method for creating luscious salted caramel sauce! Allow it to cool at room temperature until thickened—this usually takes about 20 minutes. If made ahead of time, store it in an airtight jar in your refrigerator!

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Using a large cookie scoop, portion out dough balls (about 65 grams each) into an airtight container. Chill them in your fridge for at least four hours or freeze them if you’re prepping ahead. Remember to scoop first before chilling; it makes everything so much easier!

Step 5: Make the Crumble

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt some butter in a bowl and stir together with remaining crumble ingredients until crumbly. Spread this mixture onto parchment-lined pans and bake until golden brown—around 12-14 minutes. Once cooled, break apart any larger pieces as desired!

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Now it’s time to bake! Preheat your oven again but to 365°F (185°C). Prepare baking sheets with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix together sugar with spices for coating before rolling each chilled dough ball in this mixture. Place them on your sheets with space between each cookie as they will spread while baking! Bake them until edges look set but centers are slightly puffy—around 10-12 minutes.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cooled slightly, use the back of a tablespoon to press indents into each cookie’s center. Spoon some apple filling right into those indents, sprinkle on that crunchy crumble topping you made earlier, and finish off with a drizzle of your homemade salted caramel sauce.

Step 8: Serve & Store

Enjoy your delicious creations immediately after assembling! If there are any leftovers (which I doubt!), store them in an airtight container in your fridge for about four to five days—just keep in mind they should not sit out overnight due to fresh fruit.

Now that you’ve made these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies from scratch, gather around with friends or family—they’re meant to be shared!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Making these delightful cookies can be a breeze if you follow a few simple tips. Here are some helpful pointers to ensure your baking experience is as sweet as the cookies themselves!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with softened butter and room temperature eggs helps create a smooth, creamy dough that blends evenly, ensuring your cookies are tender and fluffy.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill not only makes it easier to handle but also helps prevent spreading while baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.

• Don’t Skip the Cooling Time: Letting the cookies cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack allows them to set properly, keeping their shape while preventing any breakage.

• Experiment with Apples: Different apple varieties bring unique flavors; for instance, Granny Smith apples add a tart bite, while Honeycrisp offers a sweeter taste. Mixing varieties can enhance the filling’s complexity.

• Make Extra Salted Caramel Sauce: You can never have too much caramel! Having extra on hand means you can drizzle more on top or serve it alongside for dipping—it’s simply irresistible!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are perfect for gatherings, cozy nights at home, or even as a sweet gift! Here are some fun ideas to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Flaky Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel enhances its flavor and adds an elegant touch.
• Chopped Nuts: A handful of finely chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled atop the cookies adds crunch and complements the apple pie flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with these warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• Spiced Hot Cider: Serve these cookies alongside a warm mug of spiced apple cider for an enchanting fall experience that brings out all the cozy vibes.
• Coffee or Tea: A rich cup of coffee or soothing herbal tea makes an excellent companion, balancing the sweetness of the cookies and providing a comforting beverage choice.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits can provide a light and healthy contrast to the richness of the cookies, making for a well-rounded dessert spread.

Enjoy crafting your own delicious memories with these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can prepare various components ahead of time, making it easy to assemble and enjoy fresh cookies anytime.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
• If you have leftover cookie dough, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls for future baking.
• To maintain freshness, avoid leaving cookies at room temperature overnight due to the fresh apple filling.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid.
• Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container and label with the date. They can be stored for up to 1 month.
• For baked cookies, allow them to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container; they will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Reheat baked cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• If you prefer them warm and gooey, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

If you have any questions about these delicious cookies, you’re in the right place!

Can I use other types of apples for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, feel free to experiment with Honeycrisp, Fuji, or any apple variety you enjoy. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold up during baking.

How do I store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Store your assembled cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. For optimal freshness, keep them away from room temperature overnight due to the apple filling.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes! The apple filling can be prepared up to two days in advance. Simply store it in a jar or airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your cookies.

How do I freeze Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

To freeze unbaked dough balls, scoop and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Baked cookies can be frozen once cooled completely. Both will keep well for about a month.

What makes these cookies special?

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies combine all the beloved flavors of classic apple pie into a convenient cookie form. With tender apple filling, spiced cookie dough, and rich salted caramel drizzle, they’re perfect for any fall gathering!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies! They embody everything we love about fall—warm spices, sweet apples, and that glorious salted caramel finish. Enjoy every moment spent baking and sharing these delightful treats with family and friends. Happy baking!