Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, let me introduce you to my cherished Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies. They combine the heartwarming flavors of apple pie with the delightful charm of cookies! Imagine biting into a soft, spiced cookie filled with tender apples, all topped off with a crumbly brown sugar mixture and drizzled with luscious salted caramel sauce. It’s like having mini apple pies right in your hand!

These cookies are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a little something sweet or for family gatherings where everyone is craving dessert. They bring smiles and warmth to any occasion, making them truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: These cookies deliver all the classic apple pie flavors in every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet treats!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time to save on prep when you’re ready to bake.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 14 cookies in one batch, they’re great for sharing at gatherings or enjoying throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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 use 1 tsp of 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! Here are a few fun variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans to add a nice crunch to your cookies.
• Try different fruits: Mix in pears or cranberries for a new twist on flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for those avoiding gluten.

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. The goal here is to blend it well until it’s smooth. Next, mix in both sugars until they’re fully combined—this usually takes about one minute. Then add the vanilla and eggs; mixing until just combined is crucial here to avoid overworking the dough. Finish by adding the dry ingredients last; this helps create a lovely cookie dough. Chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes so it’s 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 pieces. Heat up all apple filling ingredients in a medium pan over medium-high heat. This step is important because cooking brings out their natural sweetness! Stir occasionally for about 15-18 minutes until they reach your desired tenderness. Once done, transfer them to a bowl to cool—this can be done at room temperature or in the fridge.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Follow my easy recipe for homemade salted caramel sauce—it takes just about ten minutes! Let it cool at room temperature until it thickens slightly; this will help it stay drizzly but not runny when you assemble your cookies.

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Once your dough has chilled, scoop it into balls that are about 65 grams each using a large cookie scoop. Place them in an airtight container and chill again—in the fridge for at least four hours or freezer for two hours. Chilling before baking ensures they hold their shape nicely while baking.

Step 5: Make the Crumble

While your dough chills, let’s whip up that delicious crumble topping! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, melt some butter and stir in remaining streusel ingredients until they form a crumbly mixture. Spread this mixture onto a parchment-lined pan and bake until golden brown—about 12-14 minutes should do! Once cooled, break up any larger pieces as desired.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Now preheat your oven again slightly higher, to 365°F (185°C). Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and spices—this is going to coat our cookies beautifully! Roll each dough ball into this mixture before placing six per sheet with ample space between them. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers look puffy.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cooled, gently press an indent into each cookie’s center using the back of a tablespoon. Spoon warm apple pie filling into each one generously, sprinkle on that crunchy crumble topping, then drizzle over your salted caramel sauce.

Step 8: Serve & Store

Dig in right away once assembled because they taste best fresh! If there are leftovers (which I doubt), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for about four-five days—just remember not to leave them out overnight due to the fresh fruit!

I hope you enjoy making these lovely Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies as much as I do! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your treats come out perfectly every time!

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill not only makes it easier to handle but also helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in a thicker, chewier texture.

• Use Fresh Apples: Opting for fresh, crisp apples enhances the flavor and texture of the filling. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp add a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness of the caramel.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake! They should look slightly underdone in the center when you take them out. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool, ensuring a soft and chewy bite.

• Customize the Spice Blend: Feel free to adjust the spices in both the cookie dough and apple filling to match your personal taste. Adding a touch more cinnamon or nutmeg can create an even more aromatic experience!

• Make Ahead: Preparing components like the apple filling, crumble, and salted caramel sauce ahead of time can save you stress on baking day. Just store them properly in the fridge, and everything will be ready when you’re set to assemble your cookies.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not only visually appealing but also perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party, presenting these cookies with flair will surely impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of Extra Caramel: A light drizzle of extra salted caramel over each cookie adds an indulgent touch and enhances their visual appeal.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve these cookies with a dollop of whipped coconut cream on top for added richness.
• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar before serving gives an extra hint of sweetness and makes them look irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
• Hot Chocolate: For a cozy dessert experience, serve these cookies alongside a cup of rich hot chocolate. The warmth complements the flavors perfectly!
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the richness of the cookies. Use seasonal fruits like pears and berries for freshness and color.
• Coffee or Tea: Offering coffee or tea as accompaniments helps enhance the overall experience, making them great for an afternoon treat or dessert after dinner.

Enjoy every bite of these dreamy Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies! With their delightful flavors and textures, they are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make the dough, filling, and crumble ahead of time, making your baking day a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store assembled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources to maintain their freshness.
• If storing unbaked dough balls, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 48 hours.

Freezing

• To freeze assembled cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
• For unbaked dough balls, scoop them onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to warm through while keeping them soft.
• If you’re reheating from frozen, allow extra time as needed until they are heated through.
• Enjoy with a drizzle of fresh salted caramel sauce for that ultimate indulgence!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful cookies!

Can I use another type of apple for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! While I recommend using sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best flavor, feel free to experiment with other varieties that you enjoy.

How do I store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Store your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious!

Can I make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the salted caramel sauce ahead of time. Let it cool completely after making it and store it in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

What if I can’t find apple cider?

If you don’t have apple cider on hand, you can substitute it with lemon juice (just 1 teaspoon will do). It adds a nice tang without compromising flavor!

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! Both assembled cookies and unbaked dough balls can be frozen. Just remember to store them properly in airtight containers or freezer bags!

Final Thoughts

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are more than just treats; they’re little bundles of joy that bring warmth and comfort. With their perfect balance of flavors and textures, they’re sure to impress everyone around your table. I hope you enjoy baking these lovely cookies as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try – happy baking!