Name: Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups peeled and finely diced Granny Smith apples; ¼ cup granulated white 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· 4.2 from 78 reviews

If you love the cozy flavors of homemade pie but want a handheld treat that’s easier to enjoy anytime, you’re going to adore this Apple Pie Cookies Recipe. These delightful little gems capture all the warmth of spiced apples, buttery crust, and a caramel finish, wrapped up in a perfectly portable cookie form. They’re the ideal mix of tender and crisp, sweet yet tangy, making every bite feel like a celebration of fall in the most comforting way possible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collection of baking ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface. On the left, there are two rolled pie crusts wrapped in parchment paper, beige in color. Next to them are two whole green apples, smooth and shiny. Below the apples is a small white bowl filled with rich, glossy caramel sauce, dark caramel brown. Below it is another white bowl with fine white sugar. To its right, a small glass bowl contains light brown raw sugar. There is a clear glass measuring cup with water next to that. Below are more small white bowls: one with a whole white egg, one with white cornstarch, one with a block of pale yellow butter, and one with ground cinnamon in a warm brown color. A bright yellow lemon is placed on the lower left. Each ingredient is labeled with black and white text. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for creating that iconic apple pie flavor with a tender cookie twist. Each item plays a crucial role in building rich taste, delightful texture, or that signature golden crumble color.

3 cups peeled and finely diced Granny Smith apples: The crisp, tart apples balance the cookie’s sweetness perfectly and provide that classic pie filling texture.
¼ cup sugar white, granulated: Adds just enough sweetness to enhance the apples without overpowering their natural tartness.
3 tablespoons butter (salted preferred): Melts into the filling for a rich, silky mouthfeel that feels indulgent in every bite.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The warming spice that immediately transports you to cozy fall afternoons.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: This thickens the juicy filling so it’s perfectly jammy and not runny.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the sweetness while preventing the apples from browning.
2 refrigerated pie crusts: Convenient, flaky, and buttery – the perfect base and lattice top to hold the filling.
1/3 cup caramel topping: A luscious layer that adds richness and a little sticky sweetness beneath the apple filling.
1 large egg (beaten): Makes the egg wash that gives your cookies an irresistible golden sheen.
2 tablespoons water: Mixed with egg to create the perfect wash to help the crust brown evenly.
1-2 tablespoons raw sugar (turbinado sugar): Sprinkled on top for subtle crunch and a hint of molasses flavor.

How to Make Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Begin by combining the diced Granny Smith apples, sugar, butter, cinnamon, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. Watch closely as it transforms from juicy apples into a thick, jammy filling that’s glossy and just holds together. This step builds the heart of your apple pie cookies, and letting it cool is key for easy assembly.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures your cookies bake evenly with a golden crust.

Step 3: Cut the Pastry Circles

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out one refrigerated pie crust. Use a 3-inch round cookie cutter to cut out your cookie bases. You’ll be able to get nine circles from the first crust if you avoid re-rolling too much. The second crust will provide enough dough for the remaining three bases plus the lattice strips.

Step 4: Fill the Cookies

Place each pastry circle on the lined baking sheets, spaced slightly apart. Spoon about one teaspoon of caramel topping into the center of each base, then pile 1 to 2 tablespoons of your cooled apple filling on top. Be sure to keep the edges clean so the cookies seal properly in the next step.

Step 5: Add the Lattice Tops

Cut the remaining pie crust into thin strips for the lattice tops. Simply layer a few strips in one direction over each filled cookie, then add strips the other way, creating a rustic lattice. Don’t stress about perfect weaving — a casual criss-cross is charming and delicious. Trim any overhang and gently press edges to seal.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash and Sprinkle Sugar

Combine the beaten egg with water and brush this glaze over every lattice-topped cookie, giving them the golden finish that looks as good as they taste. Top with 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw sugar for an extra bit of crunch and sparkle.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your apple pie cookies for 15 to 18 minutes until their crusts are golden and the filling bubbles enticingly. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes — this filling can be hot and sticky! Once cooled slightly, transfer your warm cookies to a wire rack and get ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

The image shows a pile of small round mini pies with golden brown lattice crusts on top. Each pie has two layers visible: the bottom layer is a flat round base crust, pale golden and firm, while the top layer is a crisscross pattern of thin dough strips baked to a light golden color with a sprinkling of sugar crystals. Inside the lattice is a glossy, brown filling that looks sticky and thick. One mini pie is held up by a woman's hand, showing a bite taken from it, revealing the gooey, chunky filling inside. The pies are arranged on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a small dollop of whipped cream can elevate the apple pie cookies beautifully. For a real showstopper, drizzle warm caramel or lightly sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top to add texture and more flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, turning your snack into a quick dessert rendezvous. They’re also lovely alongside a hot mug of cinnamon-spiced tea or classic coffee, making for an irresistible afternoon treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange your Apple Pie Cookies Recipe cookies on a rustic wooden board with seasonal apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a festive feel. Use small cupcake liners to keep them tidy on a platter or stack them with parchment paper between layers if transporting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Apple Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This preserves the crispness of the crust and prevents the filling from drying out, so each bite tastes fresh and inviting.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the fully cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for 8 to 10 minutes. This revives the flaky crust and soft filling beautifully, giving you that fresh-from-the-oven feeling any time.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples give a great tart balance, you can use Fuji, Honeycrisp, or even a mix for a sweeter, more complex flavor. Just make sure to adjust sugar slightly if you use naturally sweeter apples.

Is it okay to use pre-made pie crust?

Yes! Using refrigerated pie crust saves time and adds a reliably flaky texture. Just handle it gently to keep those tender layers intact.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap out the regular pie crust for a gluten-free variety, and verify any other packaged ingredients are gluten-free. The filling is naturally gluten-free.

How long can I store these cookies before they lose freshness?

For best taste and texture, enjoy within three days when stored properly. Beyond that, they may start to sog or lose their crisp edges.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, the recipe scales wonderfully! Just be sure to have plenty of baking sheets or bake in batches so the cookies bake evenly and maintain their shape.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Apple Pie Cookies Recipe — it’s the perfect way to enjoy all the aromas and flavors of classic apple pie without the fuss. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or bringing a sweet treat to friends, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and warmth to any occasion. So grab your apron, bring the apples and caramel, and savor a new favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.