Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that brings the warmth of fall into your kitchen, these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are just what you need! Imagine biting into a soft, spiced cookie that tastes just like your favorite apple pie, but in a delightful cookie form. The combination of tender apple filling, brown sugar crumble, and a drizzle of luscious salted caramel makes these cookies incredibly special. They’re perfect for family gatherings, busy weeknights, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea on a chilly afternoon.

These cookies are not just delicious; they’re also easy to make! Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just indulging yourself, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fall flavors: These cookies blend the warm spices of apple pie with the sweetness of caramel.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these little bites of heaven!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep the dough or filling in advance to save time on busy days.
• Versatile dessert: Great for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or an everyday treat.
• Easy cleanup: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be in and out of the kitchen quickly!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather these lovely items to create your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies:

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 of diced apple)
• 1/4 cup salted butter, cubed (4 tbsp )
• 2 tbsp apple cider (you can use 1 tsp of lemon juice if you don’t have any cider – note that this is NOT apple cider vinegar!)
• 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 flexible and can be easily adjusted to suit your tastes! Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch to your cookies.
• Mix in chocolate chips: A handful of dark chocolate chips will complement the flavors beautifully.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding ginger or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth.
• Use different apples: Mix up the types of apples based on what’s in season or what you love best!

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

Start by creaming together your softened butter with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until it’s nice and fluffy. Then add both sugars until well combined. Mixing well ensures that your cookies will have that perfect texture. Once mixed, add in the vanilla and eggs. Finally, incorporate the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Chilling it for about 30 minutes makes it easier to scoop and shape later!

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

While your dough chills, rinse and peel those beautiful apples! Dice them into bite-sized chunks and toss them into a medium pan with all the other filling ingredients. Cooking them over medium-high heat allows their natural sweetness to shine through as they soften up. Stir frequently while cooking for about 15-18 minutes until they reach your desired tenderness.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Next up is our decadent salted caramel sauce! Follow my quick method (linked in blue text) to whip this up in just ten minutes! Allow it to cool at room temperature for around 20 minutes; this thickening process is key for achieving that perfect drizzle later on.

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Once everything is prepped, it’s time to scoop out your chilled dough into balls weighing about 65 grams each. Place them in an airtight container so they can chill again—this time either for at least four hours in the fridge or two hours if you pop them in the freezer.

Step 5: Make the Crumble

While your dough chills once more, let’s prepare that crunchy crumble topping! Preheat your oven to 350°F. Melt some butter in a mixing bowl before stirring in all other crumble ingredients until you achieve that lovely crumbly texture. Spread it onto parchment paper-lined pans and bake until golden brown.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Now we’re ready to bake those lovely cookie balls! Preheat your oven once more—this time to 365°F—line cookie sheets with parchment paper, then roll each dough ball into cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them on sheets with enough space between. Bake for around 10-12 minutes until edges look set yet centers remain slightly puffy.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cooled slightly, gently press into each cookie center using a tablespoon before spooning generous amounts of apple pie filling inside. Sprinkle over that crunchy crumble topping you’ve made earlier followed by drizzling with warm salted caramel sauce!

Step 8: Serve & Store

Dig into these delicious goodies right away after assembling! Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container within your fridge for about five days—just remember not to keep them out at room temperature too long due to fresh fruit content.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies; I know they’ll become a family favorite before you know it!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Making these delightful cookies can be a breeze with just a few helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough not only makes it easier to handle but also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, resulting in a thicker cookie with a chewy center.
• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the filling. Fresh apples enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies, making them taste just like homemade apple pie.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should look slightly underdone in the center when you pull them out. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet and set up perfectly as they cool.
• Customize Your Spice Blend: Feel free to adjust the spices in both the cookie dough and apple filling to suit your personal taste. Adding more cinnamon or a dash of ginger can give your cookies an extra warm flavor that’s perfect for fall.
• Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This will help maintain their moisture and prevent them from getting stale.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying during cozy nights at home.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy texture that pairs wonderfully with the rich caramel and spiced cookie.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramel and apples.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the warm cookies, creating a classic dessert duo that everyone loves.
• Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve extra salted caramel sauce on the side for drizzling or dipping—it’s a decadent addition that enhances each bite!
• Spiced Hot Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider with hints of cinnamon and cloves is perfect for sipping alongside these cookies, enhancing their cozy fall flavors.
• Cheese Platter: Pairing with mild cheeses like brie or gouda creates an interesting sweet-savory balance, making for a sophisticated treat option at gatherings.

Enjoy making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies! Each bite brings warmth and comfort that’s sure to create lasting memories.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not only a delight to make, but they also shine when it comes to meal prep! You can whip up the components ahead of time, making it easy to enjoy fresh cookies whenever you crave them.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Keep assembled cookies separate from the salted caramel sauce if possible to maintain their texture.
• If storing unassembled cookies, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze cookie dough balls before baking by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• You can freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them in a container.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, use the microwave: heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delicious treats, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens. Alternatively, use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg.

What makes Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies so special?

These cookies combine the comforting flavors of apple pie with the convenience of a cookie format. The salted caramel drizzle elevates their taste, making them an irresistible treat!

How do I store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies after baking?

Store assembled cookies in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 4-5 days but are best enjoyed sooner rather than later!

Can I add nuts to my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would add a lovely crunch and depth of flavor. Just be sure any additions complement the other ingredients.

How long will my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies last in the freezer?

Baked cookies can be frozen for up to two months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped or sealed in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies as I do! They’re more than just a treat; they bring warmth and happiness into your kitchen and home. Whether you’re sharing them at gatherings or enjoying them on a cozy night in, these cookies are bound to impress. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try this delightful recipe!