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To make perfect apple pie cookies, you need a simple list of ingredients. Here’s what you will need: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed - 1 large egg - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract - 4 medium apples, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) - 2 tablespoons lemon juice - 1 tablespoon cornstarch - 1/4 cup raisins (optional) - 1 egg (for egg wash) - Sugar for sprinkling on top Each ingredient plays a key role in the final taste and texture of the cookies. The flour gives structure, while the sugars add sweetness. The spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, bring warmth and flavor. Cold butter is essential for a flaky cookie. When it comes to apples, I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well and add a nice tartness. If you want to add some extra sweetness, toss in some raisins. They pair well with the apples and spices. Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. I always recommend sourcing your apples locally when possible. For the full recipe, you will find all the steps to create these tasty treats. First, we need to make the apple filling. In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, cornstarch, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss the apples well to coat them evenly. This step is key! Letting the flavors meld makes the filling taste even better. Set it aside while you prepare the dough. Now, let’s make the cookie dough. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold butter until it looks like coarse crumbs. This will give your cookies a nice, flaky texture. Next, mix the egg and vanilla in a separate bowl. Add this to the flour mixture. Stir until the dough holds together. If it feels too crumbly, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time. Chilling the dough is very important. It helps to make the dough easier to roll. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and put them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, roll out one disc on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. This thickness gives the cookies a good bite. Next, we will cut and fill the cookies. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut circles about 3 inches in diameter. Place half of these circles on a baking sheet. Spoon a tablespoon of the apple filling into the center of each circle. Be careful not to overfill! Top each with another circle of dough. Use a fork to press down the edges to seal them well. Cut small slits in the top of each cookie to allow steam to escape. Before baking, let’s add some shine. Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush it on top of the cookies. Then, sprinkle a little sugar on top for sweetness and crunch. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown. Enjoy the wonderful smell that fills your kitchen as they bake! For the full recipe, check out the entire guide. To get the best texture, use cold ingredients. This keeps your cookies tender and flaky. When making the dough, avoid over-mixing. Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft, not tough. Spices can elevate your cookie. Try adding ginger or allspice for warmth. If you like crunch, mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans. You can also add other fruits like pears for a fun twist. If your dough is too crumbly, add cold water slowly. Just a teaspoon at a time helps. For overfilled cookies, you can gently poke a small hole in the top. This allows steam to escape and prevents messy baking. {{image_2}} You can change the flavor of your apple pie cookies by using different apple types. Apples like Granny Smith are tart and add a nice zing. Honeycrisp apples are sweet and crisp, making them a favorite. For a balanced taste, a mix of these apples works well. Other options like Fuji or Gala have a sweeter profile. They work great if you want a less tart cookie. Aim for apples that hold their shape when baked. This way, your cookies won’t turn mushy. For those who need gluten-free options, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Just make sure to adjust the liquid in your dough. For a vegan twist, replace the butter with coconut oil. Use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of eggs. This keeps your cookies moist and flavorful. Always check the labels of your ingredients to avoid hidden animal products. As the seasons change, so can your cookies. In fall, add pumpkin spice for a warm, cozy flavor. You can mix in some chopped pecans for crunch too. For holidays, think about adding cranberries. They give a nice tartness that pairs well with sweet apples. Try adding a bit of orange zest for a fresh twist. These small changes can make your cookies feel festive and special. To keep your apple pie cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to lock in moisture and maintain their soft texture. If you want to keep them crunchy, add a slice of bread to the container. The bread absorbs moisture and keeps cookies crisp. The shelf life of these cookies is about one week at room temperature. You can also keep them in the fridge for up to two weeks. You can freeze these cookies for longer storage. First, cool the baked cookies completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. After a few hours, transfer them into a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together. If you want to freeze raw dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw the baked cookies at room temperature. For raw dough, let it sit out for about 15 minutes before rolling. Bake the cookies straight from the freezer. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Enjoy the fresh-baked taste anytime! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide to making perfect apple pie cookies. To keep your apple pie cookies crisp, follow these tips: - Use cold butter: This helps create a flaky texture. - Do not overfill: Too much filling can make cookies soggy. - Cool on a wire rack: This allows air to circulate and prevents steaming. - Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Yes, you can use pre-made pie dough for your apple pie cookies. Store-bought dough saves time and can taste great. Just roll it out and cut it to size. Look for high-quality options to ensure good flavor. If you want to swap apples, try these fillings: - Pears: They have a sweet and juicy texture. - Cherries: Tart cherries add a nice contrast. - Peaches: Use fresh or canned for a summer twist. - Pumpkin: A great option for fall flavors. Reheat your apple pie cookies for the best taste. Here’s how: - Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 5-10 minutes. - Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds. This method works but may make cookies softer. - Toaster oven: This gives a nice crisp texture. Just heat for 5-7 minutes. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above! This guide covers everything you need for perfect apple pie cookies. You learned about key ingredients, from flour to spices, and how to combine them. You now know the step-by-step process, from making the filling to baking. Tips help you avoid common problems and ensure great texture. Variations allow for creativity, whether for special diets or seasonal flavors. Finally, proper storage keeps your cookies fresh. Enjoy making these tasty treats, knowing you have the right tools and tips!

Perfect Apple Pie Cookies

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these delightful Perfect Apple Pie Cookies! Packed with warm spices and juicy apple filling, these cookies combine the classic flavors of apple pie in a fun, bite-sized treat. Perfect for gatherings or as a cozy dessert at home, these cookies are easy to make and a sure hit. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring this delicious treat to your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1 large egg

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

4 medium apples, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/4 cup raisins (optional)

1 egg (for egg wash)

Sugar for sprinkling on top

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, cornstarch, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss well to coat the apples evenly. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

    Make the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Add the chilled butter cubes and mix with a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

      Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add the egg mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough just comes together. If the dough is too crumbly, add a teaspoon of cold water at a time until it holds together.

        Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

          Preheat and Roll: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.

            Cut and Fill: Using a round cookie cutter (or a glass), cut out circles of dough about 3 inches in diameter. Place half of the circles on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon a tablespoon of the apple filling onto the center of each circle, making sure not to overfill.

              Seal the Cookies: Top with another circle of dough and use a fork to press down the edges, sealing the cookie. Cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

                Egg Wash and Bake: Beat the additional egg in a small bowl and brush the tops of the cookies with the egg wash. Sprinkle a little sugar on top of each cookie for added sweetness and crunch.

                  Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

                    Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 1 hour | 24 cookies