If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of fall desserts, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe. These delightful little treats capture everything you love about classic apple pie—sweet caramel, tender apples, and aromatic spices—wrapped up in a buttery, flaky crust you can hold in one hand. They’re perfect for sharing with friends, bringing to a potluck, or simply indulging when you want a cozy, homemade treat that brightens your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering that perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and buttery richness, while also giving the cookies their inviting golden color and flaky texture.
- Refrigerated pie crust (2 crusts): Using pre-made pie dough keeps things easy and flaky, providing the perfect tender base for these cookies.
- Caramel topping (5 oz): This adds a luscious, sticky sweetness that melts beautifully into the apples.
- Apple pie filling (10 oz): Pre-spiced and juicy, it brings that classic apple pie charm without any fuss.
- Large egg: Used for an egg wash that gives the cookies a beautiful golden shine and helps toppings stick.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): This warm spice makes every bite feel cozy and comforting.
- Ground nutmeg (¼ tsp): Adds a subtle, nutty depth that elevates the apple filling.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Sprinkled on top, it caramelizes in the oven for a sweet, crunchy finish.
How to Make Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use nonstick cooking spray. This little prep ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick, making removal a breeze.
Step 2: Ready Your Pie Crust
Let your refrigerated pie crust come to room temperature just a bit so it’s easier to work with. Lightly dust your surface with flour, then gently roll each crust out to loosen it up. This step helps you create those perfect, flaky layers without tearing.
Step 3: Layer Caramel and Apples
Spread a thin, even layer of caramel topping on one crust—this adds gooey sweetness. Chop the apple pie filling into smaller chunks for bite-sized goodness, then scatter it evenly over the caramel. This layering is what makes each cookie explode with flavor.
Step 4: Make a Lattice and Cut Out Cookies
Cut the second crust into ½-inch strips and arrange them in a lattice pattern over the apple layer. This classic pie look isn’t just pretty, it allows steam to escape while baking. Next, use a cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut your lattice-covered crust into circles or squares—whatever shape feels fun!
Step 5: Add Egg Wash and Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Whisk the egg until smooth for an egg wash that you’ll brush over each cookie’s top. Then, mix granulated sugar with cinnamon and nutmeg and sprinkle this fragrant blend on top. This creates that irresistible caramelized crust after baking.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your cookie bites on the prepared sheet and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. When the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and the filling bubbles happily underneath, your Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are ready to come out and cool slightly.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies shine on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on top takes them from delicious to absolutely show-stopping. For a fresh twist, add a few chopped toasted pecans or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair your Caramel Apple Pie Cookies with classic fall drinks like hot apple cider or a cozy cup of chai tea. For a more indulgent treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—each bite feels like a warm hug in dessert form.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these cookies on a rustic wooden board with some fresh apple slices and a small bowl of caramel for dipping to create a stunning dessert platter. For festive occasions, place them in pretty cupcake liners or stack them in a glass jar tied with a ribbon, perfect for gifting or parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extras? Store your Caramel Apple Pie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The cookies will stay fresh, maintaining their flaky crust and gooey filling without getting soggy.
Freezing
These cookies freeze wonderfully! Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you want to enjoy them again, just thaw at room temperature for a few hours—like magic, they taste freshly baked.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, pop your cookies in a 300°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the crust lose its crispness. This gentle reheating refreshes the caramel and spices beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies without refrigerated pie crust?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade dough, a simple butter pie crust recipe works great. Just make sure to roll it out to the right thickness for easy assembly and baking.
Is it possible to use fresh apples instead of apple pie filling?
You can! Use peeled and chopped apples mixed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of sugar. Just cook them down slightly before assembling to ensure the filling is tender and sweet enough.
How do I prevent the cookies from leaking during baking?
Be sure to seal the edges well when you assemble the lattice top and bottom layers. Avoid overfilling and make sure the apple filling isn’t too watery to minimize leaks in the oven.
Can I make these dairy-free or vegan?
Yes! Use a dairy-free pie crust and substitute the egg wash with a mix of plant-based milk and maple syrup for browning. Check your pie filling and caramel toppings to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
Are these cookies suitable for serving at a party?
Definitely! Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal as finger food, and their crowd-pleasing flavors ensure they’ll be popular at any gathering or holiday celebration.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe that makes it an instant favorite. It’s all the joy of apple pie packed into easy, portable bites that bring warmth, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, these cookies are sure to brighten any day—go ahead, give them a try and watch smiles light up all around you!
Print
Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these homemade Caramel Apple Pie Cookies that capture the essence of a classic apple pie in a perfect bite-sized treat. Featuring tender pie crust filled with sweet apple pie filling and rich caramel topping, finished with a cinnamon-spiced sugar sprinkle and golden lattice crust, these cookies are ideal for sharing or enjoying as a festive dessert.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 package (2 crusts) refrigerated pie crust
Filling
- 5 oz caramel topping
- 10 oz apple pie filling
Egg Wash and Topping
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Crusts: Let the refrigerated pie crusts warm slightly at room temperature for easier handling. Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out each crust a little to smooth and loosen them.
- Assemble Bites: Spread a thin, even layer of caramel topping over one of the pie crusts. Chop the apple pie filling into smaller pieces for even distribution and spread it evenly over the caramel layer. Cut the second crust into ½-inch wide strips and arrange them in a lattice pattern over the apple filling.
- Cut and Transfer: Use a cookie cutter or sharp knife to cut the layered crusts into circles or squares sized for individual cookies. Carefully transfer the pie bites onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Prepare Egg Wash and Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, beat the large egg until smooth to create an egg wash. In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar with ground cinnamon and nutmeg to make a flavorful cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Finish and Bake: Brush the tops of each pie cookie with the egg wash to promote browning and help the sugar topping stick. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the tops. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Notes
- Allow the pie crusts to warm slightly but do not over-soften to avoid tearing during handling.
- Using a lattice crust adds a decorative touch and lets the filling peek through.
- Feel free to use your favorite brand of caramel topping and apple pie filling for best flavor.
- Let cookies cool for a few minutes before serving as the filling will be very hot.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
