Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that brings the essence of fall into your kitchen, you’ve found it! These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful blend of sweet and spiced flavors that will remind you of your favorite apple pie—all in the form of cookies. They’re perfect for family gatherings, busy weeknights, or even just a cozy afternoon treat. I love how these cookies feel like a warm hug, especially when they’re fresh out of the oven, and that salted caramel drizzle? Pure magic!

Get ready to impress your friends and family with these little bites of joy. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a simple weekend get-together, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly delicious: The combination of spiced apple filling, buttery cookie dough, and rich salted caramel creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
• Easy to make: With simple steps and ingredients, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough and filling in advance, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked cookies anytime.
• Perfect for sharing: These cookies are ideal for potlucks or as gifts—everyone loves homemade treats!
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different spices or toppings to make this recipe your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to whip up these delightful 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)
• 1/4 cup salted butter, cubed (4 tbsp)
• 2 tbsp apple cider (or 1 tsp lemon juice if cider isn’t available)
• 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 some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch to your cookies.
• Use different fruits: Mix in some berries or pears for a twist on the classic apple filling.
• Change the spices: Experiment with pumpkin spice or ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those who prefer it.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

Start by creaming together the softened butter using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until it’s smooth. Adding both sugars creates that perfect sweetness we associate with cookies. Once combined, mix in the vanilla extract and eggs until just blended. Finally, incorporate the dry ingredients! Chilling the dough after mixing will help it hold its shape while baking.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

While your dough chills, prep your apples! After peeling and dicing them into bite-sized chunks, cook them with delicious spices over medium-high heat. This step helps soften the apples while infusing them with flavor. Stir occasionally until they reach your desired tenderness—don’t forget to taste along the way!

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Prepare your luscious salted caramel sauce using my easy method. Cooking sugar until it melts creates that beautiful amber color; then add butter and cream for richness. Once cooled slightly, this sauce will thicken up perfectly for drizzling later.

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Scoop about 65 grams of dough into balls using a large cookie scoop—this keeps them uniform in size! Chill them for at least four hours so they firm up nicely before baking. This step is crucial because chilled dough makes for thicker cookies that won’t spread too much.

Step 5: Make the Crumble

While waiting on your dough, it’s time to create that irresistible crumble topping! Melt some butter in a bowl and stir in the remaining ingredients until crumbly. Baking this mixture gets it golden brown and crispy—delicious!

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven while rolling those chilled dough balls into cinnamon-sugar goodness. Place them on lined cookie sheets with enough space for spreading during baking. Keep an eye on them; they’ll be puffed but slightly underdone when you take them out—the perfect texture!

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

Once cooled slightly, gently press an indent into each cookie center—this is where all that lovely apple filling will go! Spoon it in generously before finishing off with crumbles and drizzles of salted caramel sauce.

Step 8: Serve & Store

These cookies are best enjoyed immediately after assembling when they’re at their most gooey state! However, if you have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days—though I doubt they’ll last that long!

With these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies in hand, you’re sure to create sweet memories this season! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Creating these delightful cookies can be a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some tips to ensure your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies turn out perfectly.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with butter and eggs at room temperature helps them blend more smoothly into the dough, leading to a better texture in your cookies.

• Don’t Skip Chilling the Dough: Chilling the cookie dough is essential for controlling spread. This will help you achieve thick, chewy cookies that maintain their shape while baking.

• Measure Apples Correctly: Diced apples should be measured after peeling and chopping to ensure you get the right amount. This ensures every cookie is generously filled with delicious apple goodness!

• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time. You want them slightly underbaked in the center for that perfect chewy texture.

• Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. More cinnamon or a dash of ginger can add a unique twist that makes these cookies even more special!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting them beautifully can enhance your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top adds a creamy texture that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling some chopped pecans or walnuts over the caramel drizzle adds an extra crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with apples.
• Extra Caramel Drizzle: A little extra salted caramel sauce drizzled on top before serving makes for a stunning presentation and enhances sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside these cookies creates a delightful contrast between warm and cold, making every bite heavenly.
• Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider as a cozy beverage option. Its spiced flavor resonates perfectly with the cookies’ flavors, enhancing the fall vibe.
• Cheese Platter: A simple cheese platter with mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda can provide a savory balance to the sweet cookies, offering varying textures and tastes.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits complements the richness of the cookies while adding a light, fruity touch to your dessert table.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re ready to enjoy your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can prepare various components in advance, making it easy to whip up a delightful treat whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cookies in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• Avoid leaving them at room temperature overnight due to the fresh fruit filling.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Store individual cookies in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring they’re wrapped tightly.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave for 10-15 seconds for a quick reheat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious cookies:

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan version. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg as a replacement.

How do I store Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, but avoid leaving them at room temperature overnight.

Can I freeze these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! After they cool completely, place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.

What is the best way to reheat Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or microwave them for 10-15 seconds until warm.

What flavors do these cookies have?

These cookies feature warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg combined with sweet apple filling and rich salted caramel sauce, creating a delightful fall flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies! They capture all the warmth and nostalgia of traditional apple pie while being wonderfully portable and easy to share. Whether you’re indulging on a cozy evening or hosting friends, these cookies are sure to impress. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!