Apple Pie Cookies with Caramel and Spiced Topping Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the warm, nostalgic flavors of a classic autumn dessert in a fun, bite-sized treat, then this Apple Pie Cookies with Caramel and Spiced Topping Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. These delightful little cookies marry the sweet, tender apple pie filling with a buttery lattice crust, all kissed by a luscious caramel layer and topped with cozy cinnamon and nutmeg. Every bite bursts with that perfect combination of gooey, crisp, and spiced flavors, guaranteed to bring smiles and maybe even a few happy “mmm” sounds around your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Apple Pie Cookies with Caramel and Spiced Topping Recipe lies in a handful of simple, familiar ingredients that each play a starring role. From the buttery pie crust that crisps to golden perfection to the warm spices that evoke all the comfort of homemade apple pie, every component works together like a dream.

• 21 ounces apple pie filling: Chopped fruit packed with cinnamon-spiced sweetness to provide that classic pie flavor in a convenient form.
• 1 package refrigerated pie crust (2 rolls in box): Flaky, buttery dough makes the perfect base and lattice topping without any fuss.
• 1/3 cup caramel sauce: Adds a rich, buttery sweetness that melds beautifully with the apples.
• 1 egg (beaten): Acts as a glue and gives the crust a shiny, golden finish.
• 1 teaspoon milk: Helps thin the egg wash for easy brushing.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and crunch when combined with spices on top.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Essential warm spice that sings perfectly with apples.
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle hint of earthiness that rounds out the flavors.

How to Make Apple Pie Cookies with Caramel and Spiced Topping Recipe

Step 1: Thaw and Prepare Your Pie Crust

First things first, let your refrigerated pie crust thaw according to the package directions. This step is important because trying to work with frozen or overly warm dough can lead to tearing or sticky messes. Once thawed, you’ll be ready to roll out the crust for the cookie bases.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 12-inch pizza pan or a sturdy cutting board with parchment paper. This creates a non-stick surface for baking your delicate cookies and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Roll Out the First Pie Crust

Unroll one of the pie crusts onto your prepared pan. Lightly roll out the edges, flattening them just to smooth and slightly enlarge the dough. This piece will serve as the foundation for your apple pie filling and caramel layer.

Step 4: Spread the Caramel

Gently spoon and spread the caramel sauce evenly over the surface of the pie crust. This luscious layer brings that signature sticky-sweet flavor that perfectly complements the apples and crust.

Step 5: Add the Apple Pie Filling

Next, evenly distribute your chopped apple pie filling over the caramel. Be generous—the filling is the star of the show, packed with juicy apples and warm spices that make these cookies feel like a tiny slice of fall happiness.

Step 6: Roll Out the Second Pie Crust

Place your remaining pie crust on a cutting board and lightly roll it out to the same size as the first. This dough will be cut into strips to form a beautiful lattice topping for your cookies.

Step 7: Create the Lattice Crust

Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the second crust into ¼-inch wide strips. Carefully weave the strips in a lattice pattern over the apple filling, recreating that classic pie look and adding a wonderful crisp texture once baked.

Step 8: Cut Out the Cookies

Take a 2 ½ inch round cookie cutter and press down through the dough, cutting individual cookies. Remove any excess dough, then gently separate the cookies so they have a little room to bake without sticking together.

Step 9: Apply Egg Wash

Beat the egg with the milk and brush the mixture over the tops of the cookies. This step helps create a gorgeous golden-brown, slightly glossy finish that makes the cookies even more inviting.

Step 10: Sprinkle the Spiced Sugar Topping

Mix together the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Generously sprinkle this fragrant blend all over the tops of the cookies, adding both sparkle and a final pop of those fall-inspired flavors.

Step 11: Bake to Perfection

Pop the cookies into your preheated oven and bake for 24 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the dough is cooked through, the lattice is crisp and golden, and the enticing aroma fills your kitchen.

Step 12: Cool Your Cookies

Let the cookies cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This rest time helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle without breaking.

Step 13: Optional Caramel Drizzle

If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle a little more caramel sauce over the cooled cookies just before serving. Trust me, this little touch amps up the gooey, irresistible factor.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cookies with Caramel and Spiced Topping Recipe

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or add a few fresh apple slices or chopped nuts around your serving plate. These garnishes add a lovely visual contrast and a hint of crunch that makes your Apple Pie Cookies with Caramel and Spiced Topping Recipe even more delightful.

Side Dishes

These cookies are a treat all on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes your dessert game to another level. For an adult twist, a warm mug of spiced apple cider or chai tea complements the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies in a rustic wooden box or arranging them on a tiered dessert stand for gatherings and parties. Wrapping a few in parchment paper tied with twine makes for charming edible gifts that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store your Apple Pie Cookies with Caramel and Spiced Topping Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to 3 days—perfect for enjoying throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. When you want a tasty treat, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly to bring back that fresh-baked delight.

Reheating

To revive the freshly baked texture, warm the cookies in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes. This melts the caramel slightly and crisps up the crust again, making them taste like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use homemade apple pie filling instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade apple pie filling adds a personal touch and lets you customize the spices and sweetness exactly to your liking. Just be sure the filling isn’t too watery to avoid soggy dough.

What can I substitute for refrigerated pie crust?

If you prefer, you can make your own pie dough from scratch or use puff pastry sheets for an extra flaky texture. Just keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by using a gluten-free pie crust available in many stores or homemade gluten-free dough, you can enjoy these cookies without gluten. Just watch the dough carefully as it may bake a bit faster or slower.

Is it necessary to add the caramel sauce?

The caramel sauce adds beautiful sweetness and moisture, but if you’re avoiding extra sugar, you can skip it or substitute with a thin layer of apple butter for a different but delicious flavor.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these apple pie cookies stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. Beyond that, refrigeration or freezing will help preserve freshness longer.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Apple Pie Cookies with Caramel and Spiced Topping Recipe enough if you love the cozy, sweet flavors of fall desserts but want something quick and adorable to share with friends and family. They’re incredibly simple to make, pack a punch of classic flavor, and impress everyone who tries them. So grab that pie crust, caramel sauce, and apple pie filling, and let’s get baking! You deserve all the deliciousness these cookies bring.

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