Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies combine the warmth of fresh apples and cinnamon with a luscious salted caramel drizzle for the ultimate festive treat. Perfectly soft and chewy, these delightful cookies bring the classic flavors of apple pie into a handheld dessert that's sure to impress your holiday guests. Easy to bake and even easier to share, they make for a cozy Christmas cookie addition that everyone will love.
This recipe is inspired by the traditional apple pie, with a twist that makes them perfect for sharing during the festive season.
The Perfect Holiday Treat
As the holiday season approaches, it's time to think about delightful treats that can bring the warmth of home into your gatherings. These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not just another dessert; they encapsulate the essence of the holidays in every bite. Their unique combination of seasonal ingredients makes them a standout choice for cookies this festive season.
Imagine soft, chewy cookies infused with fresh, sweet apples and a hint of spicy cinnamon. Topped with a rich salted caramel that adds a touch of luxury, these cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family. They're a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall and winter while creating lasting memories around the table.
Baking Tips for Success
When making these cookies, it's essential to use room-temperature butter for perfect creaming with the sugars. Ensure you beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy, as this brings air into the dough, resulting in a lighter cookie. Additionally, when incorporating the flour mixture, be careful not to over-mix. This helps maintain the desired chewy texture.
Another key element is the type of apples used. For the best flavor, opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This will provide a beautiful balance and enhance the cookie's overall taste. Finally, let your cookies cool slightly before drizzling them with the caramel for a beautiful presentation.
Storage and Make-Ahead Options
These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their chewy texture, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the cookies. They freeze well for up to three months, allowing you to prepare them well in advance of your holiday festivities.
For those looking to save time, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 72 hours. This not only allows for easy baking on a busy day but also improves the flavors as the ingredients meld together. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply indulging at home, these make-ahead tips will help you enjoy your baking without the last-minute stress.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
For the salted caramel drizzle:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually blend this into the wet mixture.
Add Apples
Fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Bake the Cookies
Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Make the Salted Caramel Drizzle
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir until the mixture comes to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Stir in sea salt and allow to cool.
Drizzle and Serve
Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the salted caramel over the top. Enjoy!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
The Comfort of Apple Pie in Every Bite
There's something undeniably comforting about apple pie that makes it a staple during the holiday season. With these cookies, you can enjoy that familiar warm cinnamon and apple flavor in a new and delightful form. Each cookie is like a mini apple pie that fits perfectly in your hand, making it ideal for snacking and sharing at gatherings.
The addition of salted caramel elevates this recipe, creating a sweet and slightly savory contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile. As you bite into one of these cookies, the nostalgic taste of apple pie comes rushing back, coupled with that luxurious caramel finish that will leave everyone wanting more.
Pairing Suggestions
To elevate your cookie experience, consider pairing these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies with a warm beverage. A spiced chai latte or a classic hot chocolate complements the flavors beautifully and adds to the cozy atmosphere of any holiday gathering. For adults, a glass of spiced cider or even an aromatic mulled wine can create a special touch.
If you're serving these cookies at a celebration, consider placing them alongside a fruit platter or a selection of nuts. The mix of textures and flavors not only enhances the taste experience but also creates a visually appealing display that invites guests to indulge. With the right pairings, these cookies become a centerpiece of your holiday treats.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies
These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies combine the warmth of fresh apples and cinnamon with a luscious salted caramel drizzle for the ultimate festive treat. Perfectly soft and chewy, these delightful cookies bring the classic flavors of apple pie into a handheld dessert that's sure to impress your holiday guests. Easy to bake and even easier to share, they make for a cozy Christmas cookie addition that everyone will love.
Created by: Holly James
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples
For the salted caramel drizzle:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually blend this into the wet mixture.
Fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir until the mixture comes to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Stir in sea salt and allow to cool.
Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the salted caramel over the top. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g