Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that embodies the flavors of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not just cookies; they are little bites of nostalgia, bringing together the warm spices of apple pie and the rich sweetness of caramel. Every time I bake these, I’m reminded of family gatherings and crisp autumn days spent picking apples. They are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on a busy weeknight when you just need a little something special.

What makes this recipe even more delightful is how versatile it is. Whether it’s a casual get-together, a holiday feast, or simply a sweet indulgence for yourself, these cookies fit the bill beautifully. Plus, they are easy enough to whip up even if you’re short on time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Cozy: These cookies capture all the comforting flavors of apple pie in a fun, portable form.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love helping with these cookies—scooping dough and drizzling caramel is always a hit!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, making baking day smooth sailing.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an afternoon snack or after-dinner dessert, they’re sure to impress.
• Customizable Delight: Change up the spices or toppings to match your taste preferences or ingredient availability.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are simple and wholesome. You likely have many of them in your pantry already! Let’s gather what we need:

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)
• 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 ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the apples: Use pears or peaches instead for a different fruity twist in your filling.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with pumpkin spice or cardamom instead of traditional fall spices for a unique flavor profile.
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch to both the filling and topping.
• Try different toppings: Instead of salted caramel sauce, drizzle with chocolate syrup or honey for a new take!

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until it’s light and fluffy. Add in both sugars and mix until well combined—this step is crucial as it helps create that soft cookie texture we all adore. Next, mix in the vanilla extract and eggs just until combined. Finally, add your dry ingredients last; this ensures everything comes together smoothly without overmixing. Chill this dough for about 30 minutes—this makes it easier to scoop later!

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

While your dough chills, let’s prepare that delicious apple filling! Start by peeling and dicing your apples into bite-sized chunks. Combine them with all other filling ingredients in a medium pan over medium-high heat. Cook for about 15-18 minutes while stirring occasionally until they’re tender but not mushy. Once done, transfer them to a bowl to cool—this can be done at room temperature or in the fridge if you like!

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

Now onto one of my favorite parts—the caramel! Using my easy salted caramel sauce recipe will give you rich flavor without any fuss. Simply cook sugar in a saucepan until melted before adding butter and cream; let it thicken at room temperature for about 20 minutes. It’s okay if it takes some time—good things come to those who wait!

Step 4: Scoop & Chill the Dough

Once your dough has chilled, scoop out balls about 65 grams each using a large cookie scoop. Place them in an airtight container to chill again—in either the fridge for at least four hours or in the freezer for two hours. This second chilling helps maintain their shape while baking.

Step 5: Make the Crumble

While your dough chills once more, let’s whip up that irresistible crumble topping! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt some butter in a mixing bowl before stirring in all remaining crumble ingredients until crumbly. Spread this mixture on a parchment-lined pan and bake until deep golden brown—about 12-14 minutes.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven again; this time to 365°F (185°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. In a small bowl, combine sugar with spices for coating and roll those chilled dough balls in it! Place six cookies per sheet so they have plenty of room to spread as they bake for about 10-12 minutes.

Step 7: Assemble Cookies

After letting them cool slightly on wire racks, gently press an indent into each cookie’s center using a tablespoon’s back. Spoon that luscious apple pie filling into each indentation, sprinkle generously with crumble topping, then finish off by drizzling with salted caramel sauce.

Step 8: Serve & Store

Enjoy these delightful treats right away! If you have leftovers—which is rare—store them in an airtight container in your fridge for about four to five days maximum due to fresh fruit.

I hope you enjoy making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies as much as I do! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

Baking is a delightful journey, and with a few handy tips, you can create these cookies like a pro!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your butter and eggs are at room temperature leads to better incorporation and a smoother dough, resulting in perfectly tender cookies.

• Don’t skip the chilling time: Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to handle but also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. This means less spreading and more defined cookie edges!

• Taste as you go: When making the apple filling, taste it after 15 minutes of cooking. Adjust the spices or sweetness according to your preference to ensure it’s just right before assembling your cookies.

• Keep an eye on the crumble: The crumble should be golden brown but not burnt. Stirring occasionally while baking can help achieve an even color and texture.

• Drizzle generously: When adding the salted caramel sauce, don’t be shy! A generous drizzle adds flavor and makes your cookies look irresistible. Plus, who doesn’t love that sweet, salty goodness?

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts: A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds crunch and enhances the nutty flavors of the spices used in the cookies.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top gives a creamy contrast to the warm apple filling and caramel drizzles.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside these cookies creates a delightful warm-and-cold experience that pairs beautifully with the spiced apple filling.
• Hot cider: Serve with a warm cup of spiced apple cider for a comforting fall-inspired treat that complements the flavors of your cookies.
• Cheese platter: Pairing these cookies with a selection of cheeses can elevate your dessert experience, providing savory notes that balance out the sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad will lighten up the meal and add some freshness to each bite of cookie indulgence.

Enjoy these delightful treats, whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or savoring them at home with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
• For best results, keep the salted caramel sauce separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure they’re completely cool before wrapping tightly.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen baked cookies, let them thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly for about 10-15 seconds.
• If reheating from frozen dough, bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to your baking time.

FAQs

Have questions about these delightful treats? Here are some answers!

How do I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Making these cookies involves creating a spiced cookie dough, preparing a flavorful apple filling, and drizzling with homemade salted caramel. Follow the full recipe carefully for best results!

Can I use different types of apples in Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite apple varieties. Granny Smith apples add tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples bring sweetness—experiment for your perfect flavor!

How long do Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, these cookies will last about 4-5 days. Be sure to keep them in an airtight container!

Can I make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The salted caramel sauce can be made ahead and stored in a jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. It’s a great way to save time when preparing your cookies.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies! They are truly special—combining the warm flavors of fall with the comforting nature of cookies. Whether it’s a treat for yourself or shared with loved ones, I know you’ll love every bite. Happy baking!