Apple Pie Cookie Cups

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of warm apples, cinnamon, and a buttery crust, and this recipe brings that nostalgic flavor into a fun, bite-sized treat. Apple Pie Cookie Cups are a delightful twist on traditional apple pie, perfect for when you want to indulge in the classic flavors without the fuss of a full pie. These little cups are filled with tender spiced apples and baked inside a soft, chewy cookie crust that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a party, a cozy family gathering, or just craving a sweet treat, these cookie cups will quickly become a favorite.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Apple Pie Cookie Cups combine the best of two beloved desserts: apple pie and cookies. The result is a unique, handheld dessert that’s packed with flavor and texture. Unlike a traditional pie, these cookie cups are easier to make, portion, and serve, making them great for any occasion. Plus, they bring a warm, inviting aroma to your kitchen that will have everyone excited to dig in. The recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, and the step-by-step process is straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner bakers. The balance of sweet, tart apples and the cinnamon-spiced cookie crust is perfection. Once you try these, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made apple pie this way all along!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 medium apple (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup or honey (as a natural sweetener alternative)
• Optional: caramel sauce or whipped cream for serving

How To Make Apple Pie Cookie Cups

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and corn syrup or honey. This mixture adds sweetness and spice while preventing the apples from browning. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookie Cups

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners. Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and press it evenly into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup to form a cup shape. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the apple filling into each cookie dough cup.

Step 4: Bake

Bake the cookie cups for 18-22 minutes, or until the cookie crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid overbaking.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookie cups to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally drizzled with caramel sauce or topped with whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

Expert Tips

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji for the best texture—softer apples can turn mushy during baking.
• Don’t overfill the cookie cups; leaving a little space helps prevent overflow and ensures even baking.
• Chilling the cookie dough for 15 minutes before shaping can make it easier to handle.
• Make sure to grease your muffin tin well or use liners to prevent sticking.
• For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the filling before baking.
• If you prefer a softer crust, reduce baking time by a few minutes, but watch carefully to avoid undercooking.

Variations and Customizations

• Caramel Apple Cookie Cups: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce inside the cookie cup before adding the apple filling for a rich, gooey surprise.
• Spiced Apple and Cranberry: Mix fresh or dried cranberries into the apple filling for a tart contrast and festive touch.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend suitable for cookies.
• Vegan Version: Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) instead of a chicken egg.
• Mini Apple Pie Cookie Cups: Use a mini muffin tin to make bite-sized versions perfect for parties or snacks.
• Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar on top of each cookie cup before baking for a sweet, crunchy finish.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Apple Pie Cookie Cups fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving refrigerated cups, warm them briefly in the microwave or oven to bring back that freshly baked taste. You can also freeze the cookie cups by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm before serving.

FAQ

Can I use frozen apples for the filling?

Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing with the spices to prevent soggy cookie cups.

Can I make these Apple Pie Cookie Cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and apple filling separately and store them in the fridge. Assemble and bake the cookie cups right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have corn syrup or honey?

You can substitute corn syrup or honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or even additional brown sugar. This will still provide the sweetness and help the apple filling to caramelize nicely.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, doubling the recipe works well—just make sure to adjust your baking pans accordingly and keep an eye on the baking time since larger batches may take a bit longer to bake evenly.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Cookie Cups are a delightful way to enjoy the beloved flavors of apple pie with the ease and fun of a cookie. Their combination of tender spiced apples wrapped in a soft, cinnamon-kissed cookie crust makes for a comforting treat that’s perfect any time of year. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or a cozy night in, these cookie cups are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these little bites of joy quickly and confidently. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find your new favorite dessert!