Welcome, baking enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to share my cherished Apple Pie Cookies recipe, a festive delight that brings the cozy warmth of Christmas to your kitchen. This recipe yields about 24 cookies, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups – the foundation of our cookies.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (chilled and cubed) – for a rich, flaky texture.
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup – adds sweetness.
- Brown sugar: ¼ cup – for a deep, caramel-like flavor.
- Cinnamon: 1 tsp – the quintessential holiday spice.
- Nutmeg: ¼ tsp – for a warm, spicy note.
- Salt: ½ tsp – to balance the flavors.
- Egg: 1 large – binds the dough.
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp – enhances overall flavor.
- Apple pie filling: 1 cup – finely chopped for a burst of apple goodness in every bite.
- Egg wash: 1 beaten egg with 1 tbsp water – for a golden finish.
- Optional: Coarse sugar for sprinkling.
Instructions:
- Prepare Dough: Whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugars until fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients to form a dough. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Assemble Cookies: Roll out the dough to ¼ inch thickness. Cut out circles using a cookie cutter. Place half on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon a small amount of apple pie filling onto each. Cover with another dough circle, sealing the edges.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the cookies with egg wash, sprinkle with coarse sugar, and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden.
Secret Tips:
- For a twist, add a pinch of ground ginger to the dough.
- You can also drizzle caramel sauce over the cookies once cooled for an extra indulgent treat.
These Apple Pie Cookies, with their festive aroma of cinnamon and apples, are not just cookies; they’re a bite of Christmas magic. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors and let them transport you to a joyful holiday season. Happy baking! 🍪🎄