Indulge in Fall Bliss: Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe

Nothing quite captures the essence of fall like the sweet aroma of freshly baked apple pie wafting through the air. Now, imagine that comforting flavor transformed into bite-sized delights—introducing Caramel Apple Pie Cookies! These little treats are a delightful fusion of classic apple pie and irresistible cookies, perfect for satisfying your autumn cravings. 

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough:

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 1 cup granulated sugar

- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

- 2 large eggs

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon baking soda

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Apple Filling:

- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

- Pinch of salt

For the Caramel Drizzle:

- 1/2 cup store-bought caramel sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:

   - In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

   - Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then add the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

   - In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.

   - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Apple Filling:

   - In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.

   - Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.

3. Assemble the Cookies:

   - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

   - Roll out the chilled cookie dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out rounds of dough.

   - Place the dough rounds on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.

   - Spoon a small amount of the cooled apple filling onto the center of each cookie round.

   - Fold the edges of the dough up and over the apple filling, creating a little pocket. Gently press the edges to seal.

   - Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

4. Drizzle with Caramel:

   - Once the cookies are cooled slightly, drizzle them with caramel sauce using a spoon or piping bag.

   - Allow the caramel to set before serving.

5. Enjoy!

   - Serve these delectable Caramel Apple Pie Cookies as a delightful dessert or snack. They're perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cider or coffee on a crisp fall day.

Caramel Apple Pie Cookies

These Caramel Apple Pie Cookies are sure to become a favorite autumn treat among family and friends. With their buttery cookie crust, luscious apple filling, and decadent caramel drizzle, they encapsulate all the flavors of the season in every bite. So, grab your apron and get ready to bake up some cozy fall bliss!