Imagine biting into a warm, soft cookie that tastes exactly like your favorite apple pie. That’s precisely what these Soft Apple Pie Cookies deliver! As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting flavors of fall baking. And let’s face it, sometimes we crave that apple pie goodness without the fuss of making an entire pie. These cookies are the perfect solution – a quick, easy, and utterly delicious way to satisfy that craving.
I’ve been baking for over 15 years, and apple pie is a perennial favorite in my household. After countless experiments (and happy taste testers!), I’ve perfected this cookie recipe to capture all the warmth and spice of a classic apple pie in a delightfully soft and chewy cookie form. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with tender apple pieces and warm spices, making them irresistible. They are perfect for a cozy afternoon treat, a fall gathering, or even a unique holiday dessert. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these cookies as much as I do!
What makes these cookies extra special is the use of real apple pie spice and a touch of brown sugar for that extra-soft texture. They’re also incredibly easy to make, perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. Plus, they are trending right now – everyone is looking for fun and delicious ways to enjoy apple pie flavors!
Ingredients
Let’s gather everything you need to create these delectable Soft Apple Pie Cookies. Understanding the role of each ingredient will help you customize the recipe and troubleshoot any baking mishaps.
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our cookies. I recommend using unbleached all-purpose flour for the best texture. You can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for gluten-free cookies.
- Baking Soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and creates a soft, chewy texture. Make sure it’s fresh!
- Apple Pie Spice: The heart and soul of these cookies! You can buy a pre-made blend or make your own using cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter (but not melted!) for the perfect cookie texture. Softened butter incorporates air, leading to a tender crumb.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and structure to the cookies.
- Brown Sugar: The secret to our soft, chewy texture. Brown sugar is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and retains moisture.
- Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness. Use a large egg at room temperature.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cookies. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- Apples: Choose a variety that holds its shape well when baked, such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala. Peel, core, and dice them into small pieces.
Ingredient substitutions can be made. For example, coconut oil can replace butter. The type of apple that is used can be substituted as well. Honeycrisp apples are generally a great option because they retain flavor and firmness when baking.
Expert Tips
Here are some tips based on my baking experience to help you achieve cookie perfection.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough.
- Bake on a Parchment-Lined Baking Sheet: This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaked cookies will be dry and crunchy. Bake until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
- Cool on the Baking Sheet: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Add a Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness and flavor, drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Add a dash of apple pie spice to the glaze for extra apple pie flavor.
Based on personal testing, using cold butter creates a flatter cookie. Therefore, softening the butter is essential to keeping the cookie light and fluffy.
Storage & Substitutions
Knowing how to properly store your Soft Apple Pie Cookies and what substitutions you can make will ensure you always have a delicious treat on hand.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute in place of the butter.
- Vegan: Use a dairy-free butter substitute and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) in place of the egg.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the apple pie spice blend for a warmer, more complex flavor.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Soft Apple Pie Cookies.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies can be caused by several factors, including using melted butter instead of softened butter, not chilling the dough, or overmixing the dough. Make sure to use softened butter, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes, and mix until just combined.
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use any type of apple that holds its shape well when baked, such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Gala. Avoid using apples that are too soft, as they will turn to mush during baking.
How do I make my own apple pie spice?
To make your own apple pie spice, combine 4 tablespoons ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon ground allspice, and 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom of the cookies?
Tossing the diced apples with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the dough can help prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cookies.
My cookies are too dry. What did I do wrong?
Dry cookies are usually the result of overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to measure the flour accurately and bake the cookies until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. You can also add a tablespoon of milk or applesauce to the dough to increase moisture.
Can I add nuts to these cookies?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a delicious addition to these cookies. Add about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the dough along with the apples.
These Soft Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, perfect for satisfying your cravings for fall flavors in a convenient and delicious form. With their soft, chewy texture, warm spices, and tender apple pieces, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite. Don’t wait any longer – gather your ingredients and start baking! Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think of the recipe, and share your cookie creations on social media using #SoftApplePieCookies. For more delicious cookie recipes, check out my other posts on Pumpkin Spice Cookies, Gingerbread Cookies, and Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Happy baking!
For more delicious cookie recipes, be sure to check out my recipes for BISCOFF NYC COOKIES and Coconut Ranger Cookies Recipe
