Bring the comforting flavor of a classic apple pie into cookie form with these Salted Apple Pie Cookies. Rich browned butter, soft, tender cookie dough, and sweet apple filling come together to create a dessert that’s both nostalgic and delightfully unique. These cookies are perfect for cozy autumn afternoons, holiday gatherings, or anytime you crave a warm, comforting treat that combines buttery richness with fruity sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, tender cookies with rich browned butter flavor
- Sweet apple filling in every bite, reminiscent of homemade apple pie
- Subtle salt enhances the sweetness and balances flavors
- Great for seasonal baking, dessert platters, or gift boxes
- Vegetarian-friendly and easy to make ahead
Ingredients
- Salted butter, browned – Adds nutty, caramelized depth of flavor
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens and contributes to lightly crisp edges
- Brown sugar – Adds moisture and enhances tenderness
- Eggs – Bind the dough and create soft, chewy texture
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping cookies tender
- Cornstarch – Contributes to a soft, delicate crumb
- Baking soda – Lightly leavens cookies for perfect rise
- Baking powder – Ensures soft, tender texture
- Apple pie filling, diced – Sweet, fruity center that mimics classic apple pie
How to Make Salted Apple Pie Cookies
Brown the Butter
Melt the salted butter in a medium skillet over medium heat, stirring continuously until it foams, turns amber, and develops brown bits. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool for 20 minutes. If still warm, refrigerate for 10 minutes to prevent cooking the eggs.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients
Add granulated sugar and brown sugar to the cooled brown butter and mix until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet & Dry
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to meld flavors and maintain cookie thickness.
Preheat & Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop 3-ounce dough balls and place 2 inches apart. Bake for 12 minutes, until edges are golden and centers remain soft.
Fill with Apple Pie
Let the cookies cool slightly. Press the center of each cookie with a small glass to create a well. Fill each well with 1 tablespoon of diced apple filling. Cool completely on a wire rack.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality apple pie filling for the best flavor.
- Chill dough to prevent spreading and maintain thick, soft cookies.
- Adjust baking time for desired softness; slightly underbaked centers stay extra tender.
- Serve warm for the ultimate flavor experience.
Equipment Needed
- Medium skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small glass or utensil to press cookie centers
- Wire cooling rack
Recipe Variations
- Caramel Apple Cookies: Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Spiced Apple Cookies: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg to the dough.
- Mini Apple Pies: Use smaller dough balls for bite-sized treats.
- Apple Cinnamon Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a cup of tea, coffee, or cold milk. Perfect for autumn dessert tables, holiday gatherings, or cozy evenings at home.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, but add a pinch of salt to the dough to balance flavors.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How long will the cookies stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Can I use homemade apple pie filling?
Absolutely—just dice apples and cook with sugar and cinnamon until soft.
Do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling is recommended to maintain thick, soft cookies and enhance flavor.
Salted Apple Pie Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Salted Apple Pie Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional apple pie, combining the rich flavor of browned butter and sweet apple filling into soft, tender cookies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter, browned
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup apple pie filling, diced
Instructions
- Melt salted butter in a medium skillet over medium heat, stirring continuously until browned. Transfer to a large bowl to cool 20 minutes, refrigerate 10 minutes if still warm.
- Whisk flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and baking powder in a separate bowl; set aside.
- Add granulated and brown sugar to cooled brown butter; mix until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
- Wrap dough and refrigerate at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Line baking sheet with parchment. Scoop 3 oz dough balls, 2 inches apart, bake 12 minutes until edges are golden and centers soft.
- Press center of each cookie with a small glass, fill with 1 tablespoon diced apple filling. Cool on wire rack.
- Serve warm with milk or tea.
Notes
- Use high-quality apple pie filling for best flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Adjust baking time for desired cookie softness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts
Salted Apple Pie Cookies capture all the warmth and comfort of traditional apple pie in a soft, buttery cookie. With their rich browned butter flavor and sweet apple centers, they’re a perfect treat for autumn baking, dessert platters, or cozy afternoons. Bake a batch, enjoy the nostalg
