Introduction to Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
As a passionate home cook, I find immense joy in creating sweet treats that evoke warmth and nostalgia, and my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is no exception. The moment you bite into one of these delightful cookies, you are greeted with the comforting flavors of spiced apples, buttery crust, and a drizzle of rich salted caramel. It’s a delightful twist on the classic apple pie that transforms a traditional favorite into a handheld indulgence.
These cookies are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of autumn in every bite. Imagine the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen, mingling with hints of cinnamon and brown sugar. Each cookie offers a excellent balance of sweet and salty, making them irresistible to anyone who tries them. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or just treating yourself after a long day, this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is bound to make your moment special.
I’ve made these cookies countless times, and they never fail to impress. They bring back memories of family gatherings, where everyone eagerly anticipates that first bite. The combination of warm apples and creamy caramel is just heavenly, and I can assure you, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into this tasty recipe that beautifully marries the essence of apple pie with the charm of cookies.
Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
As a passionate home cook who has made this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe countless times, I can confidently say that these cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors that will make your taste buds sing. The moment you bite into one, you experience the warm, buttery cookie enveloping a gooey, spiced apple filling, all topped off with a luscious drizzle of salted caramel. It’s like enjoying a slice of apple pie but in a perfectly portable cookie form!
One of the main reasons you’ll love this recipe is its ease and speed. With the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding time to bake can be challenging. However, this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe allows you to whip up a batch of tasty treats in no time. The ingredients are straightforward, and the preparation is simple, making it ideal for busy women who want to enjoy homemade goodies without the fuss.
Moreover, the delightful aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through your kitchen while these cookies bake will make your home feel warm and inviting. Friends and family will gather around, drawn in by the enchanting scent. And let’s not forget the satisfying crunch of the cookie paired with the sticky sweetness of salted caramel-it’s a match made in dessert heaven!
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or just treat yourself after a long day, this recipe hits all the right notes. It’s a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of fall, and who doesn’t love a cozy dessert? Trust me, once you try this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again. Grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
When it comes to baking, the right ingredients can make all the difference, especially in a delightful treat like my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that excellent balance of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring these cookies to life!
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of our cookie dough, providing structure and a light texture. I always recommend using unbleached flour for a richer flavor.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener will give you that classic cookie sweetness. It also helps with browning, so your cookies will have that lovely golden hue.
- Brown sugar: The molasses in brown sugar adds depth and moisture, making your cookies chewier. It’s essential for mimicking the richness of traditional apple pie.
- Unsalted butter: I love using high-quality unsalted butter because it allows me to control the saltiness. It gives the cookies a rich, buttery flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Eggs: These add moisture and richness to the cookies. They also help bind everything together, ensuring a excellent texture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor and complements the caramel and apples beautifully. Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
- Ground cinnamon: This warm spice is key to achieving that classic apple pie flavor. It brings warmth and comfort, making your cookies feel like a hug in dessert form.
- Salt: Just a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness, especially when paired with that luscious salted caramel.
- Fresh apples: I prefer using tart varieties like Granny Smith for a delightful contrast against the sweet caramel. Their texture holds up well in baking, adding a juicy bite.
- Salted caramel sauce: This is the pièce de résistance! You can make your own or buy a high-quality jar. The sweet and salty combination is what truly makes these cookies shine.
- Optional toppings: Consider adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for an extra flavor burst. You can also drizzle more caramel sauce after baking for visual appeal.
Gathering these ingredients for my Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe is an exciting first step. Each one brings its unique character to the cookie, ensuring a delightful experience with every bite. Don’t forget to check your pantry for the essentials and enjoy the process of creating something truly tasty!
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when you pop your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies in, they’ll bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
- Prepare the cookie dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies a tender texture. Add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Mix in the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Add the apple and spices: Fold in 1 cup of diced apples (I love using Granny Smith for their tartness) along with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg. The apples not only add flavor but also a delightful texture that keeps every bite interesting.
- Incorporate the caramel: Gently stir in ½ cup of salted caramel sauce. This is where the magic happens! The caramel will create a rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apples and spices, making these cookies irresistible.
- Scoop the cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoons, drop rounded balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading. I usually aim for about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a little underbaked, but they’ll continue to cook as they cool.
- Drizzle with more caramel: Once the cookies are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer them to a wire rack. While they cool, drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over the top for that extra touch of sweetness.
- Enjoy your creation: After the cookies have cooled completely, gather your family and friends to share these Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies. Trust me, the combination of warm spices, sweet caramel, and tender apples will make them a hit every time!
Tips for Success
When I first started making the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe, I quickly learned that a few key tips can elevate this dessert from good to absolutely irresistible. Here are my top tips for success that I’ve gathered through trial and error:
- Use fresh apples: Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are my go-to choices.
- Chill the dough: After mixing, refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and ensures the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Don’t skip the salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness. It’s a must for the excellent Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe.
- Watch the baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies. They should be golden brown around the edges and soft in the center when you take them out.
- Let them cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly.
- Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Trust me, they’ll still be tasty!
Following these simple tips will help you nail the Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe every time. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Equipment Needed
To create these delightful Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies, having the right equipment on hand makes all the difference. Over the years, I’ve gathered a few essential tools that ensure my baking process is smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: A set of medium and large mixing bowls will help you combine ingredients effortlessly. Glass or stainless steel works beautifully.
- Electric Mixer: While a hand mixer is convenient, a stand mixer can save time and energy for the dough.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking. Make sure you have a set of dry and liquid measuring cups handy.
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy, rimmed baking sheet is essential for baking your cookies evenly.
- Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Cookie Scoop: This tool ensures your cookies are uniform in size, which helps them bake evenly.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, a cooling rack allows your cookies to cool properly, preventing sogginess.
- Paring Knife: You’ll use this for slicing apples thinly, ensuring they integrate well into your cookie dough.
- Caramel Sauce Dispenser: A squeeze bottle or a spoon for drizzling the salted caramel on top of your cookies adds that finishing touch.
Having these tools ready will set you up for success when making your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe. With each piece of equipment, you’ll find the process more enjoyable and the results even more satisfying.
Variations
- Change up the apples: While I adore using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, feel free to experiment with different varieties. Honeycrisps or Fuji apples bring a sweeter profile, perfectly complementing the salted caramel in this Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe.
- Add spices: For a warm, comforting twist, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough. These spices not only enhance the flavor but also create an aromatic experience that fills your kitchen as the cookies bake.
- Try different toppings: While the salted caramel drizzle is divine, you can also top these cookies with a sprinkle of crushed pecans or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor. Alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of sweetness.
- Make them gluten-free: If you or someone you know is gluten-sensitive, just substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. This Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe can still be a delightful treat without compromising taste or texture.
- Incorporate chocolate: For a richer flavor, fold in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the dough. The combination of chocolate and salted caramel will take these cookies to another level of indulgence.
- Use alternative sweeteners: If you’re looking to reduce sugar, try using coconut sugar or even maple syrup instead of brown sugar. This will give your Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe a unique flavor while keeping them deliciously sweet.
- Make mini cookies: For bite-sized treats, you can scoop smaller portions of dough and bake them as mini cookies. These are excellent for serving at gatherings or for an easy snack that won’t feel overwhelming.
- Freeze for later: You can make a double batch of these cookies and freeze half of the dough for future cravings. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready for a fresh-baked cookie, just bake from frozen!

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cookies Recipe You’ll Love!
Delightfully chewy cookies filled with warm spiced apples and drizzled with rich salted caramel, perfect for any dessert lover.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups diced apples (peeled and cored)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture, and beat until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, drizzle the cookies with caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt before serving.
Notes
- For an extra touch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Feel free to use store-bought caramel sauce or make your own for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg