These Mini Apple Pie Cookies combine the warmth of traditional apple pie with the ease of cookies, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth without the fuss of a full pie. With tender, cinnamon-spiced apple filling wrapped in a flaky crust, these bite-sized delights are ideal for fall gatherings, after-dinner treats, or a comforting snack on the go.
Ingredients:
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- Granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool.
- Roll and Cut the Dough:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the refrigerated pie crust to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Using a round cookie cutter (about 2-3 inches in diameter), cut out as many circles as possible.
- Assemble the Cookies:
- Place a teaspoon of apple filling in the center of half of the dough circles.
- Lightly moisten the edges of each circle with water, then top with another dough circle. Press the edges with a fork to seal.
- Egg Wash & Bake:
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg and water together to create an egg wash.
- Brush the tops of the assembled cookies with the egg wash, and sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar.
- Use a knife to cut small slits on the tops for ventilation.
- Bake:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tip: Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!