Name: Apple Pie Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups peeled and finely diced apples (about 1 medium apple); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

These Apple Pie Cookies are soft and chewy, bursting with warm cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery crust flavor that captures all the cozy goodness of classic apple pie in every bite. I love how they bring the comforting taste of fall into a handheld treat perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups peeled and finely diced apples (about 1 medium apple)

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Directions

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

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

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

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

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using) carefully.

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. The prep time is approximately 20 minutes, the cooking time is 12 minutes, and the total time from start to finish is around 32 minutes. These cookies are perfect for a quick bake when I want something cozy but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Variations

I like to switch things up by adding chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a little extra chew and sweetness. For a nut-free version, I simply leave out the walnuts or pecans. If I want a bit more spice, I sometimes add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the dry ingredients for a deeper fall flavor.

Storage/reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they stay soft and delicious for up to 4 days. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze them in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, I pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm the apples and soften the cookie again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Yes, I recommend using a firm apple like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These varieties hold their shape well and add a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

Do I need to peel the apples?

I prefer peeling the apples for a softer texture in the cookies, but you can leave the peel on if you like a bit more texture and added nutrients.

Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh?

You can, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before folding into the dough to avoid excess moisture that could affect baking.

How can I make these cookies dairy-free?

I replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil and ensure any nuts or other add-ins are also dairy-free.

Conclusion

These Apple Pie Cookies are one of my favorite treats to bake when I want to enjoy the flavors of fall in a cozy, handheld form. They’re quick to make, endlessly adaptable, and always bring a smile to my face (and anyone I share them with). Whether for a holiday gathering or just a comforting snack, these cookies never disappoint.