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Apple Pie Cookies – Easy Gooey Caramel Filled Treats

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These apple pie cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of classic apple pie with a soft, chewy cookie and a gooey caramel center. Perfect for cozy gatherings, lunchboxes, or whenever you crave a comforting, handheld treat.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup peeled, finely diced Granny Smith apple (about 1 medium apple)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for apple filling)
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar (for apple filling)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for apple filling)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 16 soft caramel candies (such as Werther’s Original or Kraft caramels), unwrapped
  • Coarse sugar or cinnamon sugar (optional, for topping)
  • Extra caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add diced apple, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until apples are tender and juices are syrupy. Remove from heat and cool.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
  5. Mix in egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
  6. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Fold in cooled apple mixture gently.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  9. Portion out 16 balls of dough (about 2 tablespoons each). Flatten each ball, press a caramel candy into the center, and wrap dough around caramel, sealing edges.
  10. Arrange cookies 2 inches apart on baking sheet. Sprinkle tops with coarse sugar or cinnamon sugar if desired.
  11. Bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are golden and centers are just set.
  12. Let cookies cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling. Allow at least 10 minutes before tasting.
  13. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For gluten-free, use a 1:1 GF flour blend. Chill dough for 20 minutes if too soft. Seal caramel well to prevent leaks. Use tart apples for best flavor. Cookies are best served warm but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave for gooey centers.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple pie cookies, caramel filled cookies, easy apple dessert, fall cookies, handheld apple pie, kid friendly cookies, cozy baking, caramel apple cookies

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