Mini Apple Pie Cookie Cups

Mini Apple Pie Cookie Cups combine the irresistible flavor of apple pie with the convenience of bite-sized cookie cups. These delightful treats are perfect for parties, dessert tables, or a cozy fall indulgence. Easy to make and full of warm, spiced apple goodness, they’re guaranteed to impress!

Ingredients:

For the Cookie Cups:

• 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated sugar cookie dough (or homemade sugar cookie dough)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
• Caramel sauce
• Powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cookie Cups:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spray a mini muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray.
• Roll the cookie dough into small balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter). If using refrigerated dough, let it soften slightly to make rolling easier.
• Place each ball into a mini muffin cup, then use your thumb or the back of a spoon to press down and create a small well in the center of each ball.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are puffed.

2. Shape the Cookie Cups:

• As soon as the cookie cups come out of the oven, use a spoon or a small round object (like the bottom of a shot glass) to press down the centers again, creating a defined cup shape.
• Allow the cookie cups to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then gently remove them and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

3. Prepare the Apple Filling:

• In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
• Cook the apples for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re softened and caramelized.
• If you prefer a thicker filling, mix 1 tsp of cornstarch with 2 tsp of water, then add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
• Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

4. Assemble the Cookie Cups:

• Spoon the apple filling into the cooled cookie cups, filling each one generously.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• For an extra indulgent touch, top each cookie cup with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with powdered sugar for added sweetness.
• Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Tips:

• For a twist, try using spiced cookie dough, like gingerbread or snickerdoodle, as the base.
• Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling for a crunchy texture.
• These cookie cups are also great with a drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate.

Mini Apple Pie Cookie Cups are a delightful way to enjoy the cozy flavors of apple pie in a convenient, handheld treat. Perfect for the holidays or any day!