Apple Pie Cookies
Category: Desserts
Servings: 12
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 200g |
| Unsalted butter | 100g |
| Cold water | 50g |
| Fine salt | 1 pinch |
| Granny Smith apples | 300g |
| Unsalted butter (for filling) | 60g |
| Granulated sugar | 60g |
| Orange zest | ½ orange |
| Orange juice | 60g |
| Ground cinnamon | ¼ tsp |
| Brown sugar | to taste |
| Butter (for greasing) | as needed |
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry (Pasta Brisée):
- Start by making the shortcrust pastry. In a food processor with a blade attachment, combine the flour and a pinch of fine salt.
- Add the cold water and mix briefly until the dough begins to come together.
- Transfer the dough onto a work surface and knead it gently for a few moments, just until it forms a dough ball.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 40 minutes to rest.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
- While the dough is resting, peel and dice the Granny Smith apples into small cubes.
- In a medium pan, melt the 60g of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced apples to the pan.
- Grate the zest from half an orange and add it to the apples. Stir in the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon (or use cinnamon sticks for an alternative flavor).
- Pour in the freshly squeezed orange juice, making sure to strain it to remove any pulp or seeds.
- Cook the apple mixture over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened but not mushy.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.
3. Assemble the Apple Pie Cookies:
- Take the rested dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick.
- Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles of dough (about 8 cm in diameter) for the cookies.
- Place a spoonful of the cooled apple filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Brush the edges of the dough with a little cold water to help seal them together.
- Place another dough circle on top of each filled cookie, then press the edges firmly to seal, ensuring the filling is enclosed.
4. Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the assembled apple pie cookies on the prepared baking sheet.
- Using a sharp knife, make a few shallow slashes in the center of each cookie to allow steam to escape as they bake.
- Add a small dollop of butter on top of each cookie for an extra golden touch.
- Sprinkle the top of each cookie with brown sugar to give them a beautiful, caramelized finish.
5. Final Touches:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly before serving, or enjoy them warm.
Tips and Variations:
- Flavor Twist: For an added flavor depth, you can sprinkle the cookies with a little cinnamon sugar instead of brown sugar before baking.
- Storage: These apple pie cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They also freeze well—just wrap them tightly before freezing, and they’ll last for up to 2 months.
- Apple Substitution: While Granny Smith apples are perfect for their tartness, feel free to use other apples, such as Honeycrisp or Gala, for a sweeter filling.
These apple pie cookies are a delightful and portable twist on the classic apple pie, offering the same comforting flavors in a fun, easy-to-eat form. Perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or a cozy dessert to enjoy with a cup of tea. Enjoy the sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness in every bite!
