Soft and Fragrant Apple-Filled Cookies Recipe

These Apple-Filled Cookies are a delightful treat that combines a buttery, flaky dough with a warm, spiced apple filling. Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday baking, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, these cookies bring the comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla in every bite. With their soft texture and rich aroma, they are sure to become a family favorite!

What Are Apple-Filled Cookies?

Apple-Filled Cookies are soft, shortbread-like treats that enclose a luscious apple filling. Inspired by classic apple pie flavors, these cookies are a convenient way to enjoy the taste of spiced apples in a handheld form. They are perfect for the fall and winter months but can be enjoyed year-round!

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Soft and buttery texture: A rich, melt-in-your-mouth cookie dough.
• Warm, spiced apple filling: Cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar create a cozy flavor.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for any occasion: Great for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack.

Cooking Tips

• Use cold butter when making the dough for a flakier texture.
• Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to make rolling and shaping easier.
• Cook the apples thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
• Seal the cookies well to prevent the filling from leaking while baking.
• Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Apple?

Yes! Tart apples like Granny Smith work well, but you can also use sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji.

Can I Make These Cookies Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance. Store the dough in the fridge and assemble the cookies before baking.

How Do I Keep my Cookies From Spreading Too Much?

Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain their shape. Also, avoid overloading the filling to prevent leaks.

Can I Add Nuts to The Filling?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans would add a delicious crunch to the apple filling.

Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure it's a 1:1 replacement for best results.

How to Store

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week and warm them slightly before serving.

How to Freeze

Freeze unbaked cookies by assembling them and placing them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, place them directly in the oven without thawing, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

How To Make Them

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and lemon zest, mixing until well incorporated. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a workable dough forms.

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead lightly. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes or until the apples are soft and the liquid has evaporated. Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) thick. Use a round cookie cutter (5-6 cm in diameter) to cut out cookie shapes.

Place half of the dough circles on the prepared baking sheet. Add a teaspoon of apple filling to the center of each dough circle.

Cover with another dough circle and press the edges together to seal.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.