Apple Crisp Cookie Cups

Why Make This Recipe

Apple Crisp Cookie Cups are a delightful treat that combine the comforting flavors of apple pie with the fun of cookies. They are perfect for dessert gatherings, cozy nights in, or whenever you have a craving for something sweet. These little cups are easy to make and packed with delicious apple filling, making them a hit for both kids and adults. Plus, they are a great way to use fresh apples!

How to Make Apple Crisp Cookie Cups

Ingredients

  • 6 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • pinch ground nutmeg
  • pinch salt
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 Tbsp water

Directions

  1. To make the apple pie filling, toss the chopped apples with lemon juice in a medium bowl and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine light brown sugar, granulated sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and water. Cook over medium heat until boiling, then cook for 2 minutes.
  3. Add the apples and bring back to a boil. Simmer until the apples are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Let the mixture cool completely.
  4. For the oatmeal cookie cups, whisk together flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and sea salt in a medium bowl.
  5. In an electric mixer, beat together unsalted butter and the sugars on medium-high until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  6. Add the eggs one at a time, fully mixing each one in before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
  7. Gradually add the flour mixture until just combined. Then fold in the rolled oats.
  8. Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray muffin tins with cooking spray.
  9. Use a large cookie scoop to portion the dough into the tins, pressing down and pushing up the sides to create cups.
  10. Bake for about 15 minutes or until they are browned and set.
  11. Remove from the oven and press down the center with a small jar to create a well.
  12. Let them cool in the pans for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  13. Once cooled, fill each cookie cup with apple pie filling and drizzle with sugar glaze if desired.

How to Serve Apple Crisp Cookie Cups

Apple Crisp Cookie Cups are best served fresh. You can enjoy them plain or add a scoop of ice cream on top for an even sweeter treat. They can also be dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with caramel sauce for extra flavor.

How to Store Apple Crisp Cookie Cups

To store Apple Crisp Cookie Cups, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.

Tips to Make Apple Crisp Cookie Cups

  • Make sure to use Granny Smith apples for the best flavor and texture.
  • Allow the apple filling to cool completely before adding it to the cookie cups.
  • You can adjust the spices to your liking; adding more cinnamon or a dash of allspice can enhance the flavor.
  • If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can be used as a substitute.

Variation

For a twist, you can add nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for added crunch. You can also swap out the Granny Smith apples for other types like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, feel free to use any type of apple you prefer. Honeycrisp and Fuji apples are also great for this recipe.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the apple filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the cookie cups.

What can I use instead of butter?
You can substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative or margarine if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.