Homemade Mini Apple Pie Cookies

Background:

These Homemade Mini Apple Pie Cookies provide a delightful blend of sweet apples and warm cinnamon encased in a flaky pie crust. They are perfect for snacking or serving as a lovely dessert at any occasion.

Ingredients:

For Pie Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water

For Apple Filling:

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling

Instructions:

For Pie Crust:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter cubes and mix with a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
3. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

For Mini Apple Pie Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the chopped apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut out circles. Place a small spoonful of the apple mixture onto the center of half of the circles, leaving a border.
5. Top each filled circle with another circle of dough. Use a fork to crimp the edges together, sealing the cookies.
6. Brush the tops of the cookies with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a nice finish.
7. Make slits on the tops of the cookies to allow steam to escape during baking.
8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
9. Allow the mini apple pie cookies to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Flavor Profile:

These Homemade Mini Apple Pie Cookies offer a delightful combination of tender apples, sweet cinnamon, and buttery flaky crust. The absence of nutmeg does not take away from the deliciousness of these bite-sized treats. They are perfect for indulging in a taste of apple pie on the go! Enjoy these cookies alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and comforting treat.