Apple Basket Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 4-5 medium apples, peeled and grated
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp cinnamon

For the Dough:

• 1 egg
• 100 g (½ cup) sugar
• 100 g (½ cup) sour cream
• 250 g (2 cups) flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (or 1 packet of vanillin)
• 100 g (½ cup) cold butter, cubed

For Topping:

• 50 g (⅓ cup) chopped walnuts

Instructions

Preparing the Filling:

1. Peel and grate the apples using a coarse grater.
2. In a pan, melt the butter, then add the grated apples.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-10 minutes until the liquid evaporates and the filling thickens.
4. Add sugar and cinnamon to taste, if desired.
5. Transfer the filling to a bowl and let it cool completely.

Making the Dough:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the egg, sugar, and sour cream until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla.
3. Add the cold butter to the flour mixture, rubbing it with your fingers until crumbly.
4. Create a well in the center of the mixture and pour in the egg-sour cream blend. Gently mix until a dough forms.
5. Refrigerate the dough for 15 minutes.

Assembling the Cookies:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Roll out the chilled dough to about 4-5 mm (⅛ inch) thickness.
3. Use an 8 cm (3-inch) cutter to make dough circles.
4. Grease muffin tins and press the dough circles into the tins, forming small baskets.
5. Fill each basket with the cooled apple filling and sprinkle chopped walnuts on top.

Baking:

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the baskets are golden and fragrant.
2. Allow the cookies to cool completely before removing them from the tins.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with warm tea or coffee.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Perfect for a holiday or autumn-themed dessert table.

Cooking Tips

• If your apples are naturally sweet, reduce or omit the sugar in the filling.
• Chill the dough before rolling for easier handling.
• Silicone or ceramic molds can also be used for baking.

Nutritional Benefits

• Apples provide fiber and antioxidants, making these cookies a healthier option.
• Walnuts add healthy fats and protein for an added nutritional boost.

Dietary Information

Vegetarian. Contains dairy, eggs, gluten, and nuts.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 3 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Sugar: 8 g

Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Unbaked dough can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw, roll, and bake when ready.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The crumbly dough pairs perfectly with the juicy apple filling.
• Versatile recipe: swap apples for pears or berries.
• A delightful fall treat, ideal for making use of seasonal apples.
• Easy to make with pantry staples.

Conclusion

These Apple Basket Cookies are a must-try for the fall season. With a buttery crust and spiced apple filling, they offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed with a warm drink, they’re sure to impress. The walnut topping adds a satisfying crunch, making these cookies even more special. Enjoy baking and sharing this tasty treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Yes, pears or berries work well.
• Can I prepare the dough ahead of time? Yes, refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Can I substitute margarine for butter? Yes, but the flavor will slightly differ.
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
• How do I prevent the dough from sticking? Lightly flour the surface and rolling pin.
• Can I freeze the baked cookies? Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
• What if my filling is too runny? Simmer longer to evaporate excess liquid.
• Do I need to peel the apples? It’s recommended, but optional for texture preference.
• Can I add raisins or dried fruits to the filling? Yes, raisins or cranberries add extra flavor.
• How can I make the dough easier to handle? Ensure the butter is cold and chill the dough before rolling.