The Ultimate Fudgy Apple Pie Deep Dish Skillet Cookie (Pizookie)
Prepare to have your dessert world rocked. This isn’t just a cookie, and it’s certainly more than just a pie. We’ve taken the beloved flavors of a classic apple pie and masterfully stuffed them into a rich, fudgy deep dish skillet cookie. Imagine the warm, spiced apple filling nestled within a soft, chewy cookie dough, all baked to perfection in a single skillet. It’s a dessert mashup that creates an experience so utterly delicious, it’s hard to believe until you try it. This recipe takes inspiration from our famous Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie, adapting its glorious fudginess to embrace the comforting taste of apple pie. Get ready for a dessert that will undoubtedly become a new family favorite!
The concept itself is revolutionary – why choose between a warm, spiced apple pie and a decadent, gooey cookie when you can have both? This “Pizookie” (pie + cookie) offers the best of both worlds, delivering a dessert that’s comforting, deeply satisfying, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Each bite is an exquisite blend of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a rich, buttery cookie base, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
Achieving That Unforgettable Fudgy Texture
The journey to perfecting this skillet cookie was all about one thing: achieving that ultimate fudgy texture. After two dedicated attempts and several crucial tweaks to the recipe, I finally nailed it. The result is a cookie base that is not just soft, but intensely fudgy, melting in your mouth with every spoonful. This isn’t your average thin and crispy cookie; it’s thick, dense, and boasts an incredible chewiness that perfectly cradles the warm apple pie filling. The secret lies in a precise balance of ingredients and baking time, ensuring the center remains moist and gooey while the edges are just set enough to hold their shape. This fudginess is what truly elevates this dessert, making it an irresistible treat that stands apart from typical cookie recipes.
The Secret Weapon: Salted Caramel Apple Topping
To truly serve this incredible cookie pie, I couldn’t resist going one step further – as is my custom! I “accidentally” created the most divine Salted Caramel Apple Sauce. This isn’t just any caramel sauce; it’s infused with warm, sweet, softened apple slices, creating a topping that completes the entire apple pie loving feeling. While technically optional, I strongly encourage you not to skip this step. Those extra 10 minutes spent simmering butter, brown sugar, a pinch of salt, and a fresh apple will transform your skillet cookie into an extraordinary dessert experience. The sweet-salty notes of the caramel, combined with the tender apple pieces, perfectly cut through the richness of the fudgy cookie, adding another layer of complex flavor and delightful texture.
Imagine spooning this warm, glistening salted caramel apple sauce over a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream atop your deep dish cookie slice. It’s a moment of pure bliss. This topping isn’t just an addition; it’s an enhancement, bringing a gourmet touch to an already fantastic homemade dessert. It’s the kind of indulgence that makes you close your eyes and savor every single mouthful. Truly, holy mother of all things caramel!
Easier Than Pie, More Satisfying Than a Cookie
Believe it or not, this apple pie skillet cookie is remarkably easy to make. Forget the complexities of traditional pie crusts, rolling dough, and intricate lattice work. This recipe streamlines the process, delivering all the comforting flavors of apple pie with the simplicity of a cookie. It’s fudgy and dense, just like your favorite cookie dough, but with the added warmth and spice of a homemade apple filling. The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal dessert for both seasoned bakers and those new to the kitchen. You’ll spend less time fussing and more time enjoying the incredible aroma filling your home.
Once this beauty emerges from the oven, golden brown and bubbling, you’ll understand its magnetic appeal. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen, eager for a slice. Be prepared to fight for a spot at the table to share this culinary marvel. It’s truly crazy how irresistible it is! The combination of the rich cookie and the sweet apple pie filling creates a dessert that’s hearty yet delicate, making it perfect for sharing, or secretly hoarding (we won’t tell!).
A Sensual Experience for Your Taste Buds
This is more than just a dessert; it’s a truly sensual experience. The texture, the warmth, the perfect blend of sweet and spiced flavors – it all comes together to create what might just be the most satisfying skillet cookie I have ever baked, eaten, or even dreamed of. And trust me, I’ve tried a few. The way the tender apple filling contrasts with the dense, buttery cookie dough is simply divine. It’s a comforting hug in dessert form, perfect for a cozy evening or a celebratory gathering.
Do yourselves a favor and try this recipe. Seriously, your taste buds will thank you. It’s an unforgettable dessert that combines comfort and indulgence in every single bite. Pair a warm slice with a generous scoop of your favorite ice cream, and prepare for a moment of pure culinary bliss. The cold, creamy ice cream melting into the warm, fudgy cookie and spiced apples is a classic combination that never disappoints, but with this elevated skillet cookie, it becomes something truly spectacular.
Top your warm slice with some good old-fashioned vanilla bean ice cream for the ultimate treat. The contrasting temperatures and textures create a magical experience. But don’t stop there! Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of extra cinnamon, or even a handful of toasted pecans for an added layer of crunch. This versatile dessert is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a festive holiday gathering. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ready to Bake? Here’s the Full Recipe!
Below, you’ll find the complete, detailed recipe to recreate this magnificent Apple Pie Deep Dish Skillet Cookie in your own kitchen. We’ve broken down each step, from preparing the luscious apple pie filling to crafting the perfect fudgy cookie dough, and of course, those irresistible optional toppings. Follow these instructions carefully, and you’ll be enjoying a slice of this heavenly dessert in no time.
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Apple Pie Deep Dish Skillet Cookie
Karina
25 minutes
35 minutes
1 hour
16
slices
Ingredients
Apple Pie Filling:
- 2 medium red apples cored and finely diced
- 1 tablespoon butter option to use reduced fat or your spread of choice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Cookie
- 1/2 cup butter softened at room temperature
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar
Salted Caramel Apple Topping (optional)
- 1 medium Apple cored and finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons light/reduced fat butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
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Preheat oven 176c |350f. Lightly grease an 9-inch skillet (or round pie dish) with butter/oil; wipe over excess with paper towel and set aside.
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Combine all Apple Pie Filling ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and gently simmer while occasionally stirring, until apples have softened (about 10 minutes) and caramel has thickened.
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In the meantime, prepare cookie by combining the butter, sugar and vanilla into a large bowl, and whisk until light and creamy. Add the egg and whisk again until smooth.
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In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder and salt. Using a wooden spoon, stir flour into the batter and slowly mix until just combined (do not over beat). Spoon 2/3 the cookie dough into the pan.
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Pour the Apple Pie Filling over the cookie dough 1-inch from the edges. Spoon remaining cookie dough batter over the top of the apple mixture and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar (optional)
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Bake for 35-40 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out slightly dirty. The cookie will be moist and fudgy when taken out, but will set and firm as it cools. Don’t over bake or it will become dry.
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Once cooled, cut into 16 slices. Serve with Salted Caramel Apple Topping.
For the Caramel Sauce:
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Combine all ingredients into the same saucepan you used for the Apple Pie Filling. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and gently simmer until apple slices have softened and caramel has thickened.
Notes
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 27g |
Protein: 1g |
Fat: 8g |
Saturated Fat: 5g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 2g |
Trans Fat: 0.3g |
Cholesterol: 29mg |
Sodium: 123mg |
Potassium: 75mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 20g |
Vitamin A: 297IU |
Vitamin C: 2mg |
Calcium: 25mg |
Iron: 1mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Tried this? Leave a comment below!
Expert Tips for a Perfect Apple Pie Pizookie
- Don’t Overbake: The key to that glorious fudgy center is to pull the skillet cookie from the oven when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out slightly dirty. It will continue to cook and firm up as it cools, ensuring it stays moist and fudgy. An overbaked cookie will be dry, losing its signature texture.
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter for the cookie dough is truly softened at room temperature. This allows it to cream properly with the sugar, incorporating air for a lighter, yet still fudgy, base.
- Fresh Apples for Filling: For the apple pie filling, choose firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. They hold their shape well and provide a nice balance to the sweetness of the cookie and caramel.
- Even Apple Distribution: When spooning the apple filling, try to keep it about an inch from the edges of the cookie dough. This helps create a beautiful border and prevents the filling from bubbling over during baking.
- Cooling is Crucial: While tempting to dive in immediately, allowing the skillet cookie to cool for a bit (at least 15-20 minutes) helps it set properly. This makes slicing easier and enhances the fudgy texture as it settles.
Serving Suggestions & Flavor Pairings
While a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing, don’t hesitate to get creative with your serving! A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a light, airy contrast to the rich cookie. For an extra layer of crunch and nutty flavor, sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts over the top. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce (without apples, if you prefer) also works wonderfully. This deep dish cookie is also fantastic served with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a late-night treat.
Variations to Spark Your Creativity
- Spice It Up: Enhance the apple filling with a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for a more complex flavor profile.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold chopped pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough for an added textural element.
- Chocolate Swirl: For an even more decadent treat, swirl a tablespoon or two of melted dark chocolate into the cookie dough before adding the apple filling.
- Different Fruits: While apple is classic, consider experimenting with other fruit fillings like spiced pear, peach, or even a mixed berry compote for seasonal variations.
- Crumble Topping: Instead of spooning the remaining cookie dough on top, create a simple streusel topping with flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter for a crumble-style finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the apple pie filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The cookie dough can also be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best results.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover skillet cookie covered tightly at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a warm oven for a fresh-baked experience.
Q: What kind of skillet should I use?
A: A 9-inch cast iron skillet is ideal for even baking and a beautiful presentation. If you don’t have one, a regular 9-inch round pie dish will work just as well.
Craving More Delicious Cookie Recipes?
If you’re interested in other apple-based dessert recipes, you can check out my Easy Apple Crumble for a quick and delicious sweet treat.
And if this deep dish cookie has ignited a passion for baking, here are more incredible cookie ideas to try:
- Soft Snickerdoodle Cookie: A timeless classic with a perfect cinnamon-sugar coating.
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies: Embrace seasonal flavors with these wonderfully soft and spiced cookies.
- Best Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies: For the ultimate chocolate lover, these are like brownies in cookie form.
- Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie: Another deep dish marvel, combining spicy gingerbread with gooey Nutella.
