Apple Pecan Cookie Cups Recipe

I absolutely love sharing this Apple Pecan Cookie Cups Recipe because it’s one of those delightful little treats that feel like a cozy hug on a plate. The buttery cream cheese crust paired with warm cinnamon-spiced apple and crunchy pecans is just irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just craving a comforting autumn snack, these cookie cups are sure to please.

When I first tried this recipe, I was smitten by how easy it was to make a flaky, rich crust that perfectly cradled the sweet filling. You’ll find that it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of apple and pecan without the fuss of a pie. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a go-to in your baking rotation.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here work harmoniously to create a creamy, tender crust and a flavorful filling that’s just right — not too sweet, not too heavy. Plus, these are common pantry staples, so you likely have most on hand already.

• Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese adds richness and tenderness to the crust, making it melt-in-your-mouth good.
• Unsalted butter: Helps create a flaky, buttery crust—always opt for unsalted so you control the salt levels.
• All-purpose flour: The base for the crust, providing structure without toughness.
• Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and helps bind the crust perfectly.
• Large egg: Binds the filling ingredients together and adds a bit of richness.
• Brown sugar: Brings warmth and depth to the apple-pecan filling.
• Pecans: Chopped pecans provide irresistible crunch and complement the apples beautifully.
• Apples: Peeled and diced small for tender sweetness; I recommend tart varieties like Granny Smith.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors and adds a lovely aroma.
• Ground cinnamon: A classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples and pecans.
• Powdered sugar for garnish: A pretty finishing touch that adds subtle sweetness and looks adorable.

Variations

One of the best things about this Apple Pecan Cookie Cups Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. I often switch things up depending on the season or what I have in my pantry – feel free to get creative!

• Nut substitutions: Once I swapped pecans for walnuts and still loved the crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Apple varieties: Using sweeter apples like Honeycrisp makes these really mellow, while tart apples like Granny Smith keep them bright and zesty.
• Spice additions: I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a deeper fall flavor profile.
• Gluten-free option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that’s good for baking to make these allergy-friendly.

How to Make Apple Pecan Cookie Cups Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Crust

Start by beating the softened cream cheese and butter until completely smooth and combined—this usually takes about 2 minutes with an electric mixer. Then, add the flour and powdered sugar gradually, mixing just until everything comes together into a soft dough. I discovered that chilling the dough in the freezer for exactly one hour helps make it easier to handle and keeps the crust tender and flaky.

Step 2: Mix the Apple Pecan Filling

While the dough chills, combine the egg, brown sugar, chopped pecans, diced apples, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a bowl. Mix gently with a fork, so you don’t mush the apples but get everything evenly coated. This simple mix-up is the star filling in the Apple Pecan Cookie Cups Recipe and smells amazing as you stir it.

Step 3: Shape the Cookie Cups

Once your dough is chilled, scoop out a tablespoon-sized portion, roll it into a ball, and press it gently into each cavity of a mini muffin pan. You don’t have to grease the pan if it’s non-stick, but if you want extra insurance against sticking, a quick spray won’t hurt. I use a tart shaper or just my fingertips to press the dough evenly, making sure not to push it over the edges of the cups.

Step 4: Fill and Bake

Drop about a teaspoon of the apple pecan filling into each crust-lined cup. The filling might bubble up a little as it bakes—I’ve found placing the muffin pan on a baking sheet helps catch any overflow and keeps your oven clean. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for about 20 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling looks set.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the cookie cups cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes so they firm up a bit. Gently pop them out and give them a dusting of powdered sugar for that pretty, classic finish. I always try one immediately—it’s hard to resist!

How to Serve Apple Pecan Cookie Cups Recipe

Garnishes

I keep it simple with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar because it adds sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors. Occasionally, I’ll add a small dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a special touch that really makes these cookie cups sing.

Side Dishes

These cookie cups pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a cozy mug of spiced chai tea. For brunch, I like serving them alongside fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait to balance their richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I arrange these cookie cups on a tiered dessert stand and add autumn leaves or fresh cranberries around them for seasonal charm. I’ve also gifted them in small decorative boxes tied with twine, and they’ve been a huge hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover cookie cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. They keep their flavor well, but I recommend bringing them to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture.

Freezing

I’ve found these freeze beautifully! After baking and cooling, I pop them into a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll last up to three months — perfect for prepping ahead of busy holidays.

Reheating

To reheat, I place the cookie cups on a baking sheet and warm them in a 325°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. This revives the crispness of the crust while gently warming the filling. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that lovely texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I love how approachable and comforting this Apple Pecan Cookie Cups Recipe feels, yet it’s special enough to impress whenever I make it. It’s like capturing the best parts of a classic apple pie in a delightful little package. You really can’t go wrong with these, and I’m sure once you try them, they’ll become a handbag staple for your recipe collection—perfect for cozy afternoons and sharing with friends.

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