# Components:
→ Cookie Cups
01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Apple Pie Filling
08 - 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
10 - 3 tablespoons brown sugar
11 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
12 - 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
13 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
14 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
→ Garnish (optional)
15 - Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
16 - Dusting of ground cinnamon
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 12-cup muffin pan using nonstick spray or butter.
02 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
03 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually incorporate dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
04 - Divide dough into 12 equal portions. Press each piece into a muffin cup, forming a well in the center. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to maintain shape.
05 - Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until lightly golden. Gently press centers down with a spoon again while still warm. Allow to cool in the pan.
06 - Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring until apples soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
07 - Dissolve cornstarch in 1 tablespoon water, stir into apple mixture, and cook for 1 to 2 more minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
08 - Spoon the warm apple filling into cooled cookie cups.
09 - Serve warm or at room temperature. Optionally, top with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of cinnamon.
