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Close-up of freshly baked apple crumb cookies showcasing the golden-brown crumb topping and soft cookie base, perfect for a delicious fall treat.

Easy Apple Crumb Cookies

These Easy Apple Crumb Cookies are little bites of autumn heaven. The warm, spiced apple filling combined with a sweet and buttery crumb topping makes for an addictive treat. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any fall gathering.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 43 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium apples Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (small, medium, large)
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Pastry blender or fork
  • whisk
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Cookie scoop (optional)
  • wire rack
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and salt. Mix gently until the apples are evenly coated. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. Add the granulated sugar and mix until combined.
  6. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg and vanilla extract.
  7. Pour the egg mixture into the flour mixture and mix until just combined. Don't overmix; the dough should be slightly crumbly.
  8. Gently knead the dough a couple of times to bring it together into a ball.
  9. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
  10. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  11. Divide the cookie dough into about 12 equal portions.
  12. Roll each portion into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
  13. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, create a well in the center of each cookie.
  14. Spoon the apple filling into the wells. Don't overfill.
  15. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apple filling.
  16. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and the crumb topping is lightly browned.
  17. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For best results, use cold butter and avoid overmixing the dough. Adjust spices to your liking. For a richer flavor, try browning the butter for the crumb topping. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping for added texture and flavor. A drizzle of caramel sauce or maple syrup after baking enhances the sweetness. These cookies are best enjoyed fresh.