Are you craving something sweet, buttery, and utterly delightful, but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? Then look no further! These Pie Crust Cookies are the perfect solution. They're incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less effort. This recipe transforms simple pie crust into irresistible little cookies, perfect for a quick dessert, an after-school snack, or even a sophisticated addition to your next gathering. Get ready to experience the magic of transforming ordinary pie crust into something truly extraordinary. These are guaranteed to become a new favorite in your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, offering a delicious alternative to heavily processed snacks.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures perfectly golden-brown cookies.
Step 2: Combine Sweetness & Spice
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Mix well to ensure even distribution of the spices. This blend will create a warm and inviting flavor profile for your cookies.
Step 3: Cut & Sprinkle
Unroll the pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Using a cookie cutter (or a knife for free-form shapes), cut out desired shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the cookies.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning. Remember, oven temperatures can vary, so it's always best to visually check for doneness.
Step 5: Cool & Enjoy
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy and allows them to maintain their crisp texture.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pie Crust Cookies:
- For extra flavor: Brush the cookies with a little melted butter before sprinkling with the sugar mixture.
- Get creative with shapes: Use different cookie cutters to make fun shapes for kids or themed events. Heart-shaped cookies are perfect for Valentine's Day!
- Don't overbake: Overbaked cookies will be dry and hard. Start checking for doneness at the 10-minute mark.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Pie Crust Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the sugar mixture before sprinkling. The combination of chocolate and pie crust is simply heavenly.
- Nutty Delight: Add 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the sugar mixture for added crunch and flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the sugar mixture for a bright, refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your cookies and the specific pie crust used. However, a general estimate would place the calories in the 100-150 calorie range, with a moderate amount of fat and sugar.
These Pie Crust Cookies are a simple, yet satisfying treat, perfect for those looking for easy recipes, homemade cooking, and delicious dishes that are quick to prepare. They offer a delightful blend of buttery, flaky crust and sweet spices, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. They are also a great way to use up leftover pie crust, minimizing food waste. Enjoy!