Pie Crust Cookies

Pie Crust Cookies are the epitome of simple comfort food. Born out of the age-old practice of repurposing leftover pie dough, these cookies are a nostalgic favorite for many families. Whether you’ve just finished baking a pie or you’re looking for a quick snack to enjoy with a warm cup of tea, Pie Crust Cookies deliver a flaky, buttery bite with a sweet cinnamon-sugar twist.

The beauty of these cookies lies in their simplicity. With just a few pantry staples—sugar, cinnamon, and butter—you can transform humble pie crust into a dessert that’s surprisingly elegant in both taste and appearance. Whether you make them with store-bought pie dough or your own homemade version, these cookies offer a delightful blend of textures: crisp edges and tender centers with just the right amount of sweetness.

Perfect for all ages, Pie Crust Cookies are an excellent project for introducing kids to the joys of baking. The process is straightforward, the ingredients are minimal, and the results are always delicious. Their versatility allows you to play with shapes, spices, and toppings, making them an ideal choice for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or a quick treat when you’re craving something sweet.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 (14-ounce) package of pie crusts
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface.
  3. Brush the melted butter evenly over the pie crusts.
  4. Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered pie crusts.
  5. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the pie crusts into small strips or shapes as desired.
  6. Place the pie crust pieces on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each.
  7. Optionally, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for extra crunch.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and crispy.
  9. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 120 kcal per cookie | Servings: 12 cookies

About Pie Crust Cookies

Pie Crust Cookies are a delightful and easy-to-make treat, perfect for using up leftover pie dough or simply satisfying a craving for something sweet and flaky. These cookies combine the buttery goodness of pie crust with a light dusting of cinnamon and sugar, creating a dessert that is both crisp and melt-in-your-mouth tender.

These cookies are incredibly versatile and can be shaped into various forms to suit different occasions. Whether you cut them into strips, circles, or festive shapes for holidays, Pie Crust Cookies are a simple way to turn basic ingredients into a delicious snack. The coarse sugar sprinkled on top gives them an added crunch, making each bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Quick & Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep and cook time, making it a great last-minute dessert or snack.
  2. Versatile: You can use store-bought pie crust for convenience, or homemade dough for an extra personal touch. The recipe can be adapted with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for variety.
  3. Kid-Friendly: These cookies are simple enough for kids to help out in the kitchen, and they’re a hit with people of all ages.
  4. Perfect for Leftovers: It’s an excellent way to repurpose leftover pie crusts after making pies during the holidays or special occasions.
  5. Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples like sugar, cinnamon, and butter, you can whip up these cookies in no time.

Serving Suggestions

Pie Crust Cookies can be served as a standalone snack or paired with other desserts. They are delicious when dipped in hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. You can even use them as a topping for ice cream or pudding to add a sweet, crunchy layer. Another fun idea is to serve them alongside fruit spreads or jams for a simple yet elegant dessert platter.

Storage Tips

To keep the cookies fresh and crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to 5 days. If you’d like to make them in advance, they can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Recipe Variations

  • Chocolate Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an extra indulgent touch.
  • Spiced Sugar: Try using different spice combinations like nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to switch up the flavor profile.
  • Savory Twist: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, and instead, sprinkle with herbs, grated cheese, or sesame seeds for a savory version that pairs well with soups or stews.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Pie Crust Cookies make a charming addition to any dessert table during the holidays or family gatherings. They’re especially popular during Thanksgiving and Christmas, but can be enjoyed year-round as a go-to snack. Their rustic appearance and rich, buttery flavor make them a comforting, nostalgic treat that appeals to everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a fun way to use leftover pie dough or want to prepare a quick dessert, these Pie Crust Cookies are a delightful solution. They’re easy, delicious, and sure to bring a smile to anyone who tries them.

Why These Cookies Stand Out

While there are countless cookie recipes to choose from, Pie Crust Cookies have a charm all their own:

  1. Minimal Effort, Maximum Reward: This recipe is perfect when you’re short on time but still want to create something special. Whether you’re using leftover dough or making them from scratch, they come together in under 30 minutes.
  2. Great for All Skill Levels: Even novice bakers can handle this recipe with ease. There’s no need to worry about intricate techniques or fancy ingredients.
  3. Customizable: Add a drizzle of chocolate, swap cinnamon for cardamom, or sprinkle coarse sugar for extra crunch. You can make these cookies uniquely yours.
  4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Pie Crust Cookies are wonderful as a casual snack or a dessert for a more formal event. They pair well with a variety of beverages, from hot cocoa to champagne.

Conclusion:

Pie Crust Cookies are more than just a way to use up leftover pie dough—they’re a testament to how simple ingredients can create something memorable. Their delicate, flaky texture, combined with the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar, makes them a hit at any table. Whether served as a light dessert after a hearty meal or enjoyed as an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee, these cookies offer a satisfying sweetness that’s not too overpowering.

The versatility of Pie Crust Cookies means they can be adapted for a wide range of preferences and occasions. For a festive holiday version, you might cut the dough into seasonal shapes and sprinkle colored sugar on top. If you prefer a more sophisticated touch, a drizzle of dark chocolate or a pinch of sea salt can elevate these cookies into a gourmet treat. Even savory variations are possible—using herbs, grated cheese, or seeds to create a snack that pairs perfectly with wine or cheese platters.

These cookies also embody the spirit of resourcefulness, showing that even the simplest ingredients can be transformed into something special. In today’s world, where we often look for quick and easy solutions, Pie Crust Cookies are a reminder that homemade treats don’t have to be complicated to be delicious.

Their quick preparation and crowd-pleasing taste make them an excellent go-to dessert for any last-minute gathering. You can bake up a batch in no time, knowing they’ll disappear just as quickly once served. Best of all, they store well, making them a convenient snack to have on hand throughout the week. Just keep them in an airtight container, and you’ll have a crispy, sweet bite ready whenever the craving strikes.

In conclusion, Pie Crust Cookies are a delightful reminder of how simplicity in the kitchen often leads to the most cherished recipes. They blend nostalgia with practicality, making them a perfect addition to any baker’s repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these cookies offer a foolproof way to bring the warmth of homemade goodness to your kitchen, time and time again.

So the next time you find yourself with leftover pie dough—or even if you don’t—give these Pie Crust Cookies a try. You’ll find that something so simple can also be incredibly satisfying, bringing smiles and sweet moments to your family and friends.

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