Caramel Apple Cookie Pizza

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this Caramel Apple Cookie Pizza because it takes everything I enjoy about caramel apples and turns it into a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to serve. The sugar cookie crust is buttery and soft, the cream cheese frosting adds the perfect tangy contrast, and the fresh apples and pecans bring texture and crunch. The caramel drizzle ties it all together for that irresistible finish. It’s festive, simple, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Sugar Cookie Dough:
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Cream Cheese Frosting:
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 to 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Toppings:
1–2 cups finely cubed Granny Smith apple (see note to prevent browning)
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup caramel sauce

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, I beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. I add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

3. In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. I slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

4. I press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. I let it cool completely.

5. While the crust cools, I prepare the frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy. I add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk (or cream), starting on low speed and increasing until the mixture is light and creamy.

6. I spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie crust.

7. I sprinkle the diced apples and chopped pecans over the frosting.

8. I drizzle caramel sauce generously across the top.

9. I cut the cookie pizza into squares and serve immediately, or chill until ready to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 20 squares.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Bake time: 14 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the frosting for a warm, spiced flavor.

• For a nut-free version, I replace pecans with crushed pretzels or toffee bits.

• I love using honeycrisp or pink lady apples for a sweeter bite.

• When I want extra caramel flavor, I swirl caramel into the frosting before spreading it on the crust.

• I occasionally top it with a drizzle of melted white chocolate for an elegant touch.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, I let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes so the frosting softens slightly. I avoid freezing this dessert since the apples can lose their texture once thawed.

FAQs

How do I keep the apples from browning?

I soak the chopped apples in a bowl of cold water with 1/2 teaspoon of salt per cup of water for 5 minutes. Then, I drain, rinse, and pat them dry before using.

Can I use store-bought sugar cookie dough?

Yes, I often use pre-made cookie dough when I need to save time—it works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! I bake the cookie crust and prepare the frosting a day ahead. I assemble the pizza just before serving to keep the apples fresh.

What kind of caramel sauce works best?

I like using thick, rich caramel sauce for drizzling—homemade or store-bought both work well.

Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely—walnuts or almonds are great substitutes for pecans.

Can I use a round pan to make it look more like pizza?

Yes, a 12-inch pizza pan or round baking stone works beautifully.

How do I get clean slices?

I chill the dessert for 15–20 minutes before slicing, then wipe the knife between cuts for neat squares.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, I substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour.

Can I add more toppings?

Definitely! I love adding mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or sea salt flakes on top for variety.

Is this dessert best served cold or at room temperature?

I like it slightly chilled—the frosting stays firm, and the caramel doesn’t get too runny.

Conclusion

This Caramel Apple Cookie Pizza is one of my favorite desserts to make when I want something quick, fun, and impressive. I love how the buttery cookie base, tangy cream cheese frosting, and caramel-drizzled apples come together in perfect harmony. It’s an easy yet elegant dessert that always steals the show—and there’s never a crumb left behind!