Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are a fantastic way to repurpose leftover pie crust into something delicious. They’re quick to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients, and they bake up in no time. The combination of butter, sugar, and cinnamon (if you choose to add it) makes for a wonderfully sweet, crispy snack. The best part? You can shape them however you like—twisted strips or flat rounds—and add optional ingredients like chocolate chips or chopped nuts to customize the flavor. Whether for an afternoon snack or a simple dessert, these cookies are a winner.
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (plus more for sprinkling)
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pie crust on a clean surface.
- Brush the crust with the beaten egg wash.
- In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon (if using), then sprinkle it evenly over the dough.
- Cut the dough into strips or rounds, depending on your preferred shape. You can twist the strips or leave them flat for a round shape.
- Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Let the cookies cool before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12–16 cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Pie Crust Cookies: Add a few tablespoons of chocolate chips on top before baking for a chocolaty twist.
- Nutty Cookies: Sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or almonds over the dough before baking for extra texture and flavor.
- Spiced Option: Experiment with other spices such as nutmeg, cardamom, or even ginger to create your own unique flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To enjoy them warm, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to crisp them up again.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, store-bought pie crust works perfectly for this recipe and saves you time. You can use either pre-rolled pie dough or the dough from a frozen pie crust.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked, shaped cookies. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag. Bake from frozen for an extra 2-3 minutes.
Can I add more flavors to these cookies?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavor combinations, such as adding vanilla extract, orange zest, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
These cookies are done when they are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Can I make these cookies with a gluten-free crust?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free pie crust to make these cookies. The taste and texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
What can I serve these cookies with?
These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. You could also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert.
Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe if you’re making these cookies for a crowd. Just be sure to bake them in batches if your sheet pan is too small.
Can I use different sweeteners?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with alternatives like brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly.
Can I skip the egg wash?
Yes, you can skip the egg wash, but it does help give the cookies a nice golden color. If you prefer, you can also brush the dough with milk or cream instead.
Are these cookies vegan-friendly?
To make them vegan, use a plant-based pie crust and replace the egg wash with a vegan option like almond milk or a flax egg.
Conclusion
Pie Crust Snacking Cookies are an easy, versatile treat that anyone can make. They’re the perfect solution for using up leftover pie dough, and the combination of sugar and cinnamon (or your favorite toppings) makes for a sweet, crispy snack. Whether you enjoy them with a warm drink or as a simple dessert, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try them today for a quick and satisfying snack!
Pie Crust Snacking Cookies
Pie Crust Snacking Cookies are the perfect way to use up leftover pie dough. These buttery, crispy cookies are quick to make and customizable with ingredients like cinnamon, chocolate chips, or nuts. Whether twisted or shaped into rounds, these sweet treats are ideal for pairing with coffee or tea, making them the perfect snack or light dessert for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 cookies
- Category: Dessert, Snack, Quick Treat
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
¼ cup granulated sugar (plus more for sprinkling)
1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
-
Prepare the Crust: Roll out the pie crust on a clean surface.
-
Egg Wash: Brush the crust with the beaten egg wash.
-
Cinnamon Sugar: Mix sugar and cinnamon (if using) in a small bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the dough.
-
Shape the Dough: Cut the dough into strips or rounds. You can twist the strips or leave them flat.
-
Bake the Cookies: Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
-
Cool: Let the cookies cool before serving.
Notes
Flavor Variations: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or other spices like nutmeg or cardamom to customize the flavor.
Egg Wash Alternative: Skip the egg wash and brush with milk or cream for a dairy-free option.
