Prepare Sweet Coating by mixing 1/3 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice in a small bowl. Set aside.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, remaining apple pie spice, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla, mixing well.

Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture into the creamed mixture until a soft dough forms.

Form Dough Balls: Roll dough into 1-inch balls, coat in sweet mixture, and create an indentation with your thumb on a baking sheet.

Chill: Refrigerate the cookies for 2-3 hours.

Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C), bake cookies for about 12 minutes, fill with salted caramel, and return for 1-2 minutes.

Cool: Let cookies cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.