Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful fall treat that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and apple in a soft, chewy cookie. Perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these cookies feature a gooey apple butter center, making them an irresistible choice for dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cookies come together quickly, perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple butter and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holiday gatherings, or just an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each cookie is designed to be soft and chewy, ensuring a delightful bite every time.
• Gooey Center: The apple butter filling adds a unique twist that makes these cookies stand out from traditional snickerdoodles.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for easy assembly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy dough by thoroughly creaming the ingredients.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking and prevent sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Wire cooling rack: Allows baked cookies to cool evenly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.

Ingredients

For these delicious Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter (cool room temperature)
• 3.5 ounces cold full-fat cream cheese
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tablespoons unsulphured molasses
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (see notes below for measuring)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

For Rolling the Cookies

• 1/3 cup cane granulated sugar (for rolling)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for rolling)

For Filling the Cookies

• 3/4 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter
• 4 tablespoons turbinado sugar

How to Make Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line three baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream the Ingredients

In a large bowl of a stand mixer or using a hand mixer:
1. Cream together the unsalted butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses.
2. Mix on low speed for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in:
– The whole egg,
– The egg yolk,
– The vanilla extract.

Scrape down the sides again to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add in:
– The flour,
– Baking powder,
– Cream of tartar,
– Fine sea salt.

Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Prepare Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine:
– Cane granulated sugar,
– Ground cinnamon.

Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough, roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated, then place it on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Fill with Apple Butter

Use the back of a round tablespoon to create an indent in each cookie dough ball. Fill each indent with 1/2 tablespoon of apple butter, then sprinkle with turbinado sugar.

Step 7: Bake

Bake cookies spaced about 2–3 inches apart for 8–12 minutes or until edges are set. Allow cooling on a wire rack before enjoying!

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These delicious apple butter snickerdoodle cookies are perfect for any occasion! Their soft texture and warm spices make them a delightful treat that pairs well with various accompaniments.

With Milk

• A classic pairing, milk enhances the flavors of the cookies and helps balance their sweetness.

With Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies with a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The rich taste of coffee complements the spices beautifully.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your apple butter snickerdoodles on a festive platter alongside other cookies or treats. This makes for an attractive display at gatherings or parties.

With Ice Cream

• Top your warm cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm and cold creates a delightful dessert experience.

As Part of a Gift Basket

• Include these cookies in homemade gift baskets during the holiday season. They make a thoughtful and tasty gift for friends and family.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

To ensure your apple butter snickerdoodle cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape and prevent spreading.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.

• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These apple butter snickerdoodle cookies can shine alongside some delicious side dishes! Here are some excellent pairings that complement their flavor profile.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant touch that contrasts nicely with the cookie’s sweetness.

3. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal drink enhances the fall flavors in your cookies while providing warmth and comfort.

4. Hot Cider: A warm cup of spiced cider is perfect for chilly days, adding another layer of cozy flavor to your cookie experience.

5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a balanced snack that offers a creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies.

6. Nut Mix: A blend of roasted nuts provides crunch and protein, making it a great snack alongside your sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and cream cheese can lead to a dense cookie. Make sure to use ingredients at room temperature for a lighter texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can cause tough cookies. Combine ingredients until just mixed to keep them soft and chewy.
• Incorrect measuring of flour: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down, resulting in dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to spreading during baking. If you have time, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better texture.
• Not using parchment paper: Baking directly on a sheet can result in uneven cooking and sticking. Always line your trays with parchment paper for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight freezer-safe container.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on medium power for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for about 1 minute, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Can I use other types of butter?

Yes, you can substitute with plant-based butter if you prefer a dairy-free option. The flavor may vary slightly but will still be delicious.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be set and lightly golden while the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I customize this Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookie recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even different spices like nutmeg or ginger for added flavor.

What is apple butter and where can I find it?

Apple butter is a spread made from slow-cooked apples and spices. It’s commonly found in grocery stores or can be made at home.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for fall baking with their soft texture and delightful spices. They offer versatility since you can easily customize them with different flavors or add-ins such as nuts or chocolate chips. We encourage you to try making these irresistible treats!