Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are the perfect treat for fall baking. With their soft and chewy texture, warm spices, and a gooey apple butter center, these cookies are sure to impress at any gathering. Their delightful cinnamon sugar coating adds an irresistible crunch that makes them a standout dessert for holidays, parties, or simply enjoying at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple butter and warm spices creates a unique flavor that is both comforting and exciting.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create these delicious cookies with ease.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for fall gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just an indulgent treat on a cozy night in.
• Versatile Delight: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later—these cookies remain soft and delicious for days.
• Fun to Customize: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or swapping out the spices according to your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your delicious Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

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: These tools make creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy cookie dough.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment prevents sticking and ensures even baking.

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Ingredients

To create these delightful 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

For the Cookie Base

• 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 and Filling

• 1/3 cup cane granulated sugar (for rolling)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for rolling)
• 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) while you prepare the cookie dough. Line three baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients

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

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in:
1. The large egg,
2. The large egg yolk,
3. The vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Scrape down the bowl again.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Incorporate:
1. The all-purpose flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Cream of tartar,
4. Fine sea salt until just combined.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

In a small bowl:
1. Combine cane granulated sugar with ground cinnamon.
2. Scoop a tablespoon-sized ball of cookie dough into this mixture, rolling it around until fully coated.
3. Place on the prepared baking sheet and use a round tablespoon to indent the center.
4. Fill each indentation with half a tablespoon of apple butter and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake cookies spaced 2–3 inches apart:
1. Bake for approximately 8–12 minutes or until edges are set.
2. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before enjoying!

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These delightful apple butter snickerdoodle cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying during cozy gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Enjoy these cookies with a chilled glass of milk for a classic pairing that complements their sweetness and texture.

Warmed with Ice Cream

• Heat the cookies slightly in the microwave and serve them topped with your favorite vanilla ice cream. The gooey apple butter center pairs beautifully with the cold ice cream.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange apple butter snickerdoodle cookies on a dessert platter alongside other fall-inspired treats like pumpkin bars or pecan pie for a festive touch.

With Hot Apple Cider

• Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of spiced apple cider to enhance their apple flavor and create a cozy atmosphere.

Gift-Wrapped for Friends

• Package these cookies in decorative bags or boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Achieving the perfect batch of apple butter snickerdoodle cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out irresistible every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method when measuring flour to avoid dense cookies; too much flour can lead to dryness.
• Chill Dough if Necessary: If your dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before rolling. This helps maintain shape while baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be set around the edges but still soft in the center when removed from the oven.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor that complements the apple butter.
• Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness, or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Pairing side dishes with apple butter snickerdoodle cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn
   A sweet and crunchy snack that echoes the flavors of your cookies, making it a fun addition to any dessert table.

2. Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes
   This dish adds a savory element that balances out the sweetness of the cookies while complementing their fall flavors.

3. Spiced Pear Compote
   Serve this warm compote as a topping for the cookies or on its own for a fruity contrast that enhances the overall experience.

4. Caramel Dipping Sauce
   Provide this rich sauce as an optional dip for added sweetness and indulgence, pairing nicely with the spices in your cookies.

5. Cheese Platter with Brie
   The creamy texture of brie cheese offers a delightful contrast; try adding some nuts and dried fruits to round out this sophisticated side.

6. Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte
   A warm drink that pairs perfectly with these fall-inspired cookies, enhancing their cozy vibe while providing a comforting beverage option.

7. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A light and refreshing option that cleanses the palate between bites, featuring seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and grapes.

8. Dark Chocolate Bark
   A rich treat that offers a nice contrast to the sweetness of the snickerdoodles; consider adding nuts or dried fruits for extra texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when perfecting your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for cookie texture. Use the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping directly from the bag.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Cold butter or cream cheese won’t blend well, affecting the cookie’s consistency. Let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing.
• Using warm baking sheets: Warm sheets can cause the cookies to spread too much. Ensure your baking sheets are cool between batches for uniform cookies.
• Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different; don’t rely solely on time. Monitor your cookies and remove them when the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, here are some answers.

Can I use other types of butter?

You can substitute unsalted butter with plant-based butter alternatives if needed. Just ensure it’s at room temperature for best results.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

What can I substitute for apple butter?

If you don’t have apple butter, you can use pureed apples or another fruit spread as a filling.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall. With their soft texture and gooey center, they’re sure to impress anyone who tries them. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or adjusting spices according to your preference!