Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are the perfect treat for fall baking. Soft and chewy, they feature a delightful gooey apple butter center surrounded by warm spices and a cinnamon sugar coating. Ideal for gatherings, cozy nights in, or a sweet surprise for friends, these cookies are sure to impress with their unique flavor and inviting aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple butter and spices creates a unique taste that’s both comforting and delicious.
• Perfect Texture: Each cookie is soft on the inside with a slight crunch on the outside, making every bite enjoyable.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to everyday snacks.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Fun to Share: These cookies make a wonderful gift; package them up for friends or family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and ensure your dough is mixed thoroughly for the perfect texture.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

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Ingredients

To make these delightful cookies, you will need:

For the 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

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

For Filling

• 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) and line 3 baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Together 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 on low speed for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gently mix in:
1. The all-purpose flour,
2. The baking powder,
3. The cream of tartar,
4. The fine sea salt.
Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Roll Cookies

In a small bowl:
1. Combine the cane granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
2. Scoop a tablespoon-sized ball of cookie dough into this mixture, rolling until fully coated.
3. Place on the baking sheet; use the back of a round tablespoon to create an indent in each cookie.
4. Fill each indent with 1/2 tablespoon of apple butter, sprinkling with turbinado sugar.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

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

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These delightful Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing their appeal. Whether at a gathering or a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
• The spices in the cookies complement the flavors of both beverages beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other baked goods for a delightful spread.
• Add colorful fruits or even chocolate treats to create an inviting presentation.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream.
• The heat from the cookie will slightly melt the ice cream, creating a delicious contrast.

For Holiday Gatherings

• Present these cookies at holiday parties as they bring festive flavors that everyone loves.
• Consider packaging them as gifts for friends and family, adding a personal touch.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Achieving the perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out wonderfully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and cream cheese to sit at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense cookies.
• Chill Dough if Needed: If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Keep an eye on the cookies in the oven; overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Aim for golden edges.
• Cool on Wire Racks: Transferring baked cookies onto wire racks allows them to cool evenly and prevents sogginess.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon or add nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor in your snickerdoodles.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that contrast nicely with the sweet flavors.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a creamy, crunchy side that complements the soft cookie texture.

4. Chai-Spiced Nuts
   A mix of spiced nuts provides a crunchy texture and pairs well with the warm spices in the cookies.

5. Pumpkin Soup
   A small bowl of creamy pumpkin soup offers savory warmth that goes well with sweet desserts.

6. Caramel Dip
   Serve alongside sliced apples and caramel dip for an interactive dessert experience that enhances flavor combinations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking these delicious Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. Cold ingredients won’t cream well, leading to dense cookies.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: If you’re in a hurry, don’t skip chilling the dough. This step helps with texture and prevents spreading during baking.
• Overmixing the Dough: Once you add the flour, mix only until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour. Too much flour can dry out your cookies, making them less enjoyable.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them once the edges are set for perfect softness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• 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 to an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds on medium power. Avoid overheating as this can make them tough.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a pan over low heat, cover it, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies special?

These cookies are unique because they combine traditional snickerdoodle flavors with the rich sweetness of apple butter, adding moisture and depth.

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Yes! Homemade apple butter works wonderfully in this recipe. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold its shape during baking.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Look for slightly set edges with a soft center. The cookies will continue cooking after being removed from the oven.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or different spices like nutmeg or allspice for additional flavor variations.

How should I store leftover dough?

Wrap any leftover dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies blend fall flavors into every bite, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Experiment with different spices or add-ins to make them uniquely yours!