Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are the perfect dessert for fall, combining soft, chewy textures with a delightful blend of spices. With a gooey apple butter center and a sweet cinnamon sugar coating, these cookies are sure to impress at any gathering. Whether for a cozy family night or a festive occasion, their warm flavors will make them a favorite treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple butter and cinnamon creates a unique taste that stands out.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each cookie boasts a tender bite, making them enjoyable for all ages.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits for an extra twist!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for holiday gatherings, school events, or just a sweet snack at home.
• Simple to Make: With straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for achieving the right creamy texture when mixing wet ingredients.
• Mixing bowls: Having several bowls helps keep your ingredients organized during preparation.
• Baking sheets: Provides even cooking space while allowing multiple batches to be baked simultaneously.

Ingredients

These apple butter snickerdoodles are fall baking at its best: soft, chewy, and swirled with warm spices. Each cookie has a gooey apple butter center and a cinnamon sugar coating that makes them irresistible!

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 Dry Ingredients

• 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). Line three baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large 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. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in:
1. The large egg,
2. The egg yolk,
3. The vanilla extract,
until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Add in:
1. The all-purpose flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Cream of tartar,
4. Sea salt,
and mix until just combined.

Step 5: Prepare Cookies for Baking

In a small bowl, combine:
– The cane granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.

For each cookie:
1. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of dough.
2. Roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
3. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Use the back of a tablespoon to create an indent in the center.
5. Fill each indent with about 1/2 tablespoon of apple butter.
6. Sprinkle turbinado sugar over each filled cookie.

Step 6: Bake

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

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These delightful cookies can be enjoyed in many ways, making them perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Serve them warm for a gooey treat or pair them with your favorite beverages.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of the cookies. Try whole, almond, or oat milk for a creamy complement.

Alongside Coffee or Tea

• The warm spices in the cookies match perfectly with your morning coffee or afternoon tea, adding a comforting touch to your break.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies alongside other sweets like brownies and fruit tarts for a stunning dessert spread at parties or holiday gatherings.

With Ice Cream

• Place a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top of one cookie for an indulgent dessert. Alternatively, crush the cookies over ice cream for added texture.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a touch of decadence by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cookies just before serving. This creates an irresistible combination of flavors.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

To achieve the best results with your apple butter snickerdoodle cookies, follow these helpful tips for perfecting your baking technique.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing flour into the measuring cup, which can lead to dense cookies.
• Chill Dough If Necessary: If your dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before rolling into balls to make handling easier.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center for that chewy texture.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger to the sugar coating for an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with apple butter.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

While apple butter snickerdoodle cookies are delightful on their own, they can also be paired with some tasty side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Chai-Spiced Tea
   A warm cup of chai tea infused with spices complements the flavors in your cookies beautifully.
2. Pumpkin Soup
   The creamy texture and autumn spices in pumpkin soup create a comforting balance when served alongside sweet treats.
3. Roasted Pear Salad
   This salad features roasted pears and nuts that add freshness and crunch, creating a delightful contrast to the soft cookies.
4. Cheesecake Bites
   Mini cheesecake bites offer rich creaminess that pairs well with the spiced flavors of snickerdoodles.
5. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
   For those who love variety, oatmeal raisin cookies provide an additional chewy experience without overwhelming sweetness.
6. Candied Nuts
   Sweet and crunchy candied nuts make an excellent snack that complements the soft texture of snickerdoodle cookies perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and even small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or cream cheese can prevent proper creaming. Always ensure they are at cool room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much after adding the flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for that perfect chewiness.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down, leading to dry cookies. Use a spoon to fluff it up first and then spoon it into your measuring cup.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can cause cookies to spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature Accuracy: An oven that runs hot or cold can affect baking time. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy for perfect baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week.

Freezing Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Place completely cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes to warm through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm cookies covered with a lid for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, here are some common questions answered.

What makes Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies special?

These cookies combine the classic snickerdoodle flavor with a rich apple butter filling, creating a delightful twist that’s perfect for fall.

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Yes! Homemade apple butter works great in this recipe and adds a personal touch to your cookies.

How should I store my Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I replace cream cheese with another ingredient?

You can use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative, but it may change the texture slightly.

Are these cookies suitable for gift giving?

Absolutely! Pack them in a decorative box or tin, and they’re sure to impress friends and family during the holiday season.

Final Thoughts

Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are not only delicious but also offer versatility in flavor combinations. You can customize them by adding nuts or using different spices. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, so give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm embrace of fall flavors!