Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall baking. With a soft, chewy texture and a gooey apple butter center, they are swirled with warm spices and coated in cinnamon sugar. Perfect for gatherings, cozy evenings, or just a sweet indulgence, these cookies will become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: The combination of apple butter and warm spices creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Easy to make: Simple steps ensure even novice bakers can whip up these treats with confidence.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an everyday snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Chewy and soft texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast between the crispy outside and soft inside.
• Gooey center surprise: Each cookie hides a luscious apple butter filling that adds to its charm.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, gather your tools and prepare your workspace for an efficient baking session.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easy, resulting in a light texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheets: Provide even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies:

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

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

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 three baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream together:
1. The unsalted butter
2. The cream cheese
3. The granulated sugar
4. The brown sugar
5. The molasses

Mix on low speed for about three minutes until light and fluffy. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add:
– The large egg
– The egg yolk
– The vanilla extract

Mix until fully incorporated, scraping down the bowl again as needed.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
– The all-purpose flour
– The baking powder
– The cream of tartar
– The fine sea salt

Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until just combined; avoid over-mixing.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

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

Scoop about two tablespoons of dough into your hands to form a ball. Roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Use a round tablespoon to create an indent in the center of each dough ball.

Fill each indent with half a tablespoon of apple butter. Sprinkle some turbinado sugar on top for extra sweetness.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies for 8–12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft. Allow them to cool completely on a wire cooling rack before enjoying!

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying with a warm beverage. Their unique flavors and soft texture make them an excellent treat for any occasion.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a delightful morning treat.
• Tea: Enjoy with herbal or chai tea to enhance the warm spices in the cookies.
• Hot Chocolate: The sweet, chocolatey flavor complements the apple butter beautifully.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Assortment: Include Apple Butter Snickerdoodles alongside other cookies for a fun dessert display at parties.
• Cheese Board: Serve with mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Gifts in a Jar: Layer these cookies in a mason jar for festive gifts that friends and family will love.
• Potluck Treats: Bring to potlucks as a crowd-pleasing dessert option everyone can enjoy.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Creating the perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon and level method to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry results.
• Chill the Dough: If time permits, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps cookies maintain their shape.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Ovens vary; check your cookies at 8 minutes to prevent over-baking. You want them soft but set around the edges.
• Use Quality Apple Butter: Opt for high-quality apple butter for rich flavor and moisture in your cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These delicious cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some ideal pairings.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm cookies.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the snickerdoodles.
3. Cinnamon Applesauce: Serve with cinnamon applesauce for an extra apple flavor kick that resonates with the cookie filling.
4. Whipped Cream: Light whipped cream enhances texture and adds sweetness without overpowering the cookie’s flavor.
5. Nut Mixes: A variety of lightly salted nuts provides a crunchy contrast to the soft snickerdoodles.
6. Cheese Plate: Incorporate mild cheeses like goat cheese or mascarpone for a savory-sweet experience alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will lead to perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies every time.

• Incorrect ingredient measurements: Always use precise measurements for ingredients, especially flour. Too much or too little can affect texture.
• Using cold butter: Ensure your butter is at cool room temperature. Cold butter won’t cream well with the sugars, resulting in dense cookies.
• Not chilling the dough: Chilling your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and keeps your cookies thick and chewy.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Cookies should be slightly underbaked in the center to ensure they remain soft and chewy once cooled.
• Skipping the rolling in cinnamon sugar: Rolling the cookie dough in cinnamon sugar adds flavor and a delightful texture that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Place baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and warm the cookies for about 5-10 minutes for optimal freshness.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie on low power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes per side, ensuring they don’t burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Can I use other types of butter?

Yes, you can use plant-based butter as a substitute if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or dark chocolate chips to enhance the flavor.

What is apple butter?

Apple butter is a spread made from slow-cooked apples, spices, and sugar that creates a rich, flavorful paste perfect for baking.

How should I store leftover apple butter?

Store any leftover apple butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are not just delicious but also versatile. They embody the cozy flavors of fall while being perfectly suited for any occasion. Consider customizing them with your favorite spices or mix-ins to make them uniquely yours!