Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are the ultimate fall treat! Soft, chewy, and infused with warm spices, these cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings or as a delightful dessert to enjoy any time of year. With a gooey apple butter center and a sugary cinnamon coating, they bring together the best flavors of autumn in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple butter and warm spices creates a unique taste that will captivate your senses.
• Easy to Follow: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is straightforward and fun!
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings or as gifts, these cookies can be enjoyed by family and friends alike.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to casual get-togethers.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the spices or add nuts for an extra twist!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

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 effortless, ensuring a light texture in your cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills. Using different sizes helps keep your workspace organized.
• Baking sheets: Provides even heat distribution during baking for perfectly shaped cookies.

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 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

• 1/3 cup cane granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For Filling

• 3/4 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter

For Topping

• 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 Butter Mixture

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 to ensure everything is well mixed.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in one large egg, one egg yolk, and vanilla extract:
1. Mix until fully incorporated.
2. Scrape down the bowl again.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Mix in:
– The all-purpose flour,
– Baking powder,
– Cream of tartar,
– Fine sea salt until just combined.

Step 5: Prepare Cookie Dough Balls

In a small bowl:
1. Combine cane granulated sugar with ground cinnamon.
2. Scoop out a tablespoon-sized ball of dough into the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Roll it around until fully coated.
3. Place it on the prepared baking sheet; use a round tablespoon’s back to create an indent in the center.
4. Fill each indent with 1/2 tablespoon of apple butter and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.

Step 6: Bake

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

Enjoy your delicious Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies!

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Apple butter snickerdoodle cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a cozy snack or a festive dessert, here are some serving suggestions to make the most of these sweet bites.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing these cookies with cold milk enhances their flavor and gives a comforting touch.

Warm from the Oven

• Serve them warm for a melty apple butter center; it’s an irresistible experience.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a platter with other baked goods for an inviting dessert spread at gatherings.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea, as the spices complement the beverages perfectly.

As Party Favors

• Package them in cute bags for guests to take home, adding a personal touch to any occasion.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

To ensure your apple butter snickerdoodle cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Measure Flour Properly: Use the scoop and level method when measuring flour to avoid dense cookies.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; remove them from the oven when edges are set but centers might look underbaked for optimal softness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These apple butter snickerdoodle cookies pair beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream contrasts nicely with the spiced flavors.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over cookies for an indulgent treat that elevates their flavor.
3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances the richness of the cookies.
4. Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sophisticated touch at gatherings.
5. Hot Chocolate: Enjoy them alongside a steaming mug of hot chocolate during chilly fall evenings.
6. Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai complement the flavor profile of apple butter snickerdoodles perfectly.
7. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Serve with pumpkin spice muffins for an autumn-themed dessert table.
8. Nut Mix: A simple nut mix brings crunch and complements the soft texture of the cookies nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when it comes to cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for while making your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at cool room temperature. Cold ingredients can prevent proper mixing and lead to dense cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined after adding the flour. Overmixing can activate the gluten, resulting in tough cookies rather than soft and chewy ones.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate flour measurement. Too much flour can make your cookies dry instead of soft.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you choose to chill the dough, it helps flavors develop and prevents spreading during baking. Give your dough some time in the fridge!
• Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be set around the edges but still soft in the center; they will firm up as they cool.

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 unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh taste.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat and warm cookies gently for a few minutes, flipping them occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Yes, homemade apple butter works perfectly! Just ensure it has a similar consistency to store-bought varieties.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

You can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

What is the best way to store Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies with nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should be set while the centers remain slightly soft. They will continue cooking on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips, making them perfect for any gathering or personal treat. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of spices and apple flavor!