Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. With their soft and chewy texture, these cookies feature a gooey apple butter center and a warm cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings by the fireplace, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies stand out with their unique flavors and comforting spices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple butter and cinnamon creates a deliciously warm taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are perfectly baked to achieve a soft, chewy center that pairs beautifully with the spiced exterior.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these delightful cookies in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 27 servings, they’re great for potlucks, parties, or just sharing with family and friends.
• Versatile Treats: Enjoy them warm out of the oven or store them for later; they stay fresh and tasty for days!

Tools and Preparation

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

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: Makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless for a light, fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients properly without mess.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking on baking sheets while ensuring even cooking.
• Wire cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly without becoming soggy.

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Ingredients

To create these delightful Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, gather 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
• 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). Line three baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream the Mixture

In a large bowl using a stand mixer or hand mixer:
1. Cream together the 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 all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in:
1. The egg and egg yolk until fully incorporated.
2. The vanilla extract while scraping down the sides of the bowl again.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in:
1. The flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and fine sea salt until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

1. In a small bowl, combine cane sugar and ground cinnamon for rolling.
2. Scoop a dough ball (about 2 tablespoons) into the cinnamon-sugar mixture; roll until coated.
3. Place it on a prepared baking sheet. Use the back of a round tablespoon to create an indent in the center.
4. Fill each indent with approximately 1/2 tablespoon of apple butter and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.

Step 6: Bake

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

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with these delicious treats.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a rich cup of coffee for a delightful morning treat.
• Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of hot chocolate complements the warm spices in the cookies beautifully.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can balance the sweetness and add a comforting touch.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Selection: Combine with mild cheeses like cream cheese or mascarpone for an interesting flavor contrast.
• Fruit Slices: Fresh apple or pear slices offer a refreshing balance to the sweet cookies.
• Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

For Gift Giving

• Cookie Jars: Layer these cookies in decorative jars as thoughtful homemade gifts for friends and family.
• Bakery Boxes: Present them in pretty bakery boxes tied with ribbon for special occasions.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Achieving the ideal texture and flavor in your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies is easy with a few simple tricks. Consider these helpful tips for perfect results every time.

• Chill Your Dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and achieve a chewy texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid using too much, which can make cookies dry.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing, resulting in fluffier cookies.
• Don’t Overbake: Remove them from the oven when edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon or add nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

While Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies shine on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creamy richness to the cookie’s flavors.
2. Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai enhance the cookie’s own spice profile, creating harmony in flavors.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the cookies for an extra indulgent treat that enhances their flavor.
5. Whipped Cream Topping: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that complements the chewy cookies perfectly.
6. Nut Mixes: A bowl of spiced nuts provides crunch and contrasts nicely with the softness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with a delightful recipe like Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter instead of room temperature can lead to dense cookies. Always let your butter sit out for at least 30 minutes before mixing.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much after adding flour can make cookies tough. Stop mixing as soon as you see no dry flour.

• Not Measuring Flour Properly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour accurately.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: If you skip letting cookies cool on a wire rack, they may crumble or become soggy. Allow them to cool completely for the best texture.

• Not Using Enough Cinnamon Sugar: A light dusting won’t give that classic snickerdoodle flavor. Ensure you coat each cookie generously in cinnamon sugar before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds to avoid drying them out.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered for a few minutes, ensuring they stay soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies different?

Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies stand out because of their rich apple butter center combined with classic snickerdoodle spices, creating a unique flavor experience.

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Absolutely! Homemade apple butter can add a personal touch and flavor adjustment according to your taste preferences.

Are there any variations for these cookies?

Yes! You can experiment with different spices like nutmeg or add nuts for extra crunch if desired.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Look for edges that are set but still soft in the center. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool on the rack.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for fall baking and beyond. With their soft texture and gooey centers, they cater to both traditional and adventurous palates. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or mix-ins!