Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall baking. With their soft and chewy texture, these cookies are filled with a gooey apple butter center and rolled in a warm cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for cozy gatherings or simply enjoying at home, these cookies bring warmth and flavor to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple butter and spices creates a unique taste that is both comforting and delicious.
• Perfectly Chewy Texture: These cookies maintain a soft, chewy consistency that keeps you coming back for more.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for fall festivities, holiday gatherings, or just an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these delicious cookies.
• Family-Friendly Recipe: Everyone will love the sweet apple flavor and cinnamon sugar coating, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before baking your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving perfect cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make it easy to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, ensuring a well-mixed dough.
• Baking sheets: Using quality baking sheets allows for even baking, preventing burnt edges while keeping your cookies soft inside.

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
• 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) while you prepare your cookie dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter Mixture

In a large bowl of a stand mixer or using a 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 everything is mixed well.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in:
1. The egg,
2. The egg yolk,
3. The vanilla extract.
Scrape down the bowl again to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gently mix in:
1. The flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Cream of tartar,
4. Fine sea salt.
Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

In a small bowl:
1. Combine cane sugar and ground cinnamon.
2. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of dough, roll it into a ball in your hands, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
3. Place on the prepared baking sheet and use the back of a round tablespoon to indent each ball gently.
4. Fill each indentation with about 1/2 tablespoon of apple butter.
5. Sprinkle turbinado sugar over each filled center.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake cookies spaced 2-3 inches apart for about 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

These delightful Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat. The creamy texture complements the warm spices perfectly.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include these cookies on a dessert platter alongside brownies and mini cheesecakes. Their unique flavor will stand out among the other treats.

Warm from the Oven

• Serve cookies warm right out of the oven for an extra gooey center. The aroma will fill your kitchen and entice everyone to indulge immediately.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with a cup of hot coffee or herbal tea. The spices in the cookie beautifully enhance the flavors of your beverage.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches. Choose vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an added flavor boost.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, consider these helpful tips. Small adjustments can lead to delightful outcomes!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure that both butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
• Measure flour correctly – Avoid packing flour into your measuring cup. Instead, spoon it into the cup and level it off for accurate measurements.
• Chill the dough – If time allows, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading, yielding thicker cookies.
• Watch baking time closely – Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when removed from the oven.
• Store properly – To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some delightful options:

1. Cinnamon Apples – Warm cinnamon apples make a cozy side dish that echoes the spices in the cookies.
2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait – Layer vanilla yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
3. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar or creamy brie, pairs nicely with sweet cookies.
4. Pumpkin Spice Latte – This seasonal drink enhances the warm flavors of apple butter and cinnamon found in the cookies.
5. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of snickerdoodles.
6. Chocolate Fondue – Dip cookie pieces into rich chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat that adds another layer of flavor.
7. Spiced Chai Tea – Enjoy these cookies alongside spiced chai tea to amplify their warm spice notes.
8. Caramel Sauce – Drizzle caramel sauce over your cookies or serve it on the side for an extra touch of sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with recipes like Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Incorrect Ingredient Temperature: Using cold butter or cream cheese can affect the fluffiness. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
• Not Measuring Flour Properly: Too much flour can make your cookies dry. Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: If you don’t chill the dough, cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for perfect shape.
• Ignoring Oven Thermometer: Ovens can vary in temperature. Using an oven thermometer ensures your cookies bake at the right temperature for even results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-10 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping gently.

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 wonderfully! Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold its shape when baked.

How do I make my cookies chewier?

To achieve chewier cookies, try using more brown sugar than white sugar and underbake them slightly.

Can I substitute other spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg or pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a different flavor profile.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you prefer softer cookies.

Final Thoughts

Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall baking. They’re soft, chewy, and versatile; you can customize them with various spices or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Try this recipe today and enjoy these flavorful cookies with family and friends!