Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These cookies blend the classic snickerdoodle flavor with the warm, rich essence of apple butter, creating a unique dessert that’s ideal for fall gatherings, cozy evenings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With their soft texture and gooey center, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple butter and warm spices creates a cookie that’s bursting with flavor.
• Soft & Chewy Texture: Each bite provides a satisfying chewiness that melts in your mouth.
• Quick to Make: With just 45 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies ready to enjoy in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 27 cookies, they’re great for parties, potlucks, or holiday gift-giving.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later—these cookies stay delicious!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these tasty apple butter snickerdoodles, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients for a fluffy batter.
• Baking sheets: Provide an even surface for baking multiple cookies at once.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

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!

• 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
• 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) and line three baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Butters

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses using a stand mixer or hand mixer on low speed for about three minutes until light and fluffy. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in one large egg, one egg yolk, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined. Scrape down the bowl again to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in two cups of all-purpose flour, two teaspoons of baking powder, half a teaspoon of cream of tartar, and half a teaspoon of fine sea salt until just combined.

Step 5: Prepare Cookie Dough Balls

In a small bowl, combine one-third cup cane granulated sugar with two teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Using a cookie scoop, form two-tablespoon-sized balls from the dough. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until completely coated.

Step 6: Indent and Fill

Place each coated dough ball on the prepared baking sheets about two to three inches apart. Use the back of a round tablespoon to create an indent in each ball. Fill this indent with half a tablespoon of apple butter and sprinkle turbinado sugar on top.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for eight to twelve minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft. Allow cooling on wire racks before enjoying!

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These delightful Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, serving them right can make all the difference.

With a Warm Drink

• Coffee: Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of coffee to balance the sweetness.
• Chai Latte: The spices in chai complement the flavors of apple butter beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these cookies alongside rich hot chocolate for a cozy treat.

At a Gathering

• Dessert Platter: Arrange the cookies on a platter with other seasonal treats for an inviting display.
• Cookie Bar: Set up a cookie bar with toppings like whipped cream and caramel for guests to customize their treats.
• Party Favors: Wrap individual cookies in clear bags tied with twine as charming party favors.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: Enhance the flavors by pairing with cinnamon ice cream for added spice.

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How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Achieving the perfect batch of Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor and texture.
• Proper Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly; using an oven thermometer can help verify accuracy.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be golden around the edges but soft in the center when done.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses complements the sweetness of the cookies nicely.
2. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy contrast that balances the softness of the cookies.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad enhances freshness and cuts through the richness of the cookies.
4. Pumpkin Pie Dip: This creamy dip pairs perfectly, bringing extra fall flavors to your dessert table.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies or serve it on the side for dipping.
6. Whipped Cream Cheese Dip: A rich dip adds creaminess that pairs well with apple butter flavors.
7. Gingerbread Crumble Topping: Sprinkle this topping over each cookie for added texture and spice.
8. Apple Cider Donuts: Keep up with the apple theme by serving these alongside your snickerdoodles for an irresistible spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making apple butter snickerdoodle cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or cream cheese can lead to a dense texture. Always ensure your butter and cream cheese are at cool room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make cookies tough instead of soft. Combine ingredients until just mixed for the best texture.
• Incorrect measuring of flour: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it in, leading to dry cookies. Use a spoon to fill your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. Allow the cookie dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Baking on an unprepared sheet: Cookies can stick or burn if not baked on parchment paper. Always line your baking sheets for easy removal and cleanup.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about apple butter snickerdoodle cookies.

Can I use homemade apple butter in apple butter snickerdoodle cookies?

Yes, homemade apple butter can add a personal touch and unique flavor to your cookies! Just ensure it’s not too watery.

How do I achieve the perfect chewy texture in my apple butter snickerdoodle cookies?

To keep your cookies chewy, avoid overbaking them. Bake just until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underdone.

What is the best way to store apple butter snickerdoodle cookies?

Storing your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerating them will help maintain their freshness.

Can I substitute other spices for the cinnamon?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg, allspice, or pumpkin pie spice for different flavor profiles in your apple butter snickerdoodle cookies.

Final Thoughts

These apple butter snickerdoodle cookies bring warmth and comfort, perfect for fall baking. Their soft, chewy texture paired with gooey apple butter makes them irresistible. Customize these delightful treats by adding nuts or drizzling with caramel sauce. Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!