Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are the perfect treat for fall baking. With their soft and chewy texture, swirled with warm spices, they bring cozy vibes to any occasion. The gooey apple butter center and the delightful cinnamon-sugar coating make them utterly irresistible. Whether for a family gathering, potluck, or a simple afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The combination of apple butter and spices creates a rich, comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
• Soft and Chewy Texture – These cookies are perfectly soft and chewy, making them a delight to bite into.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up these tasty cookies with ease.
• Versatile Treat – Perfect for holidays or everyday snacking, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Gooey Center – The apple butter filling adds a unique twist that sets these snickerdoodles apart from traditional recipes.

Tools and Preparation

To bake your delicious Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, gather the essential tools listed below. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

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 – Essential for creaming ingredients together, ensuring a light and fluffy cookie dough.
• Mixing bowls – Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Parchment paper – Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy removal after baking.

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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 the Cookies

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

For Filling the Cookies

• 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 Ingredients

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.
2. Mix on low speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Mix in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract.
2. Once again, scrape down the bowl.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt.
2. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

1. In a small bowl, combine the remaining granulated sugar with ground cinnamon.
2. Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
3. Place it on your prepared baking sheet, then use a round tablespoon’s back to create an indent in each cookie.
4. Fill each indent with about 1/2 tablespoon of apple butter, sprinkling turbinado sugar on top.

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Bake your cookies spaced about 2-3 inches apart 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

These delightful apple butter snickerdoodle cookies are perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Chocolate: Pair these cookies with a mug of rich hot chocolate for a comforting treat.
• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai complement the flavors of the snickerdoodles beautifully.
• Coffee: Enjoying these cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee creates a perfect morning or afternoon snack.

As Dessert

• With Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies alongside vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• On a Dessert Platter: Arrange them on a platter with other fall-themed treats like pumpkin spice muffins or apple cider donuts.

For Parties and Gatherings

• At Bake Sales: These cookies make great additions to bake sales, attracting those looking for unique flavors.
• As Party Favors: Package them in cute bags for guests to take home as a tasty reminder of your event.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Perfecting your apple butter snickerdoodle cookies can make all the difference. Follow these tips for the best results:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, egg, and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing for better incorporation.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
• Chill the Dough if Necessary: If your dough feels too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Keep an eye on the cookies during baking; they should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your apple butter snickerdoodle cookies can create an unforgettable dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Crispy Apple Slices: Fresh, crunchy apples bring out the flavors of apple butter while adding a refreshing contrast.
2. Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses can enhance the sweetness of the cookies; consider cheddar or Brie.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup adds comfort and complements the spices in the cookies perfectly.
4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide crunch and balance out the sweetness with their savory notes.
5. Caramel Dip: A small bowl of caramel dip offers an extra layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with these cookies.
6. Whipped Cream Topping: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can serve as a delightful accompaniment when served with ice cream or on its own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking apple butter snickerdoodle cookies can be fun, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here’s how to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a softer texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much or too little flour can ruin your cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurement.
• Skipping the chill time: Rushing this step can affect the cookie’s shape and texture. Allow the dough to chill in the fridge if you notice it’s too soft.
• Underbaking: If you take them out too early, they may be raw inside. Aim for a slight golden edge; they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is accurate for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm the cookies covered for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about apple butter snickerdoodle cookies that might help you while baking.

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Yes! Homemade apple butter works wonderfully and adds a personal touch to your apple butter snickerdoodle cookies.

How do I make my apple butter snickerdoodle cookies chewier?

To enhance chewiness, consider using more brown sugar than granulated sugar in your recipe.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with an equal amount of Greek yogurt or additional unsalted butter for similar results.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour when making apple butter snickerdoodle cookies.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, apple butter snickerdoodle cookies can last up to a week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These apple butter snickerdoodle cookies are not only soft and chewy but also infused with delightful fall flavors. Their versatility allows them to be customized with various spices or toppings, ensuring every batch is unique. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the cozy warmth they bring!