Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, then these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are just the thing! They are soft, chewy, and bursting with warm spices, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just to enjoy during a quiet afternoon at home, these cookies will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas and happy memories.

What makes this recipe truly special is the gooey apple butter center that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon sugar coating. Each bite feels like a hug from the inside out! So grab your apron and let’s dive into these wonderful cookies that are bound to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip these up.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves snickerdoodles! These cookies will be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and store them for when cravings strike!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple butter and cinnamon creates an irresistible taste that screams comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Baking should be fun and stress-free! For these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, we’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need:

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
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Filling

• 3/4 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter
• 4 tablespoons turbinado sugar

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor twist.
• Chocolate Delight: Swirl in some mini chocolate chips along with the apple butter.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Start by lining three baking sheets with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures even baking and prevents sticking—no one likes cookies that cling to the tray!

Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients

In a large bowl of a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, cream together the butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses for about three minutes on low speed until light and fluffy. Scraping down the bowl halfway through helps mix everything evenly!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in your room-temperature egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. This adds moisture and flavor to your dough. Remember to scrape down the sides again so every bit gets incorporated well!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gently mix in the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and fine sea salt until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough—this keeps our cookies soft and chewy.

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

In a small bowl, combine cane sugar and ground cinnamon. Scoop about two tablespoons of cookie dough into this mixture, rolling it around until fully coated. Place each ball on your prepared baking sheets. Use the back of a round tablespoon to create an indent in each cookie’s center. Fill this little pocket with half a tablespoon of apple butter before sprinkling with turbinado sugar—a sweet little touch!

Step 6: Bake & Enjoy!

Bake the cookies spaced about 2-3 inches apart for 8-12 minutes or until you see the edges set. Let them cool completely on wire racks before enjoying! Each bite will remind you why this Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies recipe is such a cherished favorite. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies can be a breeze with just a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smoother dough and improves the overall texture of the cookies.
• Measure flour accurately: Spoon your flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents overpacking and ensures your cookies don’t turn out too dense.
• Chill the dough if necessary: If your kitchen is warm or you notice the dough is too soft, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can make it easier to handle.
• Don’t skip the turbinado sugar: Sprinkling turbinado sugar on top before baking adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie texture.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to your cinnamon sugar mixture for an extra layer of fall flavor that complements the apple butter perfectly.

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any gathering! Serve them fresh from the oven or display them on a beautiful platter for special occasions.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top adds a lovely aroma and enhances the flavors.
• Drizzle of caramel sauce: A thin drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce creates an indulgent touch and pairs wonderfully with apple flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm cookies, creating a classic dessert pairing.
• Pumpkin spice latte: Enjoying these cookies alongside a cozy pumpkin spice latte amplifies the fall vibes and makes for a comforting snack.
• Autumn fruit platter: A mix of sliced apples, pears, and grapes brings freshness to your dessert spread while complementing the apple butter in the cookies.
• Chai tea: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the flavors of these snickerdoodles, making it a perfect beverage choice.

Now that you’re equipped with some pro tips and serving ideas, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy these scrumptious Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a delightful treat for busy days or surprise guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze the cookie dough balls before baking for up to 3 months.
• To freeze, arrange the dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• You can also freeze baked cookies; just ensure they’re cooled and stored in an airtight container.

Reheating

• For frozen cookie dough, bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time.
• To reheat baked cookies, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F/180°C for about 5 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies!

Can I use homemade apple butter for these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Absolutely! Homemade apple butter works wonderfully in this recipe and can add a personal touch.

What makes these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies so special?

The combination of apple butter and warm spices creates a soft and chewy cookie that’s perfect for fall. They’re not only delicious but also bring comfort with every bite.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Yes! You can swap the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar, or replace molasses with maple syrup if desired.

How do I know when my Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are done baking?

Look for set edges and a slightly soft center—this will ensure they remain chewy once cooled!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies as much as I do! They embody the cozy essence of fall with their spiced flavor and gooey center. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them during quiet moments, they are sure to bring warmth to your home. Happy baking!