Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat that embody the essence of fall baking. With their soft, chewy texture and warm spice blend, they are perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence at home. The gooey apple butter center paired with a cinnamon sugar coating makes these cookies stand out among the rest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple butter and warm spices creates a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies can be whipped up quickly—even by novice bakers.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are great for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday parties, making them a crowd-pleaser.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a perfect balance of softness and chewiness, ensuring satisfaction with every cookie.
• Gooey Surprise: The hidden apple butter center adds an unexpected twist that elevates the traditional snickerdoodle.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, having the right tools will make your baking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Saves time and ensures consistent mixing for creamy batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measuring ingredients is key to achieving the perfect cookie texture.

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 Butter Mixture

In a large bowl of a stand mixer or with a hand mixer:
1. Combine the unsalted butter, cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses.
2. Mix on low speed for about three minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in:
1. One large egg,
2. One egg yolk,
3. One teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Scrape down the bowl again to ensure everything is well mixed.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Mix in:
1. Two cups of all-purpose flour,
2. Two teaspoons of baking powder,
3. Half a teaspoon of cream of tartar,
4. Half a teaspoon of fine sea salt.

Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl:
1. Combine one-third cup of cane granulated sugar with two teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
Set aside for rolling the cookie dough balls.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Scoop out two tablespoons of cookie dough:
1. Roll into balls in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
2. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Use the back of a round tablespoon to create an indent in each ball.
4. Fill each indent with half a tablespoon of apple butter.
5. Sprinkle turbinado sugar on top.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for:
8–12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft. Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks before enjoying!

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These delicious Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, the creaminess of milk complements the soft, chewy texture of the cookies perfectly.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful dessert treat that melts in your mouth.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and makes these cookies even more indulgent.

At a Fall Gathering

• Present these cookies at your next autumn party or gathering; they will surely be a crowd favorite alongside other seasonal treats.

As a Gift

• Package them in a cute box or tin to share the joy of baking with friends and family during the holiday season.

Dipped in Hot Chocolate

• Enjoy these cookies dipped in a warm mug of hot chocolate for a cozy evening snack that warms you from the inside out.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

To ensure your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smooth dough and ensures even mixing.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to maintain the chewy texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough: If possible, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; remove them when the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked for a gooey center.
• Adjust Cinnamon Sugar Ratio: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon sugar coating according to your taste preference; more cinnamon can add extra warmth.
• Store Properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and softness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies can create a delightful spread. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte: The warm spices in this drink harmonize beautifully with the flavors of apple butter.
2. Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the cinnamon in snickerdoodles perfectly.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses balances the sweetness of the cookies and offers variety.
4. Spiced Apple Cider: Hot spiced apple cider brings out the apple flavor while enhancing that cozy fall vibe.
5. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances rich cookie flavors, making it refreshing.
6. Pecan Pie Bars: For those who love desserts, these bars provide another sweet option without being overpowering.
7. Caramelized Pears: These sweet, warm pears pair wonderfully with snickerdoodles and make for an elegant side dish.
8. Whipped Cream Dip: A light whipped cream dip can enhance the experience, offering a creamy element alongside each bite of cookie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking apple butter snickerdoodle cookies can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can prevent the cookie dough from mixing well. Always use ingredients at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Overpacking flour can make cookies dry and dense. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you don’t chill the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Allowing the dough to chill helps maintain their shape.
• Overbaking the cookies: Leaving cookies in the oven too long can make them hard instead of chewy. Keep an eye on them and remove them when edges are just set.
• Ignoring the rolling technique: Ensure each cookie is evenly coated in cinnamon sugar. This enhances flavor and appearance, giving you that classic snickerdoodle look.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store apple butter snickerdoodle cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use homemade apple butter?

You can absolutely use homemade apple butter! It adds a personal touch and unique flavor to your cookies.

How do I make my apple butter snickerdoodle cookies chewier?

To achieve chewier cookies, try adding an extra egg yolk or reducing the baking time slightly.

What spices work well with these cookies?

Apart from cinnamon, consider adding nutmeg or ginger for additional warmth and flavor in your apple butter snickerdoodle cookies.

Can I substitute cream cheese?

You can replace cream cheese with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a different twist, but it may alter the texture slightly.

How should I store leftover apple butter snickerdoodle cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These apple butter snickerdoodle cookies are not just delicious; they capture the essence of fall in every bite. Their soft texture combined with warm spices makes them perfect for any gathering. Feel free to customize with nuts or chocolate chips for added excitement!