Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious treat to warm your heart and home this fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are not just cookies; they’re little bites of autumn magic. With a soft and chewy texture, they are swirled with warm spices and filled with gooey apple butter that oozes comfort. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these cookies will become a favorite in no time!

What makes these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies so special is their delightful combination of flavors and textures. The cinnamon sugar coating adds a sweet crunch, while the apple butter center brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute cravings or planned baking days.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these cookies; they’re a hit at every gathering!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you need them—ideal for busy schedules.
• Deliciously unique: The apple butter filling sets these snickerdoodles apart from the crowd, giving them an irresistible flavor twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To bake these scrumptious Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies, you’ll want some simple and wholesome ingredients. Gather the following items and get ready to delight your taste buds!

For the Cookie Base:

• 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

For the Dry Ingredients:

• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use different spices: Experiment with pumpkin pie spice or ginger for a different seasonal twist.
• Try different fillings: Substitute apple butter with other fruit butters like peach or pear for a unique taste.
• Make them smaller: Roll out mini cookie dough balls for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing.

How to Make Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by lining three baking sheets with parchment paper. Preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Cream Together the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream together the unsalted butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses on low speed for about three minutes until light and fluffy. Don’t skip this step—it’s crucial! It creates air pockets that make your cookies soft and chewy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, mix in one whole egg, one egg yolk, and vanilla extract into the creamy mixture. This adds richness to the dough and enhances its flavor. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gently add in the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those lovely cookies to stay soft!

Step 5: Roll into Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine cane sugar and ground cinnamon. Scoop out about two tablespoons of cookie dough into this mixture and roll it until fully coated. Place each ball on your prepared baking sheet about 2-3 inches apart. Use a tablespoon’s back to create an indent in each cookie—this is where all that luscious apple butter will go!

Step 6: Fill with Apple Butter

Now comes the fun part! Fill each indent with half a tablespoon of Musselman’s Apple Butter and sprinkle some turbinado sugar on top for extra sweetness.

Step 7: Bake Them Up!

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 8-12 minutes or until their edges are set but still soft in the middle. Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire cooling rack before enjoying these delightful treats!

Get ready to enjoy these delightful Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies—they’re sure to bring smiles all around!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies is a breeze with just a few simple tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, cream cheese, and eggs to room temperature helps create a smooth, even batter that results in soft, chewy cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents the cookies from becoming tough. Overworking the dough can lead to a denser texture than desired.
• Adjust baking time based on your oven: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; ovens can vary, so start checking them at the lower end of the suggested baking time for perfect edges.
• Cool completely before storing: Allowing the cookies to cool fully on a wire rack ensures they maintain their shape and texture when stored. This also helps prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Experiment with apple butter flavors: Don’t be afraid to try different brands or flavors of apple butter! Each variety can add its unique twist on taste and enhance your cookie experience.

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These apple butter snickerdoodle cookies are not only delicious but also look beautiful when served. Here are some ideas to present them in style!

Garnishes

• Dust with additional cinnamon sugar: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar over the top of each cookie just before serving adds an extra touch of sweetness and spice.
• Serve with fresh apple slices: Pairing your cookies with crisp apple slices enhances the flavor profile and adds a refreshing crunch that complements the rich, gooey center.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that balances the warm spices of the cookies with its cool, smooth texture—perfect for an indulgent treat!
• Chai or spiced tea: This warming beverage pairs beautifully with the flavors in your cookies, creating a cozy experience that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
• Pumpkin soup: The earthy flavors of pumpkin soup provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. It’s a comforting combination that works wonderfully for chilly evenings.
• Cheese platter: Include some mild cheeses like brie or gouda alongside crackers and fruits. The rich flavors will complement your snickerdoodles, making for an inviting snack spread.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies will not only taste amazing but also impress everyone at your gathering! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily bake a batch ahead of time, store them for later, and enjoy their delightful flavors anytime you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze the cookies, ensure they are fully cooled first.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, remove the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and place the cookies on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies!

Can I use a different type of butter in Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Yes! You can substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter or margarine if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just make sure it’s soft and at room temperature.

What makes these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies so special?

These cookies combine the classic flavors of snickerdoodles with rich apple butter, creating a deliciously chewy texture and warm cinnamon taste that’s perfect for fall!

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

The edges should be set but the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies as much as I do! The combination of soft, chewy cookie dough and gooey apple butter filling is simply irresistible. Whether you share them with friends or keep them all to yourself (no judgment here!), these cookies are sure to brighten your day. Happy baking!