Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than these Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies. These little gems combine the warm, comforting flavors of apple pie with the soft, sweet goodness of a cookie. They’re not only fun to make but also a joy to share with family and friends. Whether you need a special dessert for a gathering or just want to indulge in something sweet after dinner, these cookies will hit the spot!

What makes my Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies special is the combination of cozy spices and creamy apple butter filling. They are great for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, they can easily be made ahead of time, making them an ideal option for meal prep or holiday treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies are perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These sweet treats are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and store them in an airtight container; they stay fresh for days!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple butter and spices creates a comforting taste that will remind you of home-baked goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! These Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies use simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• ¾ cup (170 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (220 grams) firmly packed dark brown sugar
• ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (50 grams), room temperature
• ½ teaspoon (2 grams) vanilla extract
• 2¼ cups (281 grams) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (6 grams) kosher salt
• 1½ teaspoons (3 grams) apple pie spice
• 1 teaspoon (2 grams) ground cinnamon
• ¾ teaspoon (3.75 grams) baking soda
• ½ teaspoon (2 grams) cream of tartar
• Turbinado sugar, for rolling
• Apple Butter Buttercream (recipe follows)
• ¼ cup (75 grams) apple butter

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can make it your own by trying out different flavor profiles or adjustments. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for added crunch.
• Swap the Spice: Experiment with other spices like ginger or nutmeg to give your cookies a unique twist.
• Change the Filling: Instead of apple butter, try using pumpkin puree or your favorite fruit preserves for a different flavor.
• Make Them Mini: Use a smaller scoop to create bite-sized versions that are perfect for sharing at parties.

How to Make Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Start by lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

Step 2: Cream Together the Butters and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the softened unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar at medium speed until light and fluffy—about three to four minutes. Remember to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. This mixing step is crucial as it incorporates air into your mixture, leading to soft and chewy cookies.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in one large egg and half a teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined. This adds moisture and flavor—two key components in creating delicious cookies!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together two-and-a-quarter cups of all-purpose flour, two teaspoons kosher salt, one-and-a-half teaspoons apple pie spice, one teaspoon ground cinnamon, three-fourths of a teaspoon baking soda, and half a teaspoon cream of tartar. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your cookies tender!

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Using a spring-loaded scoop (about one-and-a-half tablespoons), scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in turbinado sugar before placing them on your prepared pans about one-and-a-half to two inches apart. Refrigerate these cookie dough balls for at least thirty minutes; this helps them hold their shape while baking.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfectly Soft

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the cookies until their edges are set but their centers remain slightly soft—this should take about thirteen to sixteen minutes. Let them cool on the pans for twenty minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Assemble Your Sandwiches

Once cooled, place your Apple Butter Buttercream in a pastry bag fitted with a round piping tip. Pipe a border onto the flat side of half of your cookies, then spoon about one teaspoon of apple butter into the center before topping with another cookie flat side down. Place them in an airtight container in your fridge where they will stay fresh for up to three days.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these scrumptious Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies! Each bite is bound to bring warmth and comfort—perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Baking these delicious Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your butter and egg to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a light and fluffy dough, leading to the perfect cookie texture.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes ensures that the cookies hold their shape while baking. It also enhances the flavors, making each bite more delightful.
• Don’t overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until they come together. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of tender ones.
• Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary significantly in temperature. It’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer to ensure precise baking, as this will help you avoid overbaking or underbaking your cookies.
• Experiment with apple butter: If you have different types of apple butter on hand, feel free to try them out! Each variety can add its unique flavor profile, making your sandwich cookies even more special.

How to Serve Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, serving them with a few thoughtful touches will elevate the experience!

Garnishes

• Dust with powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes your cookies look extra inviting.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce: For an indulgent twist, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible!

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the spiced apple flavor perfectly and makes for a comforting dessert.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balance, making it a great accompaniment to the rich cookies.
• Spiced chai tea: Cozy up with a cup of spiced chai tea for a warm pairing that enhances the autumnal flavors of the apple butter.
• Pumpkin soup: For an unexpected twist, serve these cookies alongside a warm pumpkin soup. The savory notes pair well with sweet treats!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful treat to enjoy throughout the week. You can bake them ahead of time and store them for later, ensuring you always have a sweet bite ready when cravings strike.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover sandwich cookies in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a softer cookie, add a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture.

Freezing

• To freeze, layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

• To reheat, place cookies on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Allow them to cool slightly before serving for that fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies.

Can I use different spices in my Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Nutmeg or ginger can add a lovely warmth if you want something different.

How should I store Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies?

Store your Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best texture and flavor.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for better structure.

What goes well with Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee! They also go great with a scoop of vanilla non-dairy ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Your Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are done when the edges are set, but the center is still slightly soft. This ensures they remain chewy and delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delectable Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies! They capture the essence of cozy baking and bring warmth into any gathering or quiet afternoon. Whether you share them with friends or savor them solo, they’re sure to bring a smile. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s truly special!