Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that fills your kitchen with the warm scent of fall, these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are just the ticket. They combine the classic flavors of snickerdoodles with the delightful twist of apple butter, creating soft and chewy cookies that are simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies promise to bring smiles and comfort.

What makes this recipe so special? It’s not just about the taste; it’s also about the memories created while baking. Picture yourself in the kitchen, rolling dough in cinnamon sugar, and filling each cookie with a luscious apple butter center. It’s a delightful experience that anyone can enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, these cookies come together quickly, even on your busiest days.
• Perfect for sharing: Great for gatherings, they are sure to impress friends and family with their unique flavor.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready!
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of soft cookie and gooey apple butter is pure comfort food bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies use simple, wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand. Each one contributes to the wonderful taste and texture of these delicious treats. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with these variations to make it your own:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Switch up the spices: Try adding nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
• Use different fillings: Instead of apple butter, consider using pumpkin puree or any other fruit spread you love.
• Make them mini: Roll smaller balls of dough for bite-sized cookie delights that are perfect for sharing.

How to Make Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Start by lining three baking sheets with parchment paper and preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick—trust me, it makes all the difference!

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, either using a stand mixer or a hand mixer, cream together the unsalted butter, cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses on low speed for about three minutes until light and fluffy. Scraping down the bowl helps ensure every bit is mixed well. This will create a rich base for your cookies.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, mix in the whole egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Again, remember to scrape down the bowl after mixing. This step adds moisture and flavor that really elevates your cookie dough!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tough cookies—nobody wants that!

Step 5: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine cane granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Scoop out two-tablespoon-sized balls of cookie dough into this mixture until fully coated. Place them on your prepared baking sheets and use a tablespoon’s back to create an indent in each ball. Fill this little well with half a tablespoon of apple butter and sprinkle some turbinado sugar on top.

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Bake your cookies spaced about two to three inches apart for about eight to twelve minutes or until the edges are set but still soft in the center. Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack before diving in! Enjoy every bite of these lovely Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Baking these cookies is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can make them even better!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, cream cheese, and eggs to room temperature helps them blend more smoothly, resulting in a creamier dough that bakes evenly.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined keeps your cookies soft and tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies due to gluten development.
• Chill your dough if necessary: If you find your dough is too sticky to handle after mixing, chilling it for about 30 minutes can make rolling the cookie balls much easier.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth in flavor. These spices complement apple butter beautifully and enhance the fall vibes.
• Bake in batches: If you’re making a large batch, bake the cookies in two or three separate batches to ensure they cook evenly without crowding the baking sheets.

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Presenting them nicely can elevate any gathering or cozy evening at home!

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Dust: A light dusting of cinnamon powder right before serving adds an aromatic touch that enhances the cookie’s flavor.
• Drizzle of Caramel Sauce: A thin drizzle of caramel sauce over the cookies can create an enticing visual while adding a sweet contrast to the spiced flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm cookies, offering a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Apple Crisp: This warm, fruity dessert complements the apple flavor in the cookies and makes for a comforting fall treat.
• Hot Apple Cider: Serve your cookies alongside a mug of hot apple cider for a cozy experience that captures the essence of fall.
• Coffee or Tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea provides a comforting beverage option that beautifully balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

Enjoy these delightful Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies during gatherings, as an afternoon snack, or simply as a warm treat on chilly evenings!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week or share them with family and friends.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Place frozen or refrigerated cookies on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy the gooey apple butter center!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful cookies!

Can I make Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies without cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce or additional butter for a different texture.

How long do Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Absolutely! Follow the freezing instructions above, and you can enjoy these cookies later without losing their delicious flavor.

What makes these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies special?

The combination of warm spices from the snickerdoodles and the gooey apple butter filling creates a comforting dessert that is perfect for fall!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies as much as I do! They bring warmth and sweetness to any gathering, making them truly special. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, I’m sure they’ll bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!