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Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Recipe By:
Jesseca
Posted:
Updated:

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Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Imagine soft, chewy cookies bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon and apple, perfectly balanced with a touch of creaminess. This recipe not only merges two beloved desserts—snickerdoodles and apple butter—but also invites a cozy, homemade vibe into your kitchen. As you mix, roll, and bake, you’ll find yourself smiling, thinking of family gatherings and chilly evenings. There’s something heartwarming about homemade cookies, and when they come with the rich taste of apple butter, it’s like a hug in cookie form!

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and let your kitchen fill with the aromas of baked goodness. Whether you’re making these cookies for a special occasion, an afternoon treat, or just to enjoy on your own, I promise they won’t disappoint. Let’s get started on creating some unforgettable Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies that will surely become a new favorite!

Why This Recipe Works

This Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies recipe combines the classic elements of snickerdoodles with the unique flavors of apple butter. The secret to the perfect cookie lies in the balance of ingredients. Cream cheese adds richness and a soft texture, while apple butter ensures moisture and a hint of fruity sweetness. Using both granulated and brown sugar rounds out the flavor, giving the cookies a delightful caramel undertone. Additionally, the spices in this recipe enhance the aroma and taste, creating an irresistibly fragrant treat.

When it comes to baking, the technique also matters! Creaming the butter and sugars thoroughly ensures the cookies are light and fluffy. Incorporating the dry ingredients carefully prevents overmixing, leading to that perfect chewy texture we all love. This recipe also emphasizes a quick bake time, keeping those centers soft and irresistible. Overall, it’s the thoughtful combination of flavors and techniques that makes these cookies stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

  • Unique Flavor: The apple butter infuses a delightful twist, making these cookies unlike any other snickerdoodle you’ve tried.
  • Easy to Make: With simple, accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, baking becomes a stress-free joy.
  • Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are fantastic for gatherings, as they appeal to all ages, making them a wonderful treat for any event.
  • Versatile: Enjoy them as a cozy snack, a dessert treat, or as a thoughtful homemade gift—there are countless ways to enjoy these cookies.

Ingredients for Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

To create these warm, delicious cookies, here’s what you’ll need:

  • 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, at 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, at room temperature
  • 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 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

Preparing the Dough

Cream the Butters and Sugars

Start by lining three baking sheets with parchment paper. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large bowl, or using a stand mixer, cream the cool butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses together. Use low speed for about three minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything mixes evenly.

Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined, making sure to scrape the bowl occasionally. This step is crucial to ensure the eggs are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt. Mix until everything is just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough. Overmixing may lead to tough cookies, and we want them soft and tender!

Rolling and Preparing the Cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine the cane sugar and ground cinnamon. This mixture adds an extra layer of flavor and a lovely crunch to your cookies.

Form the Cookies

Now comes the fun part! Scoop a 2-tablespoon-sized ball of cookie dough and roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. Place the dough ball on one of your prepared baking sheets. Use the back of a rounded tablespoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill this indentation with half a tablespoon of apple butter, and top it off with a sprinkle of turbinado sugar for added texture.

Baking the Cookies

Bake to Perfection

Pop those cookies into the oven and bake for about 8-12 minutes. Keep them spaced 2-3 inches apart, so they have room to spread. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set but the centers still look a little soft. This will keep that lovely chewy texture! Once out of the oven, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before diving in.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve your freshly baked cookies warm, perhaps paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
  • Enjoy with a hot cup of apple cider or your favorite coffee blend to enhance the cozy experience.
  • These cookies are splendid for autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or even as a thoughtful gift during the holiday season.

Tips for Success

  • Make sure all your cold ingredients, like the butter and cream cheese, are at room temperature. This will lead to easier mixing and a better dough consistency.
  • Keep an eye on your cookies; avoid overbaking for that perfect chewy finish. They should be soft when you remove them from the oven.
  • If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different types of apple butter for a unique twist on the flavor!

Variations

  • For a seasonal twist, substitute pumpkin puree for the apple butter, creating delightful pumpkin snickerdoodles.
  • Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch and extra flavor in every bite.
  • Change up the spices for a different flavor profile; try nutmeg or allspice to add a warm depth.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh when you’re ready.

2. How should I store the cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for freshness.

3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, roll into balls, freeze them on a tray, and then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, you can pop them directly from the freezer into the oven, just adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

4. Can I use a different type of sugar?
Definitely! You can use brown sugar for a richer flavor or coconut sugar as a healthier substitute.

5. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt if needed, but keep in mind the texture will be slightly different and it might require a bit more sugar.

Baking these Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies not only fills the house with warm scents but also creates moments of joy and satisfaction. Enjoy the process, share with others, and watch as these cookies become a beloved part of your baking repertoire!

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Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

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These cookies combine classic snickerdoodle flavors with the warm essence of apple butter, creating a delightful, chewy treat perfect for any gathering.

  • Total Time: 32 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, at 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, at room temperature
  • 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 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

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Cream unsalted butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Gradually mix in flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt until combined.
  • Combine cane sugar and cinnamon in a bowl.
  • Scoop 2-tablespoon balls of dough, roll in cinnamon-sugar, and place on baking sheets.
  • Create an indentation in each cookie, fill with apple butter, and top with turbinado sugar.
  • Bake for 8-12 minutes until edges are set and centers look slightly soft.
  • Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

Notes

Ensure all cold ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Avoid overbaking to maintain the chewy texture of the cookies.
Experiment with different types of apple butter for varied flavors.

  • Author: Jesseca
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 12
  • Sodium: 130
  • Fat: 7
  • Saturated Fat: 4
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 27
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 2
  • Cholesterol: 25

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