Cozy Autumn Delights (Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies)

Ah, the sweet scent of fall fills the air, and what better way to embrace the season than with a batch of Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies? These little gems are the epitome of autumn indulgence – soft, chewy, and swirled with warm spices and gooey apple butter center. Imagine biting into a cookie that’s perfectly crisp on the outside and irresistibly chewy on the inside, with a luscious, spiced apple butter surprise waiting for you! These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a hug in dessert form, ready to warm your heart and home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re in for a delightful experience with these cookies! Here’s why you’ll want to roll up your sleeves and get baking:

– Big, Bold Flavors: Each bite combines rich apple butter and aromatic spices for a flavor explosion that’s pure comfort.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, they’re sure to win over friends, family, and even the pickiest eaters!
– Flexible & Fast: Quick to whip up, you can have these cookies ready to enjoy in under an hour.
– Make-Ahead Magic: Dough can be prepared in advance and stored, letting you bake fresh treats whenever the craving strikes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get your aprons on because we’re diving into the heart of these delectable cookies! The ingredients are simple, yet they create a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Key flavor game-changers include creamy, dreamy cream cheese and luscious, spiced apple butter that takes these cookies to the next level.

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

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

The beauty of Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies is how easily they can be customized! Here are some fun variations to try:

– Go Gluten-Free: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
– Add Extra Protein: Stir in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and protein boost.
– Make it Spicier: Love a kick? Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of nutmeg to the dough for an unexpected twist.
– Swap the Dressing: Try using pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
– Colorful Additions: Toss in some dried cranberries or chopped apples to add texture and flavor!

How to Make Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies:

Step 1: Prep Your Space

Start by lining three baking sheets with parchment paper and preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). The sweet scent of cookies baking will soon fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Cream It Up

In a large mixing bowl (either with a stand mixer or a hand mixer), cream together the cool room temperature butter, cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses. Beat this beautiful mixture on low speed for about 3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Blend until combined, scraping the bowl again to catch any sneaky bits.

Step 4: Dry Ingredients Unite

Gently mix in the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and fine sea salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – we want soft, tender cookies!

Step 5: Roll with Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine the cane sugar and ground cinnamon. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until it’s entirely coated. Place the rolled cookie dough on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2-3 inches apart. Use the back of a round tablespoon to create a little indention in the center of each cookie.

Step 6: Fill with Apple Butter

Fill each indention with 1/2 tablespoon of that luscious apple butter and sprinkle a touch of turbinado sugar on top for added sweetness and crunch.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop those trays into the oven and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are perfectly set. Once done, let them cool on a wire rack, and then dive into the gooey goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Here are some pro tips to ensure you achieve cookie perfection:

– Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
– Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.
– Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies – they should be set at the edges but still soft in the center for that chewy goodness!
– Store Safely: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and softness.

How to Serve Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle a bit of extra cinnamon sugar or drape a swirl of caramel sauce over the cookies to elevate their presentation and flavor!

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of spiced cider or a rich hot chocolate for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter filled with seasonal treats!

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative! Serve these delightful cookies in cute individual cups, on a festive platter, or even pack them into lunchboxes for a sweet treat on-the-go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Trust me, they’ll stay soft and delicious!

Freezing

You can definitely freeze the cookie dough! Just scoop the dough into balls, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready for fresh cookies, bake straight from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy your cookies warm, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. They’ll be gooey and delightful, just like fresh out of the oven!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple butter?
Absolutely! Any brand or homemade apple butter will work wonders in this recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not particularly! The spices are lovely and warm but not spicy. If you want a kick, feel free to add some cayenne or extra cinnamon!

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare this in advance?
Sure! You can make the dough a day ahead and keep it chilled in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, the ultimate Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Cookies recipe that will make your fall baking dreams come true! With their soft, chewy texture and the comforting spice of apple butter, these cookies are sure to be a hit in your home. So grab your apron, embrace the season, and let the baking begin! Happy baking, friends! 🍏🍂✨