As the leaves begin to turn golden and the air fills with the scent of cinnamon and spice, there’s a certain comfort that comes with fall baking. This season, I discovered a delightful twist on a classic favorite: Apple Butter Snickerdoodles. Imagine soft, chewy cookies rolling in a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, only to reveal a gooey apple butter center that transports you straight to grandma’s kitchen.
Having spent years perfecting cookie recipes, this one stands out for its simplicity and rich flavor—ideal for cozy gatherings or a sweet treat to unwind after a long day. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just dipping your toes into the world of cookies, these snickerdoodles are as easy to make as they are delicious. So, let’s dive into this perfect autumn-inspired recipe that’s bound to please everyone around your table!
Why are Apple Butter Snickerdoodles a must-try?
Irresistible Warmth: These cookies capture the comforting essence of fall with their soft, chewy texture and gooey apple butter center.
Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for any baker, from beginners to pros.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family gathering or a coffee date, these snickerdoodles are sure to impress!
Versatile Flavor: The delicious apple and cinnamon combination brings warmth to any occasion.
Time-Saving Treat: Bake them in just 12 minutes, allowing you to enjoy freshly-made cookies in no time!
Make these delightful treats and pair them with a cup of hot apple cider for the ultimate fall experience!
Apple Butter Snickerdoodle Ingredients
• Discover the essential components for your delicious Apple Butter Snickerdoodles!
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s at cool room temperature for best results.
- Cold Full-Fat Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and a slight tang; avoid swapping for low-fat versions.
- Granulated Sugar – The primary sweetener that supports cookie structure.
- Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and deeper flavor from its molasses content.
- Unsulphured Molasses – Enhances flavor with caramel notes; steer clear of sugar-free alternatives.
- Large Eggs (and Egg Yolk) – Binds the ingredients and texture; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – The main structure-building ingredient; measure accurately for a perfect dough.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for fluffy cookies.
- Cream of Tartar – Stabilizes dough while adding to the classic snickerdoodle flavor.
- Fine Sea Salt – Enhances overall flavor; a critical element to balance sweetness.
For the Coating
- Cane Granulated Sugar and Ground Cinnamon – Creates a delicious hint of spice as a coating.
For the Filling
- Musselman’s Apple Butter – Provides a gooey center with rich apple flavor; avoid using sugar-free types as they do not melt properly.
How to Make Apple Butter Snickerdoodles
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Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (180°C). Don’t forget to line three baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Cream Together: In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter, cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses together at low speed for about 3 minutes. Aim for a light and fluffy consistency that looks creamy.
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Add Eggs & Vanilla: Incorporate the large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract into the mixture. Mix well until everything is combined, and be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to catch all that goodness.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and fine sea salt. Mix just until combined; over-mixing can affect the cookie’s softness.
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Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Roll two-tablespoon-sized balls of dough in this mixture until they are fully coated.
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Fill with Apple Butter: Create a small indentation in the center of each dough ball. Generously fill it with Musselman’s apple butter, ensuring each cookie has that delicious gooey center. Sprinkle the tops with turbinado sugar for added sweetness and crunch.
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Bake the Cookies: Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly cracked. Allow cookies to cool on wire racks before indulging.
Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Apple Butter Snickerdoodles Variations
Feel free to get creative with these comforting cookies; there are so many delicious possibilities waiting for you!
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Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to add a delightful crunch and added richness to each bite.
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Spices: Enhance your snickerdoodles by including a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a warm, aromatic kick that pairs beautifully with apple.
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Chocolate Chips: Stir in semisweet or white chocolate chips for a delicious contrast to the warm spice and gooey apple butter center. Chocolate lovers will rejoice!
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Oatmeal: Incorporate rolled oats into the dough for an extra chewy texture that’s reminiscent of classic oatmeal cookies.
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Pumpkin Spice: Embrace fall’s flavors by mixing in pumpkin spice blend instead of cinnamon for an intriguing twist on this classic recipe.
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Coconut Flakes: Add sweetened or unsweetened coconut flakes for a chewy texture and tropical flair that brightens each bite.
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Dulce de Leche: Swap out apple butter for a dollop of dulce de leche in the center for a caramel-infused cookie that’s sinfully indulgent.
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Chili Powder: For a surprising kick, sprinkle a hint of chili powder in the sugar coating to create a sweet and spicy flavor profile that keeps everyone guessing.
What to Serve with Apple Butter Snickerdoodles?
Enjoy a cozy gathering with these delightful cookies as the star of the show, complemented by treats that enhance their comforting flavors.
- Hot Apple Cider: The warm spices in apple cider beautifully enhance the sweet apple flavor of the snickerdoodles.
- Coffee: A rich, flavorful brew balances the sweetness, making it the perfect pairing for afternoon indulgence.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures, creating a cozy dessert experience.
- Cinnamon Toast Crunch: Sprinkle over your snickerdoodles for added crunch and a flavor boost that echoes the cookie’s own cinnamon notes.
- Pecan Pie Bars: This nutty fall classic adds a contrasting texture and flavor that compliments the soft, chewy cookies.
- Spiced Nuts: A mix of roasted almonds and pecans with cinnamon complements the cookie’s spices and provides a delightful crunch.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Pairing with a luscious latte brings the comforting essence of fall to your snack time.
- Cheddar Cheese: A sharp cheddar offers a savory counterpoint, enhancing the sweet and spice profile of the snickerdoodles.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness that enhances their gooey apple butter center.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Butter Snickerdoodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance, ensuring you have fresh cookies whenever you desire. To prep ahead, simply mix the dough according to the recipe, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and chill. Additionally, you can roll the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; just remember to fill each indentation with apple butter before baking. When you’re ready to indulge, bake the frozen cookies straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time for delicious, warm treats that’ll amaze your family and friends!
Expert Tips for Apple Butter Snickerdoodles
- Butter Consistency: Ensure your butter is at cool room temperature (64–67°F) for optimal creaming; this results in a lighter texture for your snickerdoodles.
- Egg Temperature: Use room temperature eggs for better integration into the dough, which promotes a soft, even texture.
- Mixing Technique: Be cautious not to over-mix the dry ingredients; simply combine until incorporated to maintain that soft, chewy quality.
- Indentation Depth: Make sure to create a sufficiently deep indentation for the apple butter, as it will melt into a lovely gooey center while baking.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; remove them once the edges are set to avoid over-baking, keeping them soft and chewy.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Butter Snickerdoodles
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture. They are best enjoyed fresh, but still delicious after a day or two.
Fridge: If you want to extend their life, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.
Freezer: Freeze individual cookie dough balls before baking, allowing for quick access to freshly baked Apple Butter Snickerdoodles whenever the craving strikes. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This revives their gooey apple butter center for a delightful treat!
Apple Butter Snickerdoodles Recipe FAQs
What kind of apple butter should I use?
I highly recommend using Musselman’s apple butter for the best flavor and gooey texture. It’s important to avoid sugar-free varieties, as they won’t melt properly and may affect the overall consistency of your cookies.
How should I store these cookies?
Store your Apple Butter Snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve their chewy goodness. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week, just remember to let them warm to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze, shape the dough into balls, create an indentation in the center, and place spoonfuls of apple butter inside. Then, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. You can keep them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or so to the baking time.
What’s the best way to measure flour accurately?
For the perfect texture, I recommend using the spoon-level method to measure flour. This involves gently spooning the flour into your measuring cup, then leveling it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, as this can pack the flour and lead to overly dense cookies.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
If you’re looking to make gluten-free Apple Butter Snickerdoodles, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum, or add a bit of it if your blend doesn’t. These adjustments will help maintain the soft texture while accommodating dietary needs.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
While your furry friends can enjoy some apple in moderation, these cookies contain ingredients like sugar and butter that aren’t ideal for pets. It’s best to keep these delightful treats for human consumption only!
Warm Apple Butter Snickerdoodles: Soft Cookies for Fall Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line three baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter, cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses at low speed for about 3 minutes until creamy.
- Add the large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract into the mixture, mixing well and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and fine sea salt until combined.
- Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll two-tablespoon-sized balls of dough in this mixture.
- Create a small indentation in each dough ball and fill with Musselman's apple butter, ensuring each has a gooey center. Sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
- Bake for 8-12 minutes or until edges are set and tops look slightly cracked. Allow cooling on wire racks.