The Best Apple Butter Snickerdoodles Recipe

If you’re dreaming about indulgent, soft, and flavorful cookies that feel like a warm hug, then you absolutely have to try The Best Apple Butter Snickerdoodles. These cookies take the classic snickerdoodle to a whole new level by adding luscious apple butter right in the center, creating a sweet, cinnamon-kissed surprise with every bite. The creamy texture mingles beautifully with the familiar cinnamon-sugar coating, while the subtle molasses and cream cheese add a complexity that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon treat or a festive gathering, these irresistible delights bring comfort and joy in every mouthful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect combination of texture, flavor, and appearance. From creamy butter and tangy cream cheese to aromatic cinnamon and rich apple butter, this lineup ensures your cookies will be soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor from the very first bite.

• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, cool room temperature: Provides richness and a tender crumb for the soft cookie texture.
• 3.5 ounces cold full-fat cream cheese: Adds moisture and a subtle tanginess, enhancing softness and depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with that classic snickerdoodle crunch.
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Brings warm, caramel notes perfect to pair with cinnamon and apple butter.
• 2 tablespoons unsulphured molasses: Adds a deep, rich sweetness and a hint of molasses complexity.
• 1 large egg, room temperature: Helps bind everything together while contributing to softness.
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature: Adds extra tenderness and richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brightens all the flavors with a sweet, aromatic touch.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure to these deliciously chewy cookies.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives a light lift for fluffiness without compromising the chewy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar: Classic snickerdoodle ingredient for that signature tang and chew.
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/3 cup cane granulated sugar (for rolling): Creates the classic cinnamon-sugar coating with a delicate crunch.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for rolling): Provides the distinctive snickerdoodle spice coating that’s irresistible.
• 3/4 cup Musselman’s Apple Butter: The star ingredient that makes these Snickerdoodles truly the best, adding warmth and fruity depth.
• 4 tablespoons turbinado sugar: Sprinkled on top for an extra sparkle and delightful crunch.

How to Make The Best Apple Butter Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugars

Start by combining the room-temperature butter, cold cream cheese, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and molasses in a large mixing bowl. Beat them on low speed for about three minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth. This step is key to achieving a tender crumb and ensuring your snickerdoodles have that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the room-temperature egg, the extra egg yolk, and vanilla extract to your fluffy butter and sugar mixture. Mix gently, just until everything is combined. The eggs add richness and structure, while the vanilla complements the apple butter and cinnamon flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and fine sea salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low just until you get a smooth, cohesive dough. Overmixing here can toughen your cookies, so be gentle and attentive.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating and Shape the Cookies

Combine the cane granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl – this is your classic snickerdoodle coating that adds the perfect spicy sweetness. Then, scoop out 2-tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll each thoroughly in the cinnamon sugar mixture until completely coated. Place the coated dough balls onto your parchment-lined baking sheets with enough space between them.

Step 5: Add Apple Butter Centers and Turbinado Sugar

Using the back of a round tablespoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each dough ball. Fill each indentation with 1/2 tablespoon of luscious Musselman’s Apple Butter. Finally, sprinkle turbinado sugar on top to add sparkle and a slight crunch after baking. This step transforms these cookies into The Best Apple Butter Snickerdoodles by delivering that surprise burst of apple flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your cookies at 350°F (180°C) for about 8 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Keep a close eye because you want that tender texture, not overbaked crispness. Once out of the oven, let them cool completely on wire racks. This cooling time allows the cookies to finish setting and makes them easier to handle and truly irresistible.

How to Serve The Best Apple Butter Snickerdoodles

Garnishes

Sprinkling a little extra cinnamon sugar or a light dusting of powdered sugar over your cookies just before serving can elevate their look and add an extra touch of sweetness. For a festive twist, try drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over the tops or a gentle smear of apple butter alongside for dipping.

Side Dishes

These snickerdoodles pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea, as the warmth complements the cinnamon and apple flavors perfectly. If you’re serving them after dinner, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream also makes a delightful sidekick.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cookies on a rustic wooden platter surrounded by fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a charming fall presentation. You can also stack them with wax paper in between for a beautiful homemade gift. For gatherings, you might even serve mini dessert plates featuring one cookie with a small ramekin of warm apple butter for dunking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their softness and flavor. To keep them extra fresh, add a slice of apple inside the container; this helps retain moisture without drying out your cookies.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy The Best Apple Butter Snickerdoodles later, these cookies freeze beautifully. Freeze them on a baking sheet first until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep nicely for up to three months.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked softness, warm the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes or microwave individually for 10-15 seconds. This brings back the melt-in-your-mouth experience and highlights the apple butter’s comforting flavor.

FAQs

Can I substitute the apple butter with something else?

While apple butter gives these snickerdoodles their signature flavor, you could try alternatives like pumpkin butter or even a thick apricot jam for a different fruity twist. Just keep in mind it might slightly change the taste and moisture balance.

Why is cream of tartar used in this recipe?

Cream of tartar is a classic snickerdoodle ingredient that adds a slight tang and helps create the chewy texture these cookies are known for. It also reacts with the baking powder to provide just the right amount of lift.

Can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?

Substituting butter and cream cheese with vegan versions is possible, but be sure to use products that hold their shape well when baked. Also, consider using flax or chia eggs as egg substitutes. Results may vary, so a test batch is recommended.

What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?

For best results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents packing, which can make the dough too dense and dry.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape the balls, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the apple butter and turbinado sugar right before baking to keep the centers fresh.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat to your baking repertoire, give The Best Apple Butter Snickerdoodles a try. Their perfect balance of soft texture, warm cinnamon spice, and that magical apple butter center makes them truly unforgettable. Whip up a batch, and I promise these will become your new favorite cookie to share again and again.

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