These Apple Butter Cookies are a cozy and flavorful treat that brings together warm spices and the sweet, smooth flavor of apple butter. With a soft texture and hints of cinnamon, these cookies are ideal for fall or any time you want a comforting dessert. They’re easy to make and perfect for snacking, sharing, or pairing with a warm drink.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and Chewy Texture: The apple butter keeps these cookies moist and tender.
- Warm, Spiced Flavor: Cinnamon adds a lovely warmth that pairs perfectly with the apple butter.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these cookies are easy to whip up on a cozy afternoon.
- Perfect for Fall: Ideal for autumn gatherings, holiday baking, or any time you’re craving a spiced treat.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup apple butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Cream Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients
- Beat in the egg, apple butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
Bake the Cookies
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft.
Cool
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls for wet and dry ingredients
- Electric mixer for creaming butter and sugars
- Spatula for folding in dry ingredients
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Wire rack for cooling
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot apple cider for a perfect fall treat.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: These cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations
- Add Nuts: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor.
- Spiced Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle the tops of the cookies with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Maple Drizzle: Drizzle a simple maple glaze (made with powdered sugar and maple syrup) over cooled cookies for a hint of extra sweetness.
Helpful Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smooth, even cookie dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft and tender.
- Apple Butter Tip: Make sure the apple butter is thick and not too watery; this will prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use applesauce instead of apple butter?
Apple butter is more concentrated in flavor and has a thicker texture than applesauce, which could affect the cookies’ texture. For best results, use apple butter.
2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for similar results.
3. Can I add extra spices?
Absolutely! Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
4. How do I make homemade apple butter?
To make homemade apple butter, cook down apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of cider or water, then blend until smooth. Simmer until thickened.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles well if you’re baking for a larger group.
These Soft and Spiced Apple Butter Cookies are the ultimate fall treat, bringing all the cozy flavors of the season into each delicious bite. Perfect for snacking, gifting, or simply enjoying with your favorite hot beverage, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite!