Description

Hello, cookie lovers! If you’re on the hunt for a treat that’s packed with warm spices, gooey apple butter, and the perfect balance of sweetness, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of Cinnamon Sugar Apple Butter Cookies! Imagine biting into a soft, cinnamon-sugar-coated cookie that gives way to a delightful apple butter filling. These cookies are perfect for fall, winter, or whenever you’re craving something cozy and comforting. Whether you’re a fan of apple pie or cinnamon sugar treats, this Cinnamon Sugar Apple Butter Cookies recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Make sure to spoon and level your flour for the best results.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and gives them a light texture.
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar – Adds a slight tang and enhances the chewiness.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Soft butter is key for creamy and smooth dough.
1/2 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and texture.
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and a deeper caramel-like flavor.
1 large egg – Acts as a binding agent and adds richness to the dough.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances all the flavors.
1/2 cup apple butter – This is the gooey filling that makes these cookies extra special.
1/4 cup cinnamon sugar (for rolling) – This gives the cookies that iconic sugary crust.

Optional substitutions:

For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with plant-based margarine.
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute of your choice.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before we get started, make sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough, giving your cookies a perfect rise and texture.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, which leads to tender cookies. Once the mixture is smooth, add in the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Fill with Apple Butter

Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, form balls of dough and flatten each slightly. Place a small spoonful of apple butter in the center of each flattened dough ball. Carefully fold the edges of the dough around the apple butter, sealing it inside.

Step 6: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar

Once the apple butter is securely tucked inside the dough, roll each ball in cinnamon sugar, making sure it’s evenly coated. The cinnamon sugar creates a sweet, crisp exterior for the cookies.

Step 7: Bake

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden around the edges. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies will continue to cook slightly as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, these cookies are ready to enjoy!

Notes

Chill the Dough: For extra chewy cookies, you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes before filling and rolling. This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.
Avoid Overfilling: Be cautious with the amount of apple butter you add to each cookie. Too much filling can cause the cookies to break or ooze during baking.
Even Spacing: Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie on the baking sheet. This ensures even baking and prevents them from sticking together.