
These Apple Butter Cookies are a delightful combination of warm spices, soft textures, and sweet apple butter flavor. Perfect for fall, holiday baking, or any time you’re craving a cozy treat, these cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with all the comforting flavors of apple butter. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea, and you’ve got a truly irresistible dessert!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and ensures soft, chewy cookies.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness and helps with chewiness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: For balance and additional sweetness.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors.
- ½ cup apple butter: The star ingredient, bringing warmth and a subtle apple flavor.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Adds a bit more lift.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: For a warm, spiced note.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the apple butter beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: For added crunch.
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries: For a chewy, fruity twist.
- ½ cup white chocolate chips: For a creamy, sweet touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
- Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated.
- Add the apple butter and mix until smooth.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- If using add-ins like nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
5. Scoop the Dough
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
- Sprinkle the cookies with a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
- Pair with a warm beverage like apple cider, coffee, or chai tea.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookie dough balls or baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake frozen dough directly, adding an extra 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
Tips for Success
- Use Softened Butter: Properly softened butter ensures a smooth, creamy dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make the cookies dense instead of soft.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm and Cozy Flavors: The apple butter and spices create a comforting, autumnal vibe.
- Soft and Chewy: Perfect texture in every bite.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite add-ins for a personal twist.
Enjoy these Apple Butter Cookies as a sweet and spiced treat that’s guaranteed to make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds happy! 🍎✨🍪