Apple Butter Cookies

Apple Butter Cookies
These warm, spiced Apple Butter Cookies are a must for any fall baking list. Made with rich apple butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar, these soft and chewy treats deliver the cozy taste of autumn in every bite. Perfect for pairing with a warm cup of tea or coffee on a crisp day!

Nutritional Benefits:

Apple Butter: Rich in fiber and natural sugars, adding both sweetness and moisture without needing extra oil.
Cinnamon: Loaded with antioxidants, it supports heart health and adds a warm, comforting aroma.

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 🌾
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp salt 🧂
½ cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg 🥚
½ cup apple butter 🍏
1 tsp vanilla extract

Cooking Tips:

Apple Butter: Choose a high-quality apple butter with no added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor.
Butter Temperature: Softened butter will cream more smoothly with the sugars, giving your cookies the ideal texture.
Chill Time (Optional): For an extra chewy texture, chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking.

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) 🔥. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, apple butter, and vanilla extract, blending until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Scoop and Bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft.
Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these Apple Butter Cookies slightly warm or at room temperature with a side of apple cider, hot chocolate, or your favorite fall-inspired tea.

Dietary Information:

Vegetarian and Nut-Free
Can be made gluten-free by substituting with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing Option: These cookies freeze well! Place in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature or enjoy straight from the freezer for a firmer bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

These cookies combine the cozy warmth of cinnamon and vanilla with the deep, fruity flavor of apple butter. The balance of crisp edges and soft centers makes them an irresistible treat that will fill your home with the sweet scent of autumn.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 22-25 minutes
Servings: 20 cookies