Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These cookies offer a unique combination of flavors with the sweetness of apple butter and the warmth of spices, making them a cozy dessert choice. Not only do they look charming on any dessert table, but they also bring comfort and nostalgia with every bite. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a cozy afternoon tea, or just a sweet snack at home, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master these delicious cookies.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of apple butter and spices creates a rich taste that is both comforting and satisfying.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for serving at parties, gifting to friends, or enjoying during your afternoon coffee break.
• Homemade Goodness: Using simple ingredients means you know exactly what’s in your cookies, ensuring freshness and quality.
• Fun to Decorate: The sandwich style allows for creative decorating with buttercream and additional fillings.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies, you will need some essential tools that will help streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• ½-inch round piping tip (Ateco #806)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Ensures even mixing and helps achieve that light, fluffy texture in the cookie dough.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies, allowing for consistent results every time.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier by lining your baking sheets.

Ingredients

Makes 11 sandwich cookies

For the Cookie Dough

• ¾ cup (170 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (220 grams) firmly packed dark brown sugar
• ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (50 grams), room temperature
• ½ teaspoon (2 grams) vanilla extract
• 2¼ cups (281 grams) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (6 grams) kosher salt
• 1½ teaspoons (3 grams) apple pie spice
• 1 teaspoon (2 grams) ground cinnamon
• ¾ teaspoon (3.75 grams) baking soda
• ½ teaspoon (2 grams) cream of tartar
• Turbinado sugar, for rolling

For the Filling

• Apple Butter Buttercream (recipe follows)
• ¼ cup (75 grams) apple butter

How to Make Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

• Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars Together

• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
• Beat together unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar at medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
• Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
• Add in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate medium bowl:
• Whisk together all-purpose flour, kosher salt, apple pie spice, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and cream of tartar.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture

• With the mixer set to low speed:
• Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter mixture.
• Beat until just combined, stopping again to scrape down sides as necessary.

Step 5: Form Cookie Dough Balls

1. Using a spring-loaded scoop measuring about 1½ tablespoons:
2. Scoop out portions of dough (approximately 34 grams each).
3. Roll into balls in your hands.
4. Roll each ball in turbinado sugar before placing them on prepared pans about 1½ to 2 inches apart.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

1. Once preheated:
2. Bake cookies until edges are set while centers remain slightly soft, approximately 13 to 16 minutes.
3. Allow cooling on pans for about 20 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 8: Assemble Sandwich Cookies

1. Place your Apple Butter Buttercream in a pastry bag fitted with a piping tip.
2. Pipe a border of buttercream onto one flat side of half of the cookies.
3. Spoon about 1 teaspoon or roughly 6 grams of apple butter into the center before topping with remaining cookies, flat side down.

Now you have delicious Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

How to Serve Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies make for a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. Their sweet and spicy flavors pair well with various beverages and snacks.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pairing these cookies with your favorite herbal or black tea enhances their warmth and comfort. The spices in the cookies complement the tea beautifully.

As a Snack with Milk

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a glass of cold milk. The creamy texture contrasts perfectly with the soft cookie, making each bite satisfying.

At a Picnic

• Pack Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies in your picnic basket for a sweet surprise. They travel well and are sure to impress friends and family outdoors.

For Dessert

• Serve these cookies as a delightful dessert after dinner. They can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.

During the Holidays

• These cookies shine during holiday gatherings. Their festive flavors make them an excellent addition to any holiday dessert table.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

To achieve the best Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies, consider these helpful tips:

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough before baking helps maintain the shape of the cookies and prevents spreading during baking.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing, leading to a lighter texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until ingredients are just combined to keep the cookies tender; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens vary, so check your cookies a minute or two before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the apple pie spice or add nutmeg for a unique flavor twist that suits your taste.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness, ensuring they remain soft and delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are versatile enough to be paired with various dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Include sharp cheeses like cheddar or creamy brie to create an interesting flavor contrast.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit alongside your cookies for a wholesome snack option.

4. Nuts & Dried Fruits
   A mix of nuts and dried fruits provides crunchiness and complements the cookie’s rich flavors.

5. Savory Crackers
   Choose whole grain or herb-flavored crackers for a savory bite that pairs well with sweet treats.

6. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus
   Crisp veggies served with hummus offer a healthy side that balances out the indulgence of cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape. Don’t skip this step; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to achieve the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and tender.
• Using incorrect measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups properly to ensure you get it right.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can affect cookie texture. Always preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) before baking.
• Ignoring cooling times: Letting cookies cool on the pans is important. They continue cooking slightly from residual heat, so give them time before moving them.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing cookies in for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies.

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Yes, homemade apple butter works wonderfully! It can add a personal touch and unique flavor.

How do I make apple butter?

You can make apple butter by slow-cooking apples with spices and sweeteners until thickened. Blend it smooth for a delicious spread.

What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?

You can use gluten-free flour blends if you prefer gluten-free options. Be sure to check compatibility with your recipe.

Can I customize my Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even swap spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that balances sweetness with spice. Their versatility allows you to customize them in many ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delicious cookies with family and friends!