Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. These cookies feature a rich, spiced flavor profile thanks to the apple butter and spices, making them perfect for fall gatherings or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea. Their unique sweet-and-spicy taste, combined with a creamy filling, sets them apart from traditional cookies. Whether you serve them at a party or enjoy them at home, Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple butter and spices creates a rich flavor that is both comforting and satisfying.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies as an afternoon snack, dessert at dinner parties, or as a sweet gift for friends.
• Homemade Goodness: Made from scratch, these cookies offer a fresh taste that store-bought items can’t match.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different fillings or add-ins to make these cookies your own.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry bag with piping tip

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Baking sheets: Using quality baking sheets helps achieve even baking for perfectly cooked cookies without sticking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup easy while helping achieve even cooking.

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Ingredients

Makes 11 sandwich cookies

For the Cookies:

• 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 Baking Sheets

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

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar at medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
2. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
3. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, apple pie spice, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
2. Gradually add this flour mixture into the butter mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 4: Shape Cookie Dough

1. Using a 1½-tablespoon spring-loaded scoop, portion out dough (about 34 grams each).
2. Roll each piece into balls then roll in turbinado sugar.
3. Place dough balls on prepared pans about 1½ to 2 inches apart.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 hour.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 6: Bake Cookies

1. Bake in preheated oven until edges are set but centers remain slightly soft, about 13 to 16 minutes.
2. Allow cookies to cool on pans for about 20 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare Filling

1. Place Apple Butter Buttercream in a pastry bag fitted with a ½-inch round piping tip (Ateco #806).
2. Pipe a border of buttercream onto the flat side of half of the cookies.
3. Spoon approximately 1 teaspoon of apple butter in the center before topping with remaining cookies.

Step 8: Store Cookies

Refrigerate assembled cookies in an airtight container for up to three days for maximum freshness. Enjoy your delicious Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies!

How to Serve Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to impress guests at a gathering or simply indulge yourself, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Cup of Tea

• A warm cup of herbal or black tea pairs beautifully with these cookies, enhancing their sweet and spicy flavors.

For Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter alongside other baked goods like brownies or cupcakes for a beautiful presentation at parties.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Enjoy these cookies with a glass of cold milk or your favorite plant-based alternative for a comforting afternoon pick-me-up.

Gift Packaging

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags to give as gifts. They make an excellent surprise for friends and family during special occasions.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

To achieve the best results with your Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies, follow these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps maintain its shape while baking and enhances the flavors.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will add depth to your cookies. Consider using whole spices and grinding them yourself for better flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the cookies tender; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly calibrated. An oven thermometer can ensure you’re baking at the correct temperature.
• Experiment with Fillings: Try adding different flavored buttercreams or fruit spreads between the cookies for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

These delicious cookies can be paired with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers a creamy contrast that enhances the cookie’s flavors.
3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a healthy side that adds creaminess and crunch.
4. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and sugar provide a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft cookies.
5. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for added richness and indulgence.
6. Tea Sandwiches
   Light finger sandwiches filled with cucumber or cream cheese offer a savory option that complements sweet treats nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother dough. This helps create a light and fluffy texture in your cookies.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the refrigeration step can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to keep their shape.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can make cookies tough. Mix until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies. Remove them when they are set at the edges but still slightly soft in the center for the best results.
• Skipping the cooling time: Letting cookies cool on pans before transferring them to wire racks is essential. This helps them firm up and prevents breakage.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure that they are separated by parchment paper if layered to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

• Freeze unassembled cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; simply thaw before assembling with buttercream and apple butter.

Reheating Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until slightly soft.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up without drying them out.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies.

Can I use homemade apple butter?

Yes, homemade apple butter works great! Just ensure it has a similar consistency as store-bought.

How do I make Apple Butter Buttercream?

To make Apple Butter Buttercream, simply mix softened butter with powdered sugar and apple butter until you reach your desired consistency and flavor.

What can I substitute for apple pie spice?

If you don’t have apple pie spice, you can mix equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice as an alternative.

How long will these cookies last?

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge or three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are deliciously sweet and versatile, perfect for any occasion. You can customize them by adding nuts or using different spices based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!