Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the flavors of autumn with a comforting sweetness. These cookies are not only delicious but also versatile, making them suitable for various occasions such as holiday gatherings, tea parties, or simply as an afternoon snack. The combination of rich apple butter and warm spices creates a unique flavor profile that is sure to please any palate. With their soft texture and creamy filling, these sandwich cookies stand out as a must-try recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of apple butter and spices offers a mouthwatering taste in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have these cookies baked in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Serve them with coffee, tea, or milk for a delightful pairing.
• Impressive Presentation: The sandwich style makes them visually appealing and perfect for sharing.

Tools and Preparation

To make Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies successfully, you’ll need some essential tools that will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together to achieve a fluffy texture.
• Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when baking your cookies on sheets.
• Spring-loaded scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and consistent presentation.

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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 the Baking Sheets

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

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together:
2. all-purpose flour
3. kosher salt
4. apple pie spice
5. ground cinnamon
6. baking soda
7. cream of tartar

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Beat until just combined, stopping to scrape down the sides again.
2. Using a spring-loaded scoop, portion out dough (approximately 34 grams each), roll into balls, then coat in turbinado sugar.
3. Place dough balls on prepared pans about 1½ to 2 inches apart. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Bake cookies until edges are set but centers remain slightly soft, about 13 to 16 minutes.
3. Let cool on pans for about 20 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

1. Place Apple Butter Buttercream in a pastry bag fitted with a ½-inch round piping tip.
2. Pipe a border of buttercream onto the flat side of half of the cooled cookies.
3. Spoon about 1 teaspoon of apple butter onto each piped border.
4. Top with remaining cookies, flat side down.
5. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Enjoy your delightful Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies!

How to Serve Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, these cookies pair beautifully with different accompaniments.

With a Cup of Tea

• A warm cup of your favorite tea complements the spices in the cookies and brings out the apple butter flavor.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange them on a dessert platter alongside other baked goods for an inviting display that’s perfect for celebrations.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Serve with slices of apples or pears for a refreshing contrast that enhances the cookie’s sweetness.

With Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream creates a delicious combination of flavors and textures when sandwiched between two cookies.

How to Perfect Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

To ensure your Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough before baking prevents spreading and results in thicker cookies.
• Measure accurately: Use kitchen scales or measuring cups correctly to maintain the right proportions of ingredients.
• Don’t overbake: Remove cookies from the oven while they are still slightly soft in the center for the best texture.
• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor and crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

These scrumptious cookies can be paired with various side dishes to enhance your enjoyment. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Plate
   A selection of creamy or sharp cheeses pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies, providing a nice balance.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with fresh fruits and granola for a healthy side that complements the richness of the cookies.
3. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and flavor, making them an enjoyable contrast to the soft texture of the cookies.
4. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each cookie adds an indulgent touch that enhances their sweetness.
5. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad can refresh your palate, making it a perfect accompaniment to these rich sandwich cookies.
6. Smoothies
   A berry or apple smoothie provides a cool, fruity drink to enjoy alongside your cookies, creating a delightful snack experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies is a delightful experience, but some common pitfalls can hinder your success. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect butter temperature: Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise, and inaccurate measurements can ruin your cookies. Use a kitchen scale for better accuracy, especially with flour and sugars.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Always refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to achieve the right shape.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined after adding dry ingredients to keep them soft and tender.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can affect baking time and cookie texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

• Freeze assembled cookies for up to 2 months.
• Place in a freeze-safe container or bag, ensuring they’re tightly sealed.

Reheating Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and reheat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie individually on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for a couple of minutes until softened.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies that might help you:

Can I use different spices in Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies?

Yes! You can customize the spice blend according to your taste. Try adding nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor.

How do I make my own apple butter?

To make apple butter, cook peeled and chopped apples with sugar and spices until soft, then blend until smooth. Slow-cook until thickened.

What can I substitute if I don’t have apple butter?

You can substitute apple sauce or any fruit preserves as an alternative filling for these cookies.

How do I store leftover Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies?

Make sure they are in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to three days.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze well. Just make sure they are sealed properly in a freezer-safe container.

Final Thoughts

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by changing spices or fillings based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for any occasion!