Apple butter cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the sweet, aromatic flavors of apple butter with a soft and chewy texture. These cookies are perfect for cozy fall days or as a dessert for any occasion. The addition of finely chopped apples enhances their flavor, making them even more irresistible. With a simple preparation and ingredients, these cookies are a fun and tasty twist on classic sugar cookies.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- For the Cookies:
- 2 eggs
- 100 grams of sugar
- 100 grams of butter, softened
- 350 grams of flour
- 16 grams of baking powder
- 2 apples, peeled and finely chopped
- Parchment paper
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually sift in the flour and baking powder, stirring to combine into a dough.
3. Add the Apples:
- Peel and finely chop the apples, then fold them gently into the dough. This will add moisture and a burst of fresh flavor to your cookies.
4. Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- You can slightly flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon to ensure even baking.
5. Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden around the edges. The center should still be slightly soft but set.
6. Cool and Dust:
- Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.
- Once cool, dust them lightly with powdered sugar to add an extra layer of sweetness and a lovely finish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting snack.
- These cookies also make a great addition to holiday cookie trays or as a treat for guests.
- Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature before mixing it with the sugar for the best texture.
- Be sure to chop the apples finely to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- For added flavor, consider using cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough or sprinkling them on top before baking.
Variations to Try:
- Swap the apples for other fruits like pears or peaches for a different flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or apple pie spice to the dough for an extra kick of warmth and flavor.
- For a crunchy texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough.
Conclusion: Apple butter cookies are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that perfectly blends the sweet and tart flavor of apples with the rich, comforting taste of butter. These cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a special treat with your family.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Can I use store-bought apple butter instead of fresh apples?
Yes, you can replace the chopped apples with about 1/2 cup of apple butter for a richer flavor. -
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop it into balls, freeze them on a tray, and then transfer to a bag or container. -
How can I make these cookies healthier?
You can reduce the sugar by using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit, and substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. -
What kind of apples are best for this recipe?
Tart apples like Granny Smith work great for a more balanced flavor, but sweeter apples like Fuji or Gala will also work well. -
How do I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.