Soft cookie dough rolled in cinnamon sugar, filled with apple butter, then baked to perfection. These apple butter thumbprint cookies are a fall favorite, perfect for gatherings, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy treat at home. Their sweet and spiced flavor profile makes them a standout dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cookies
- For Rolling
- For Filling
- How to Make Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
- Step 4: Chill the Dough
- Step 5: Shape and Fill the Dough
- Step 6: Bake
- How to Serve Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Pair with Warm Beverages
- Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Create a Cookie Platter
- Use as Dessert Toppers
- How to Perfect Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Reheating Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought apple butter?
- How do I customize my Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies?
- Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
- What is the best way to serve these cookies?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and straightforward, perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple butter and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting taste that captures the essence of fall.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies as a snack, dessert, or festive gift during the holiday season.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 30 cookies per batch, they’re great for parties or sharing with neighbors.
- Great Storage: These cookies stay fresh for days when stored properly, making them ideal for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your apple butter thumbprint cookies, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Baking sheets
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or handheld mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier when baking your cookies.
Ingredients
Soft cookie dough rolled in cinnamon sugar, filled with apple butter, then baked to perfection. These apple butter thumbprint cookies are a fall favorite. Makes 30 cookies.
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Rolling
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling the cookies)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For Filling
- ½ cup apple butter
How to Make Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F with two racks spaced equally. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer:
1. Cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes until well combined.
2. Add in the egg yolks and vanilla extract, beating for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightened in color and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl:
1. Combine the salt and all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the butter-sugar mixture one cup at a time.
3. Mix on low after each addition just until combined.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl of dough tightly with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for thirty minutes to help firm up the dough.
Step 5: Shape and Fill the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon:
1. Portion out the dough into balls and roll them in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon.
2. Place them on prepared baking sheets about one inch apart.
3. Indent each ball using your thumb or a large wooden spoon handle.
4. Carefully place a small amount of apple butter into each indention.
Step 6: Bake
Bake at 350°F for 12-14 minutes until set. The bottoms and edges should be slightly golden brown. Allow cooling on a wire rack before storing at room temperature for up to three days.
How to Serve Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
Apple butter thumbprint cookies are perfect for a cozy gathering or a simple afternoon treat. Their delightful apple flavor pairs well with various accompaniments to enhance your dessert experience.
Pair with Warm Beverages
- Coffee: A robust cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a comforting pair.
- Tea: Herbal or spiced teas add warmth and balance to the rich flavors of apple butter.
- Hot Chocolate: For a sweet touch, serve these cookies with creamy hot chocolate during chilly days.
Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that adds creaminess and enhances the cookie’s flavors.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: This option brings out the cinnamon notes in the cookies for a delightful twist.
Create a Cookie Platter
- Mixed Cookies: Combine apple butter thumbprint cookies with other fall-themed cookies for variety.
- Decorative Touches: Add seasonal fruits, nuts, and spices to elevate your presentation.
Use as Dessert Toppers
- Ice Cream Sundaes: Crumble cookies on top of ice cream sundaes for added texture and flavor.
- Pancake or Waffle Topping: Chop them up and sprinkle over pancakes or waffles for a unique breakfast treat.
How to Perfect Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
Achieving the perfect apple butter thumbprint cookies is easy with these helpful tips.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring your cookies maintain their shape.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter incorporates better, leading to fluffier cookies.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the texture soft and tender.
- Indent Carefully: Make sure to create deep enough indents for filling without breaking the cookie.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
To make your dessert spread even more delightful, consider serving these delicious side dishes alongside your apple butter thumbprint cookies.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of sharp cheddar, brie, and gouda pairs beautifully with sweet cookies.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Nuts & Dried Fruits: A mix of almonds, walnuts, and dried cranberries offers crunch and complements flavors.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits provides a healthy contrast to the sweet treats.
- Cinnamon Sugar Popcorn: Sweet popcorn drizzled with cinnamon sugar makes for a fun snack option.
- Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve warm caramel sauce on the side for dipping if you crave extra sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too much can create tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a softer texture.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can result in dry cookies. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Oven temperatures can vary. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer for precise baking.
- Neglecting to indent properly: Not pressing enough in the center can prevent the apple butter from holding. Make a deep enough indentation to hold a good amount of filling.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet.
- Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies:
Can I use store-bought apple butter?
Yes, store-bought apple butter works well in this recipe if you prefer convenience.
How do I customize my Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies?
You can add spices like nutmeg or ginger, or even use different fillings such as raspberry jam or caramel.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze both unbaked and baked cookies for later enjoyment.
What is the best way to serve these cookies?
Serve them warm with a cup of tea or coffee, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings.
Final Thoughts
Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their soft texture and sweet apple butter filling make them a delightful treat any time of year. Feel free to customize them with different spices or fillings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these delightful cookies!
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Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Apple Butter Thumbprint Cookies, a delightful fall treat that brings together soft cookie dough rolled in cinnamon sugar and filled with luscious apple butter. These cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying at home. With their inviting aroma and sweet-spicy flavor profile, they are bound to impress family and friends alike. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or shared as festive gifts, these thumbprint cookies are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup apple butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until fluffy. Mix in egg yolks and vanilla.
- Gradually add flour and salt until combined.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
- Roll dough into balls, coat with cinnamon sugar, and place on baking sheets. Create indents and fill with apple butter.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (22g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
