Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a cookie that perfectly balances cozy autumn flavors with a fun, elegant twist, these Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are exactly what you need. Imagine tender, spiced cookie layers hugging a luscious apple butter buttercream and a dollop of rich apple butter right in the center—each bite melts in your mouth and bursts with comforting warmth. These cookies feel like a celebratory hug from the season, wonderfully simple to make yet impressive enough for any gathering or a special snack at home. Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies turn humble pantry staples into a magical treat you’ll want to share again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for ingredients that are straightforward but work together beautifully to create texture, flavor, and that perfect golden color. Each one has its role: from the spices that bring warmth and earthiness to the sugars that add sweetness and crunch.

• Unsalted butter (¾ cup): Softened to creamy perfection, it creates a tender cookie base with rich flavor.
• Dark brown sugar (1 cup): Adds deep molasses notes and moistness to the dough.
• Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Gives a touch of sweetness and helps with the cookie’s crisp edges.
• Egg (1 large): Binds everything together and adds a bit of richness.
• Vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Enhances all other flavors with a sweet, aromatic note.
• All-purpose flour (2¼ cups): The structure of the cookie, making it sturdy yet soft.
• Kosher salt (2 teaspoons): Balances sweetness and intensifies the spices.
• Apple pie spice (1½ teaspoons): A warm blend that brings seasonal flair.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds classic spice and depth.
• Baking soda (¾ teaspoon): Ensures the cookies rise just the right amount.
• Cream of tartar (½ teaspoon): Helps with the texture and slight tanginess.
• Turbinado sugar: For rolling dough balls, adding delightful crunch and sparkle.
• Apple Butter (¼ cup): The star filling’s sweet, smooth fruitiness.
• Apple Butter Buttercream: A luscious, creamy frosting that perfectly complements the apple butter (recipe included).

How to Make Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough and Mix Sugars

Start by lining two baking sheets with parchment paper; this ensures that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. In your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this usually takes 3 to 4 minutes. This step creates the perfect base texture for your cookies, making them tender yet with a slight chew. Then add the egg and vanilla extract and mix just until combined, creating a smooth, aromatic dough.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, apple pie spice, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and cream of tartar. These spices provide that warm, comforting flavor that defines Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies. Adding the dry mixture gradually to the wet ingredients on low mixer speed prevents overmixing, which keeps the cookies tender without becoming tough. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is perfectly blended.

Step 3: Shape and Chill the Dough

Using a 1½-tablespoon spring-loaded scoop, portion the dough evenly (about 34 grams per cookie). Roll each scoop into a ball, then generously roll each ball in turbinado sugar to add an irresistible sparkle and crunch to the outer layer. Place the sugared dough balls 1½ to 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Pop the sheets into the fridge and let them chill for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour—this step is key to helping the cookies hold their shape during baking and intensify the flavors.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the cookies for 13 to 16 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain a little soft. This slight softness ensures the cookies stay tender after cooling. Allow the cookies to cool on the pans for 20 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Patience here rewards you with tender, flavorful cookies—the base for your delicious Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Fill a pastry bag fitted with a ½-inch round piping tip (Ateco #806 if you have it) with the Apple Butter Buttercream. Pipe a neat border around the flat side of half of the cooled cookies. Spoon about 1 teaspoon (6 grams) of apple butter into the center of each border—this luscious filling creates a vibrant contrast to the spiced cookie. Top with the remaining cookies, flat side down, pressing lightly to form neat sandwiches. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days to let the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar over the cookie tops will add a pretty, festive look perfect for holidays or special occasions. For texture contrast, sprinkle a few crunchy chopped pecans or walnuts around the serving plate. You can even add a small cinnamon stick on the side for a fragrant autumn touch that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or apple cider, enhancing their spiced apple essence. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes a decadent accompaniment if you’re serving them as a dessert. They also work beautifully alongside a fresh fruit platter to lighten up the presentation.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies on a pretty cake stand or arranging them in a rustic wooden box lined with parchment for a delightful gift. Wrapping each cookie in parchment paper tied with twine makes for an adorable party favor. To impress guests, serve them alongside mini jars of apple butter for a customizable tasting experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This helps maintain the creamy texture of the apple butter buttercream and keeps the cookie layers tender yet firm. Bringing them to room temperature before serving enhances the flavor and softens the buttercream.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies in advance, freezing them is a fantastic option. Assemble the sandwich cookies as usual, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to keep every bite just as delicious as freshly made.

Reheating

When ready to eat, let the cookies come to room temperature or warm them gently in a microwave for about 10 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent the buttercream from melting too much. This quick step refreshes their flavors and texture, making each bite taste like they were just assembled that day.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought apple butter for the filling?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple butter works wonderfully for these sandwich cookies. Just choose a high-quality brand with rich flavor and smooth texture for the best results.

What if I don’t have apple pie spice?

No worries! You can easily substitute with a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves or allspice. This DIY blend will give your Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies a lovely, warm spice profile.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

With a few tweaks like using vegan butter and a flax egg in place of the chicken egg, you could adapt this recipe to be vegan-friendly. Just ensure your apple butter and sugar are also vegan.

How long do Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these cookies taste best within 3 days. Beyond that, the texture of the buttercream may start to change.

What is the best way to pipe the buttercream border?

Using a piping bag fitted with a round tip helps create an even barrier that holds the apple butter filling in place without spilling. Practice on parchment paper if you want to perfect your technique before filling the cookies.

Final Thoughts

Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that bring the flavors of fall into every bite, crafted with love and simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying a cozy moment solo, these cookies never fail to impress and satisfy. Don’t wait to bake a batch and discover how these cookies can brighten your day with their warm spices, creamy filling, and irresistible apple goodness. Happy baking!

Print