If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what to make with apple butter, the answer is here: these Apple Butter Cookies. Soft, warmly spiced, and easy to make, this recipe turns your favorite fall spread into an irresistible treat. Perfect for chilly mornings, holiday cookie trays, or cozy afternoons with a cup of tea, these cookies are about to become your new go-to dessert.

They’re everything you want from a seasonal cookie—tender, full of flavor, and packed with autumn vibes. Plus, they’re a great way to use up that jar of apple butter in your fridge. If you’re on the hunt for apple butter baking recipes or even something sweet to balance a savory snack table, these cookies deliver every time.

Looking for more fall dessert ideas? You might also love trying Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or these Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups.

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Why These Apple Butter Cookies Are the Perfect Fall Treat

Not all cookies are created equal. These Apple Butter Cookies are soft and chewy with just the right amount of spice. The apple butter gives them a tender, moist texture while adding depth and warmth. Think snickerdoodles meet gingerbread, but softer and fruitier.

They’re a dream to serve with hot drinks, tuck into lunchboxes, or bring to cookie exchanges. And if you’re exploring what to do with apple butter outside of toast, this recipe is a delicious starting point.

Even better? They require zero chilling, minimal effort, and only a handful of ingredients—most of which are probably already in your pantry.

Ingredients for Apple Butter Cookies

Here’s everything you’ll need to make about 2 dozen cookies:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup apple butter
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Make sure your apple butter is thick, not runny, for the best texture. If you’ve got extra, use it to drizzle over Pumpkin French Toast Roll-Ups or mix it into Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies.

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Essential Baking Tools for Apple Butter Baked Goods

Gather these baking essentials for smooth preparation:

• Hand or stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mats
• Cooling rack

These tools will help you achieve evenly baked, golden-brown cookies with a soft bite and beautifully spiced aroma.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Apple Butter Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream the butter and sugars in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until well combined.
3. Add the apple butter and mix until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined. Don’t overwork the dough.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are set but centers still look soft. They will continue to bake slightly on the tray.
8. Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

The result? Soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that taste like fall. If you enjoy this level of spice, you’ll also love Spooky Ghost Brown Butter Pumpkin Cookies for a Halloween twist.

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What to Eat With Apple Butter Cookies

These cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Spiced apple cider
• Hot chai lattes
• Pumpkin cold brew like this Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew
• Fresh fruit or warm baked apples
• Yogurt dips or fruit spreads

They also make a tasty addition to a fall brunch spread with Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl or Croissant Breakfast Boats.

Apple Butter Uses: More Recipes With Apple Butter in It

These cookies are just the start when it comes to recipes with apple butter in it. Try using apple butter to:

• Swirl into muffins or Pumpkin Bread with Chocolate Chips
• Add moisture to pancakes or waffles
• Stir into oatmeal
• Use as a filling in hand pies or thumbprint cookies
• Mix into frostings or glazes

And if you’re baking for a party or holiday table, add apple butter to your Fruit Dip for a twist everyone will love.

Flavor Variations & Baking Tips for These Cookies

Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try experimenting with:

• Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch
• White chocolate chips for sweetness
• Caramel drizzle or a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and apple juice
• Rolling in cinnamon sugar before baking for added texture

Want more rich, flavorful cookies? These Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies are also showstoppers.

Storage Tips for Apple Butter Cookies

These cookies store well, making them perfect for gifting or prepping ahead. Here’s how:

• Room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerate: Store for 7–10 days for longer freshness.
• Freeze: Flash freeze on a tray, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

They’re great for freezing alongside Pumpkin Cheesecake Truffles for an easy grab-and-go dessert spread.

What To Do With Apple Butter (Besides Cookies)

If you’ve still got apple butter left after baking, here are some easy and delicious ways to use it:

• Spread on toast, bagels, or biscuits
• Stir into Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Pancakes
• Use in place of jam in sandwiches
• Mix into granola or yogurt parfaits
• Swirl into Pumpkin Dump Cake
• Add to marinades for pork or chicken

Looking for savory uses too? Apple butter pairs surprisingly well with sharp cheeses and can be used in glazes for meat dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking With Apple Butter

To ensure your cookies come out soft and delicious, avoid these common missteps:

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies
• Using runny apple butter: It will alter texture and spread
• Skipping the spices: Apple butter has spice, but enhancing it makes all the difference
• Baking too long: Watch closely—these cookies should be soft in the center

Want more texture-friendly baked treats? Try these Cheesy Zucchini Bread or Pumpkin Zucchini Bread.

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FAQs About Baking With Apple Butter

Can I substitute applesauce for apple butter?
Not quite. Apple butter is thicker, sweeter, and spicier. Applesauce will change the texture and flavor significantly.

Are these cookies healthy?
They’re a treat, but apple butter does reduce the need for extra fat or sugar. Use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Results may vary slightly but they still taste great.

Do I need to chill the dough?
Not at all. This recipe works best baked right away—perfect for quick cravings!

Final Thoughts on Apple Butter Cookies You’ll Want Year-Round

These Apple Butter Cookies are soft, spiced, and perfect for fall—but you’ll be making them year-round. They’re the answer to your question of what to make with apple butter, whether you’re gifting, snacking, or building the ultimate cookie tray.

Easy to make, easier to love. If you’re craving more cozy, spiced baked goods, try our Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls or Apple Fritter Donuts.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it, save it to Pinterest, and subscribe for more delicious baking ideas using apple butter and beyond.

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