Frosted Apple Butter Cookies Recipe – Soft & Sweet Fall Treat

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of cozying up with a warm cookie, especially when they’re Frosted Apple Butter Cookies. These soft, chewy cookies are perfect for fall, with the rich flavor of apple butter and a sweet cream cheese frosting that will have you reaching for seconds. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just because, these cookies bring warmth and comfort to any occasion.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Frosted Apple Butter Cookies

I first stumbled upon the idea for Frosted Apple Butter Cookies after realizing how much I loved the flavor of apple butter and wanted to incorporate it into a dessert. Here’s why they’re perfect for your next baking adventure:

• Warm Fall Flavors: The apple butter gives these cookies a spiced, cozy taste that’s perfect for cooler weather.
• Soft, Chewy Texture: These cookies have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s not too cakey, and not too dense.
• Sweet and Creamy Frosting: The apple butter icing on top adds an extra layer of flavor and a creamy, indulgent finish.
• Family-Friendly: These cookies are perfect for sharing with your loved ones—kids will especially love the soft texture and sweet icing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookies:

• ¾ cup butter, softened
• ¾ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup apple butter
• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 4½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

For the Apple Butter Icing:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• ¼ cup apple butter
• 2 tablespoons apple cider
• 5 cups powdered sugar

How to Make Frosted Apple Butter Cookies

Making these apple butter cookies is so simple and really rewarding. Let’s break it down step by step!

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine the butter, vegetable oil, apple butter, white sugar, and powdered sugar. Mix everything together until it’s smooth. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, and blend again until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, add the flour, salt, cream of tartar, and baking soda to the wet ingredients. Mix until everything is just blended together. Don’t overmix—it’s important to keep that soft, chewy texture.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and place it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape when baked, and it also enhances the flavor.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden on the edges. They should still be soft in the center, which is perfect for that chewy texture.

Step 5: Make the Apple Butter Icing

While the cookies are cooling, it’s time to make the apple butter icing. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the butter, apple butter, and apple cider. Whisk them together until smooth. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar and whisk until the icing is thick and creamy. If you want the icing a bit thinner, you can add a tiny bit more apple cider.

Step 6: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled to room temperature, spread or drizzle the apple butter icing on top. You can cover them generously or just add a light glaze—whatever you prefer!

Storage Tips for Frosted Apple Butter Cookies

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. The icing will stay soft and delicious.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully. You can freeze them (frosted or unfrosted) for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Pro Tips for Perfect Frosted Apple Butter Cookies

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so just mix until everything is well combined.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough is a must. It makes the cookies easier to handle and gives them a better texture when baked.
• Make the Frosting to Your Taste: If you want the icing to be more like a glaze, add a little more apple cider. If you prefer it thicker, add more powdered sugar.

FAQs About Frosted Apple Butter Cookies

How long do frosted cookies last?
These cookies can last for about 1 week at room temperature, stored in an airtight container. They’ll last a bit longer if you refrigerate them.

Can I freeze frosted cookies?
Yes! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure they’re fully cooled and store them in an airtight container. You can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough and freeze it, or you can bake and freeze the cookies. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them.

Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you love these Frosted Apple Butter Cookies, here are a few other fall-inspired treats to try:

• Pumpkin Spice Blondies
• Apple Cinnamon Morning Buns
• Maple Glazed Apple Blondies

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