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Cinnamon Sugar Cookies

These homemade Cinnamon Sugar Cookies are soft, chewy, and flavored with apple butter for a nostalgic treat that brings warm memories with every bite.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the cookie dough

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Use a high-quality butter for the best flavor; I love using Kerrygold for its rich taste.
  • 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar For that perfect sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup apple butter Store-bought is fine but homemade apple butter is a revelation.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature Brings a cheerful lift to the dough.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Always go for pure vanilla extract for a deeper flavor.
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour Give it a good whisk before measuring for the best results.
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar Helps create that soft, tender crumb.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Make sure it’s fresh; old baking soda won’t give your cookies the rise they need.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon A necessity for that warm flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Balances the sweetness beautifully.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg I love the subtle warmth it adds.

For the cinnamon sugar

  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar For cinnamon sugar.
  • 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon For cinnamon sugar.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line three cookie sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
  • In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and apple butter. Mix on medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until it's light and fluffy.
  • Break in the eggs one at a time. Beat well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
  • In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and ground nutmeg.
  • Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing; it should still be slightly soft and sticky.
  • Using a tablespoon scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto one of the lined cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Baking

  • In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 3 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
  • Roll each ball of dough in the cinnamon sugar mixture before placing it back on the prepared cookie sheet.
  • Slide the sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden while keeping the centers soft.
  • Remove the cookies gently from the sheets immediately and place them on a cooling rack to let cool slightly before indulging.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Dough can be refrigerated for up to three days.
Keyword Baked Treat, Cinnamon Sugar Cookies, Comfort Food, Holiday Cookies, Homemade Cookies