Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies with Candied Bacon Dust are a delightful twist on traditional cookies that marry sweet and savory in every bite. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie that is filled with luscious apple butter and topped with a heavenly frosting and a sprinkle of candied bacon dust. The combination of flavors is truly divine, bringing together autumn cravings in a way that makes your taste buds dance with joy.
These cookies are perfect for sharing during festive occasions, family gatherings, or simply to enjoy with your favorite cozy beverage! With a playful history of experimentation in my own kitchen, I’m excited to guide you through this adventure, reminding you that kitchen mishaps can lead to some of the best recipes—like this one.
Why You'll Love This Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies
- This delicious Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies balances flavors that are both sweet and savory, offering a unique treat that everyone will love.
- They are easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.
- The cookies are visually stunning with their warm hues and elegant frosting.
- Versatile as a dessert for special occasions, gatherings, or quiet afternoons with coffee.
Ingredients for Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies:
1 cup butter – Use unsalted butter for better control of salt levels. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
1 cup sugar – Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps in achieving a nice cookie texture.
1 egg – This acts as a binder, providing structure to the cookies.
1 tsp vanilla – Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
2 1/4 cups flour – All-purpose flour is ideal for the right cookie consistency.
1/2 tsp salt – Balance the sweetness with a pinch of salt.
1/4 tsp baking powder – Aids in the leavening process, giving softness to the cookies.
1 jar apple butter – Use your favorite store-bought or homemade apple butter for a rich, apple flavor.
6 strips bacon – Bacon adds a savory crunch; choose thick-cut varieties for a nice bite.
3 tsp brown sugar – This will help to caramelize the bacon and enhance its flavor.
1/2 cup butter, softened – For the frosting component, use softened butter for ease of mixing.
4 ounces cream cheese, softened – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor to the frosting.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Continues the vanilla theme and enhances the frosting.
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve a smooth texture.
How to Make Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies:
Step 1: Cream Your Butters
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This step is crucial, as it incorporates air for a tender cookie texture.
Step 2: Mix in the Egg and Vanilla
Add in the egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla to your creamed mixture, beating well until fully combined. Enjoy the sweet aroma filling your kitchen—it’s a sign that deliciousness awaits!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon baking powder. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a cohesive dough forms. It might feel like a workout, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out later.
Step 5: Roll and Cut the Dough
Once the dough is chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a 2 1/2-inch cookie cutter to cut out 24 circles. Place these on ungreased baking sheets, leaving enough space between them.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 7-9 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Let them cool completely on wire racks, which is essential before adding any frosting.
Step 7: Prepare the Candied Bacon Dust
While the cookies are cooling, chop the bacon into small pieces. Heat a saucepan over medium-high heat and add the bacon to the pan. Cook until the bits are crispy and the grease is frothy, then drain the grease. Pulse the bacon in a food processor with 3 teaspoons of brown sugar until it reaches your desired texture.
Step 8: Make the Frosting
In a clean mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter and 4 ounces of cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, creating an irresistible topping for the cookies.
Step 9: Assemble the Cookies
It’s time for the grand assembly! Take one cookie and lay it top side down on a plate. Spread about 1 tablespoon of apple butter on the backside. Top it with another cookie to create a sandwich. Finish by generously frosting the top and sprinkling it with that glorious bacon dust to add crunch and excitement.
Once assembled, let your Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies rest for a bit to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve them at gatherings, family dinners, or just as a delightful afternoon treat. Get ready for compliments as these cookies fly off the plate!
You Must Know About Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies
- This amazing Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies Cooking Process
To make the best Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies, start by creaming the butter and sugar. While the dough chills, cook the bacon to golden perfection. Lastly, roll the dough, cut, and bake while ensuring the cream cheese frosting awaits to complete the magic.
Add Your Touch to Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies
Feel free to swap regular bacon for turkey bacon or experiment with flavored cream cheese like maple or cinnamon. Want a crunch? Add walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for an extra layer of decadence.
Storing & Reheating Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies
Store the Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the assembled cookies and thaw them at room temperature before serving for that fresh-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies
- For the best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a creamy texture.
- Keep an eye on the bacon to avoid burning.
- Lastly, let the cookies cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
When I first made these cookies for a family gathering, the look on my niece’s face as she took her first bite made the effort worth every minute. She declared it an instant favorite!
FAQs About Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies
What is Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies?
Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies are delightful treats that proudly feature two soft, buttery cookies filled with rich apple butter and topped with creamy frosting. The crowning touch is the addition of candied bacon dust, which adds a unique savory flavor to this sweet dessert. These cookies are a perfect fusion of sweet and savory flavors that makes them irresistible at any gathering.
How can I customize my Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies?
You can easily twist this recipe to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a different flavor profile, use flavored cream cheese such as maple or cinnamon. If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider mixing in nuts like walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough. Additionally, you can swap traditional bacon for turkey bacon to make a lighter version while keeping the flavor robust.
Can I store Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies?
Yes, you can store Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies quite easily! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you’d like to enjoy them later, consider freezing the assembled cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for that fresh-baked taste.
What makes Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies a great choice for gatherings?
These cookies become an instant hit at gatherings due to their unique combination of flavors. The sweet apple butter creates a comforting base, while the creamy frosting and crispy bacon dust offer an unexpected twist that surprises guests. They’re easy to make in large batches and can serve as an elegant yet playful dessert option that’s sure to spark conversation.
Conclusion for Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies
In summary, Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that can elevate any dessert table. With simple adjustments, you can customize them to suit your taste. Storing and reheating these cookies is a breeze, making them a perfect treat for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. Try making these cookies to impress your friends and family; they’ll be asking for your secret recipe!
Delicious Apple Butter Sandwich Cookies with Candied Bacon Dust
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
- Cream together butter and sugar using an electric mixer. Beat in egg and vanilla. Mix in dry ingredients until dough forms. Shape into a disc and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Roll dough to 1/8-inch thick. Using a 2 1/2 inch cookie cutter, cut out 24 circles. Place on ungreased baking sheets, at least 1-inch apart.
- Bake cookies for 7-9 minutes. Let cool.
- Chop bacon. Heat saucepan on stove over medium-high heat and add bacon to pan. Cook until grease is frothy.
- Drain grease from bacon. Pulse in food processor with sugar until desired texture.
- Using an electric mixer with a paddle attachment, cream together butter and cream cheese. Slowly add in vanilla extract and sugar. Beat until creamy.
- Lay 1 cookie top side down. Spread 1 tbsp apple butter on backside. Sandwich with another cookie. Frost with icing and sprinkle bacon on top.
