Johnny Appleseed Filled Cookies
Johnny Appleseed Filled Cookies are delightful treats with crisp edges, sweet apple butter filling, and a buttery, tender cookie base—perfect for fall gatherings or cookie exchanges.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shortening, sugar, and eggs in a bowl.
- Stir in cream and vanilla until well combined.
- Add flour, baking soda, and salt; mix until the dough is blended.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough to 1/8-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the dough into rounds using a cookie cutter.
- Place a spoonful of thick apple butter on the center of one round.
- Top with another round of dough to form a sandwich.
- Press the edges together to seal the filling inside.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of butter and shortening. If you don't have apple butter, homemade fruit preserves or even nut butters can work as a tasty alternative. Ensure you chill the dough thoroughly to help with rolling and cutting. If the dough becomes too warm, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes before proceeding.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. They pair beautifully with a cup of warm cider or tea. For a fun twist, serve them at gatherings as a unique dessert option that complements dishes like Shotgun Nachos (A Great Superbowl Snack!) or Apple Crumbles.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their softness, you can place a slice of bread in the container. If you prefer warm cookies, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Johnny Appleseed Filled Cookies contains roughly 167 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies before or after baking. To freeze unbaked cookies, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. For baked cookies, allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I use instead of apple butter?
If you don't have apple butter on hand, you can substitute it with other fruit spreads like pumpkin butter or even a homemade fruit compote. Nut butters or even caramel can be interesting alternatives if you're looking for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they turn golden brown around the edges and are set in the middle. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking, as they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).