Apple-Loaded Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients for the Cookies:

• 1 lb. unsalted butter, room temp
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 4-1/4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 1/3 cups apples, skin on, small dice

Ingredients for the Frosting:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temp
• 8 oz. cream cheese, room temp
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 Tbsp. apple cider
• 1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon

Directions:

1. Cream butter and sugar several minutes until mixture is light and fluffy. Add vanilla.
2. Sift in flour and salt. Add diced apple and continue blending, using hands if necessary, until combined.
3. Remove dough, use a little flour (if needed), and work into a long roll (dough log). Wrap dough in plastic and chill for 45-60 minutes until butter sets.
4. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
5. Remove dough from fridge. Slice into ½ inch circles and place onto ungreased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden. Remove from oven and cool. Cookies will harden as they cool.
6. Top with Apple Cider & Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat butter and cream cheese until creamy, about 3-4 minutes. Add powdered sugar (using a low speed), a little at a time, then the remaining ingredients and combine thoroughly, whipping at least 90 seconds.