Name: Delicious Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free blend can be used); 1 teaspoon Cream of Tartar (Essential for snickerdoodle taste); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (For perfect rise); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness); 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Can substitute with coconut sugar); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Use dark brown for richer flavor); 1 large Eggs (For a vegan version, use flaxseed meal); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 medium Granny Smith Apples (Diced); 1 tablespoon Cinnamon (Key flavor); 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg (Optional)

The aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through the kitchen is enough to transport anyone to their favorite fall memories. These Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies blend the classic charm of a beloved favorite with the delightful twist of diced apples, adding a moist texture that will make your taste buds dance. What’s more, this straightforward recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers, offering a quick and satisfying way to indulge without the fuss. These cookies not only pack a delicious punch but also bring the warm essence of apple pie into every bite! Are you ready to create a cozy moment in your kitchen?

Why will you love these cookies?

Unforgettable Flavors: The combination of spiced apples and cinnamon sugar creates an unforgettable flavor profile that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

Simple Bite-Sized Treats: Perfectly sized and easy to make, these cookies are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without any complicated steps.

Fall-Inspired Comfort Food: They evoke the warmth of autumn, making them an ideal companion for apple cider or a cozy night in.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These cookies are so delicious you’ll want to save some for later, but good luck keeping them around! Whether served warm or chilled, they will win the hearts of family and friends.

Versatile Enjoyment: Experiment with different apples or even try incorporating nuts for an additional crunch if you’re looking for a fun twist like in Apple Brownies Chewy or Apple Bread Deliciously.

Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; swap with a gluten-free blend if needed.
Cream of Tartar – Adds tanginess for that classic snickerdoodle taste; don’t skip this key ingredient!
Baking Soda – Helps achieve that perfect rise and soft cookie texture.
Salt – Flavors the cookies beautifully, balancing the sweetness.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and crunch; try coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
Brown Sugar – Gives moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; dark brown sugar makes it even richer.
Eggs – Binds everything together; for a vegan version, use flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water).
Vanilla Extract – Infuses warmth and depth, elevating the cookie flavor.
Granny Smith Apples – Brings tartness and juiciness; substitute with Honeycrisp for a sweeter twist.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Cinnamon – The star of snickerdoodles, providing that signature flavor.
Nutmeg – Optional, but this spice adds a warm, cozy touch that complements the apple perfectly.

These Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies are not just regular cookies; they’re a warm embrace on a plate!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Prep Oven and Baking Tray
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. This crucial step ensures your Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies bake evenly and come off the tray effortlessly.

Step 2: Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Make sure no lumps remain, as this mixture lays the foundation for that classic snickerdoodle texture. Once well combined, set the bowl aside to prepare for the wet mixture.

Step 3: Wet Mixture
In a separate mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter along with granulated and brown sugars. Mix for 2-3 minutes until the blend is light and fluffy. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract to infuse warmth into your cookie dough.

Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mix, stirring gently until just combined. Over-mixing can result in tough cookies. Carefully fold in the diced Granny Smith apples, allowing them to mingle with the batter and bring that delightful burst of flavor to your Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough into balls about 1.5 tablespoons each. Place these dough balls on a plate and cover them to chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, resulting in a perfectly chewy texture.

Step 6: Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the dough chills, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. Once your dough balls are chilled, roll each one in this sweet mixture until evenly coated, infusing every bite of your Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies with that iconic flavor.

Step 7: Bake
Arrange the cinnamon-sugar-coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Watch closely—cookies should appear slightly underdone in the centers for that soft, chewy texture upon cooling.

Step 8: Cool
After baking, let the cookies rest on the tray for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. This brief resting period allows the cookies to firm up slightly. With this gentle cooling, your Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies will be ready to enjoy warm or at room temperature, capturing the essence of autumn in every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Fridge: To keep the cookies fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, but they may lose some of their softness.

Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive their delightful softness and flavor.

What to Serve with Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

Imagine the delight of savoring these cookies alongside comforting companions that enhance their spiced sweetness and fruitiness.

Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon-sugar flavor, creating a cozy sipping experience. Perfect for a cozy afternoon.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a luxurious touch, balancing the cookie’s warmth and textures with its coolness.
Hot Apple Cider: This fall classic complements the apple flavor in the cookies while adding a festive warmth for those crisp evenings.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This unusual pairing offers a savory contrast to the sweetness, making a well-rounded meal experience. Enjoy together for a delightful surprise!
Glazed Carrot Salad: A fresh salad with sweet glazed carrots provides a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the cookies beautifully.
Maple Pecan Coffee: The nutty tones and slight sweetness in this coffee make for a wonderful pairing, enhancing the autumnal feel of your treat.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate over your cookies for an indulgent twist! This combination will delight chocolate lovers.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Sip this seasonal classic alongside your cookies. Its rich flavors echo the warm spices in the cookies, making a perfect pairing.

Expert Tips for Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

Drain Apples: Pat diced apples dry with a paper towel before adding them to the dough. This simple step helps prevent excess moisture, ensuring your Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies maintain their chewy texture.
Chill Dough: Don’t skip chilling your dough! This crucial step helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from spreading too much while baking.
Baking Cues: For the best chewy texture, pull your cookies from the oven when they look slightly underdone in the center. They will continue to cook as they cool.
Storage Tip: To keep your cookies fresh and moist, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. This keeps them scrumptiously soft for days.
Experiment with Spices: For a unique flavor twist, consider adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom to your cinnamon-sugar mixture when rolling your dough balls. This little enhancement will elevate your Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies to new heights!

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to prepare ahead! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps of mixing the ingredients and chilling the dough. Simply scoop the dough into balls and refrigerate in an airtight container. Just before baking, roll the chilled dough balls in the cinnamon sugar coating and bake directly from the fridge for 8-10 minutes. If you’d like to freeze them, place the rolled dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy fresh-baked cookies anytime with minimal effort!

Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own delicious twist on these cookies; the possibilities are endless!

Different Apples: Swap Granny Smith for Honeycrisp or Braeburn for sweetness without losing the apple texture.
Nutty Goodness: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the chewy cookie.
Dried Fruits: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of flavor and a chewy texture in every bite.
Spice It Up: Introduce a pinch of cardamom or allspice to your cinnamon sugar for a warm, fragrant twist reminiscent of fall.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies for an elegant finish that adds richness and sweetness.
Coconut Sugar Substitute: Use coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic option while retaining that delightful sweetness.
Gluten-Free Options: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these treats accessible to everyone!
Ice Cream Sandwich: Scoop some vanilla or caramel ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert that will wow your guests.

Combine these ideas for a unique take on these Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies or try them to elevate classics like Apple Bread Cozy or explore the rich flavors in Biscoff Cookie Butter Cinnamon Rolls.

Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of apples should I use?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness and juiciness. Alternatively, Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples hold their shape during baking and can offer a sweeter profile if that’s what you prefer!

How should I store the cookies for maximum freshness?
To maintain the soft and chewy texture of your Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Adding a slice of bread will help keep them moist longer. If you want to extend their lifespan, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, but note they may lose some of their softness.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked dough, shape it into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply take them out and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, it likely means the dough was too warm when placed in the oven. Be sure to chill the dough for at least 20-30 minutes before baking. Additionally, ensure the butter is just softened, not melted, as too much heat in the butter can lead to excess spreading in the oven.

Are these cookies suitable for pets or anyone with allergies?
These cookies are made with common baking ingredients such as flour, butter, and sugar, all of which may not be suitable for pets. If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, make sure to inquire about specific allergies related to gluten, dairy, or eggs. For a vegan option, substituting eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) works beautifully!