Name: Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups plus 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 tsp cream of tartar; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 3 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced; 5 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1 3/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Jump to Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a cookie recipe that perfectly combines warmth, spice, and a touch of fruity freshness, these Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies are absolutely what you need. They are a delightful twist on a classic snickerdoodle, enriched with the crisp tang of Granny Smith apples and an irresistible medley of cinnamon and nutmeg. Every bite is like a comforting hug, bursting with cozy flavors that feel like fall in each mouthful. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these cookies bring a perfect balance of soft texture, spice, and a sweet-sour zing that will quickly become a household favorite.

Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies rely on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create amazing flavor and texture. Each component plays an important role, from the tartness of the Granny Smith apples to the gentle fluffiness from the cream of tartar, making sure every cookie turns out just right.

All-purpose flour (3 cups plus 2 tbsp): The base that provides structure and chewiness to your cookies.
Cream of tartar (2 tsp): Gives the cookies their signature tang and helps with that classic snickerdoodle texture.
Baking soda (1 tsp): Adds lift and helps with leavening to keep cookies tender.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Unsalted butter (3/4 cup, softened): For a rich, buttery flavor and soft crumb.
Granulated sugar (1 cup + 5 tbsp): Sweetens the dough and also forms part of the cinnamon sugar coating.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and deep caramel notes.
Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and contribute to a tender bite.
Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp): Boosts the warmth and depth of the cookie flavor.
Granny Smith apples (3 cups, peeled and diced): Bring tartness, moisture, and a lovely fresh apple taste.
Ground cinnamon (1 1/2 tbsp): Essential for that spiced sugar coating with warmth and aroma.
Ground nutmeg (1 3/4 tsp): Adds a subtle, cozy spice complementing the cinnamon perfectly.

How to Make Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare for Baking

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This perfect temperature ensures the cookies bake evenly and develop a delicate, golden crust. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Getting your baking station ready upfront means a smooth cookie session with no surprises!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. This mixture forms the backbone of your dough, blending the leavening agents and spices that give these cookies their classic snickerdoodle rise and delightful texture. Having a well-mixed dry ingredient base helps everything incorporate nicely in the next step.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This is where the magic begins: the sugars dissolve into the butter, creating tiny air pockets that give the cookies their tender crumb. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing after each, and then pour in the vanilla extract. This fragrant mix is the flavor foundation you want to savor!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients and Add Apples

Gradually add the dry flour mixture into your creamed butter and sugar, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overwork the dough so the cookies stay light and tender. Now, gently fold in the diced Granny Smith apples. They add moisture and a bright tartness that perfectly contrasts the sweet, spiced dough. The apples also keep these cookies delightfully soft and moreish.

Step 5: Shape and Chill Cookie Dough

Scoop out dough balls about 1 1/2 tablespoons each and place them on a plate or tray that fits in your fridge or freezer. Chill for 20-30 minutes in the fridge, or 10-15 minutes in the freezer. This step is key to minimizing spread while baking and ensures your cookies stay thick and tender. Trust me, a little chilling is worth the wait for that perfect shape!

Step 6: Make Cinnamon Sugar Coating and Roll Dough Balls

While your dough chills, combine the remaining granulated sugar with cinnamon and nutmeg in a small bowl. Roll each dough ball generously in this spiced sugar coating for that iconic snickerdoodle crunch and flavor burst. I like to roll the balls twice to build up an extra flavorful, crisp top that is completely addictive.

Step 7: Bake and Cool the Cookies

Place the coated dough balls on your prepared cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the centers are set but still soft—this gives you a slightly chewy cookie with just enough crisp on the edges. Let the cookies rest on the sheet a couple of minutes to set before transferring to a cooling rack. Then enjoy the warm, spicy, sweet goodness!

How to Serve Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top right after baking for added sparkle and flavor. For an elegant twist, dust lightly with powdered sugar. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can instantly elevate the cookies for dessert occasions or holiday gatherings.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair fabulously with a hot cup of chai tea or rich coffee to complement the warm spices. For something cold and creamy, serve alongside vanilla ice cream—which contrasts beautifully with the cinnamon apple flavors and adds a dessert feeling that’s hard to beat.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies on a rustic wooden board with sprigs of fresh cinnamon sticks or apple slices for a festive look. You can also sandwich two cookies together with a cinnamon cream cheese frosting for a fun, indulgent treat that doubles the delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay tender and moist for up to 3-4 days, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the week. Layer the cookies with parchment paper to keep the tops nice and crisp without sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze both the dough and baked cookies! For dough, shape and chill balls, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time. Baked cookies freeze well too; just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked feeling, gently warm leftover cookies in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave for about 10 seconds. This melts any crisp sugars slightly and makes the apples inside taste fresh and juicy once again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples hold their texture nicely and add tartness, you can experiment with Fuji or Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter flavor. Just be mindful the moisture content and sweetness will vary slightly.

What if I don’t have cream of tartar?

Cream of tartar is essential for that tangy snickerdoodle flavor and texture, but if you’re out, you can try replacing it with an equal amount of baking powder, though the taste and texture might differ a bit.

How do I keep my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough is a must to reduce spreading. Also, measuring your flour accurately and using parchment or silicone mats helps maintain shape. Avoid over-greasing your baking surface, too.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. You might need to adjust liquid amounts slightly since gluten-free flours absorb moisture differently.

Why are my cookies not soft in the center?

Overbaking is the most common culprit. Take the cookies out when centers are still slightly soft to the touch and let them finish cooking on the pan; this keeps them chewy and tender inside.

Final Thoughts

These Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies are a brilliantly delicious way to enjoy the best of cozy spices and fresh apple flavors in every bite. With their tender, spiced centers and crisp cinnamon sugar tops, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser anytime you bake them. Whether for a holiday treat or a special everyday indulgence, don’t hesitate to make these cookies your next must-bake — your kitchen and taste buds will thank you!