Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

I thought I knew everything about snickerdoodles until my neighbor brought over a batch with tiny apple pieces mixed right into the dough. The Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic treat, perfect for any occasion. With warm flavors and sweet apple bits, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends during gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The addition of apples brings a fresh twist to traditional snickerdoodles, making them even more enjoyable.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and readily available ingredients mean you can whip these up in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a snack at home, these cookies fit right in.
• Aromatic Appeal: The scent of cinnamon and apples wafting from your oven will have everyone eager to taste these treats.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices or add nuts to make them your own!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is crucial for combining your ingredients effectively without spills.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Hand mixer or whisk: This tool helps achieve a fluffy texture in your cookie dough by properly creaming together the butter and sugars.

Ingredients

To make these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 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

For the Apple Filling

• 3 cups granny smith apples, peeled and diced

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 5 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 3/4 tsp ground nutmeg

How to Make Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for ensuring that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cream of tartar
3. Baking soda
4. Salt

Whisk until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, beat together:
1. Softened butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar

Use a hand mixer or whisk until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract until incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 7: Fold in Apples

Gently fold in the diced granny smith apples into the dough until evenly distributed.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Ground cinnamon
3. Ground nutmeg

This will be used to coat the cookies before baking.

Step 9: Form Cookies

Scoop portions of dough (about two tablespoons each) and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture before placing them on prepared baking sheets.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 8 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Enjoy your freshly baked Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies!

How to Serve Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

These delightful Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing their delicious taste. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Serve with Warm Beverages

• Coffee – Pair these cookies with a rich cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Tea – A soothing herbal or spiced tea complements the flavors of apple and cinnamon beautifully.
• Hot Apple Cider – The warmth of apple cider enhances the cookie’s apple notes.

Create an Ice Cream Sandwich

• Vanilla Ice Cream – Sandwich vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a classic dessert.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream – Use cinnamon-flavored ice cream for an extra layer of spice.

Add a Drizzle

• Caramel Sauce – A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds sweetness that pairs well with the cookies.
• Chocolate Sauce – For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce creates a delightful contrast.

How to Perfect Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

To achieve the perfect batch of Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies, follow these tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Bold choice of apples – Use Granny Smith apples for their tartness, balancing the sweetness of the sugars.
• Chill the dough – Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading and improve texture.
• Measure ingredients carefully – Accurate measurements ensure consistency in your cookies’ rise and flavor.
• Rotate baking sheets – Halfway through baking, rotate your sheets to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Watch baking time closely – Remove cookies from the oven when they are slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the middle.

Best Side Dishes for Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delightful options.

1. Cinnamon-Infused Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, this whipped cream complements the spices in your cookies beautifully.
2. Apple Slices with Nut Butter – Fresh apple slices served with almond or peanut butter offer a crunchy contrast to soft cookies.
3. Cheese Platter – A variety of cheeses can provide a savory balance to your sweet treats, especially sharp cheddar.
4. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies – For those who love variety, oatmeal raisin cookies can provide another texture and flavor profile.
5. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and balances out the richness of snickerdoodles.
6. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy side that pairs wonderfully with cookie flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the outcome.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t cream well with sugar, resulting in dense cookies. Always use softened butter for the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can dry out your cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping chilling time: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading while baking. Don’t rush this step if you want thicker cookies.
• Ignoring apple preparation: Using apples that are too watery can make your cookies soggy. Make sure to dice them small and pat them dry before adding.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds per cookie for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat for a minute or two, watching closely not to burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Can I substitute the apples?

Yes, you can use other fruits like pears or even dried fruits if you prefer.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.

How long do these cookies last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they last about one week at room temperature.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or chocolate chips.

What makes these snickerdoodles special?

The addition of apple and spices gives a unique twist, making them perfect for fall treats.

Final Thoughts

Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies are not just delicious; they are also versatile. You can customize them with different fruits or spices based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warmth of fall flavors wrapped in every bite!