Apple Snickerdoodles
These Apple Snickerdoodles combine the warm, cozy flavor of cinnamon sugar with the sweet, tart bite of fresh apples. Perfect for various occasions, these cookies offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Their soft and chewy texture, combined with the unique addition of apple chunks, make them an irresistible treat for fall gatherings or family dessert nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of cinnamon sugar and fresh apples creates a mouthwatering taste that’s both comforting and refreshing.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an afternoon snack, these Apple Snickerdoodles are versatile enough for any event.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: Each bite is packed with a soft and chewy goodness that feels like a warm hug.
- Customizable Additions: Feel free to add nuts or other spices to make these cookies your own!
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some key items you will need to create these delicious Apple Snickerdoodles.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in organizing your ingredients efficiently during preparation.
- Baking sheet: A quality baking sheet ensures even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly baked cookies.
- Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier after baking.

Ingredients
To make these delightful Apple Snickerdoodles, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cookies
- 1 cup (130 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon fine salt
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped
For Rolling
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How to Make Apple Snickerdoodles
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking soda
3. Cream of tartar
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Fine salt
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a separate large bowl, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar
until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the chopped apple until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Ground cinnamon
This will be used for rolling the cookie dough balls.
Step 8: Form Cookie Balls
Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls. Then coat each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Step 9: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 10: Bake Cookies
Bake for about 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown while ensuring that centers remain set.
Step 11: Cool Cookies
Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your homemade Apple Snickerdoodles!
How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodles
These Apple Snickerdoodles are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a few creative serving ideas. Whether for a cozy gathering or a simple treat at home, these suggestions will help you enjoy them even more.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm flavors of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of caramel adds a rich sweetness that complements the apple and cinnamon, elevating your cookie experience.
Side of Fresh Whipped Cream
- Serve your cookies with freshly whipped cream for a light, airy texture that balances the dense cookie.
With Hot Apple Cider
- Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of apple cider to enhance the apple flavors and create an inviting atmosphere.
On a Cookie Platter
- Arrange your Apple Snickerdoodles on a decorative platter with seasonal fruits for an appealing presentation at parties or gatherings.
How to Perfect Apple Snickerdoodles
To ensure you achieve the best results with your Apple Snickerdoodles, keep these tips in mind.
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Use Fresh Apples: Freshly chopped apples maintain their crunch and flavor better than pre-packaged options, enhancing the overall taste.
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Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps improve the texture and prevents spreading during baking.
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Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid dense cookies. Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Check for Doneness: Look for golden edges and slightly underbaked centers; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after removal from the oven.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Snickerdoodles
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Snickerdoodles can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:
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Cheese Platter: A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy brie offers a savory contrast that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the snickerdoodles.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit makes for a wholesome side that complements the cookie’s flavors.
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Chai Latte: This spiced tea beverage enhances cinnamon flavors while providing a warming drink option alongside your cookies.
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Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of snickerdoodle in melted chocolate for an indulgent treat that’s fun to share.
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Mini Pumpkin Muffins: These muffins bring another fall flavor to your table, creating a festive theme when served together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your Apple Snickerdoodles turn out perfectly. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Incorrect measurements: Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy. This will prevent dough from being too dry or too wet.
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
- Skipping the chilling time: For better flavor and texture, consider chilling the dough before baking. This step helps the cookies retain their shape.
- Not rolling in cinnamon sugar enough: Make sure to coat each dough ball well in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This adds essential flavor and crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Apple Snickerdoodles in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Snickerdoodles
- Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for longer storage.
- They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Apple Snickerdoodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cookies for about 5 minutes. This will restore their softness.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally. This method keeps them soft and warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Apple Snickerdoodles:
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! Any apple variety you enjoy will work well, but tart apples like Granny Smith balance perfectly with the sweetness.
How do I make my Apple Snickerdoodles chewier?
To achieve a chewier texture, slightly underbake them and allow them to cool on the baking sheet before transferring.
Are there any substitutes for butter?
Yes, you can use plant-based butter or coconut oil as alternatives while maintaining similar flavors and textures.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Certainly! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding chopped nuts or dairy-free chocolate chips for extra flavor.
How long does it take to prepare Apple Snickerdoodles?
Prep time is approximately 15 minutes with an additional 8–10 minutes of baking, making this recipe quick and easy!
Final Thoughts
These Apple Snickerdoodles are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any fall gathering or cozy night in. You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins, such as nuts or spices, to suit your taste. Try making this delightful treat today; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Apple Snickerdoodles
Discover the delightful taste of Apple Snickerdoodles, where the classic flavors of cinnamon sugar meet the sweet and tart essence of fresh apples. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to casual afternoon treats. With their soft and chewy texture, each bite is a comforting reminder of fall. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite mix-ins, these Apple Snickerdoodles are sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup (130 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon fine salt
- ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 medium apple, peeled and finely chopped
- ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar for rolling
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped apple.
- In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon for rolling.
- Roll tablespoon-sized dough portions into balls and coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Arrange on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are golden and centers are set.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 138
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 72mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg