Name: Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 30 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· 4.9 from 12 reviews

If autumn had a scent and flavor all its own, I’m convinced it would be the cozy and nostalgic combination found in Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies. Imagine the classic snickerdoodle—soft, chewy, and sugar-dusted—elevated by juicy bites of tart Granny Smith apples and a warm blend of cinnamon and nutmeg. These cookies bring together comfort, freshness, and delightful texture, making them impossible to resist, whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself to a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies lies in a few cornerstone ingredients that each play a vital role. From the chewiness delivered by cream of tartar to the warmth of cinnamon and the bright bite of fresh apple, this ingredient list is simple yet truly essential for authentic fall flavor and that nostalgic snickerdoodle charm.

All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that creates the cookie’s classic soft structure without making them too cakey.
Cream of tartar: This classic snickerdoodle element gives just the right amount of chew and that signature tang.
Baking soda: Ensures the cookies rise and stay pillowy with a delicate crumb.
Salt: Just a hint wakes up all the other flavors; don’t skip it!
Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and the best melt-in-your-mouth texture—soft butter makes mixing a breeze.
Granulated sugar: Gives these cookies their sweet base and that classic crunchy exterior.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and the subtlest caramelly undertone that pairs perfectly with apples.
Eggs: Key for binding the dough together and locking in all that tender moisture.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the warm, comforting notes that are signature to these cookies.
Granny Smith apples (peeled and diced): The star ingredient—these tart apples add natural sweetness, keeping every bite juicy and fresh.
Ground cinnamon: Delivers that unmistakable spiced flavor that brings all the autumnal warmth.
Ground nutmeg: A little goes a long way to add gentle heat and earthiness, making the cinnamon shine even more.

How to Make Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare for Baking

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures cookies bake evenly and rise beautifully. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and perfectly golden bottoms that never stick.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Even mixing here means every cookie bakes with the same tender texture and that signature subtle tang. Set the bowl aside for later—having your dry ingredients ready will make the next steps super smooth.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to a large mixing bowl. Beat this mixture on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes until it looks pale and fluffy, which helps create airy dough. Now add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract for that extra cozy aroma.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients and Add Apples

Gradually add your whisked dry ingredients to the butter-sugar-egg mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—overworking the dough can make cookies tough. Once the flour is just incorporated, gently fold in the diced Granny Smith apples. The dough will look a little moist—that’s how you know bites will be juicy and bursting with apple in every mouthful.

Step 5: Shape and Chill Cookie Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough into balls (about 1 1/2 tablespoons each). Place them on a plate or tray lined with parchment so they don’t stick, then pop them into your fridge for 20-30 minutes (or freezer for 10-15 minutes if you’re short on time). Chilling helps the dough hold its shape and bakes up into perfect chewy rounds instead of spreading too much on the sheet.

Step 6: Make Cinnamon Sugar Coating and Roll Dough Balls

While the dough chills, stir together the remaining granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. This fragrant mix becomes the spicy-sweet armor for your cookies. Roll each chilled dough ball thoroughly to ensure every bite is covered in that signature snickerdoodle spiced crunch—roll them twice if you’re feeling fancy!

Step 7: Bake and Cool the Cookies

Space out your coated dough balls on the prepared cookie sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each to allow room for spreading. Bake for 8-10 minutes, just until the centers are set but still soft. Let the cookies rest on the pan for a few minutes (they’ll keep baking a touch from residual heat) before moving them to a rack to cool completely. The result: Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies with crisp edges, chewy centers, and irresistible aroma.

How to Serve Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies

Garnishes

For an impressive finish, dust your cookies with a light sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar right as they come out of the oven. If you want to make them truly special, drizzle a quick vanilla glaze or dip half of each cookie in melted white chocolate for an elegant touch that pairs beautifully with the spiced apple flavor.

Side Dishes

Enjoy these cookies alongside a mug of hot apple cider, creamy chai tea, or classic coffee to highlight the warmth of the spices. For a festive gathering, serve with a simple fruit salad or cinnamon-swirled yogurt, letting the cookies shine as the main event but giving your table a cozy, seasonal spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies in a rustic basket lined with a checkered cloth for an autumn-inspired centerpiece, or pack them up in cellophane bags tied with twine for heartfelt homemade gifts. For dessert boards, arrange them with apple slices, caramel sauce, and cinnamon sticks—they’re perfect for dunking, gifting, or sharing at fall gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any cookies left after the first day, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for up to 3-4 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to maintain maximal moisture for even longer-lasting freshness.

Freezing

To freeze, you can place baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll keep for up to three months—just grab one whenever you crave that spiced apple cinnamon hug! Alternatively, freeze scooped, unbaked cookie dough balls, then simply thaw and bake fresh for the same just-out-of-the-oven greatness.

Reheating

If your Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies firm up a little too much, just pop them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm them gently in a low oven for a few minutes. This will revive their chewy texture and bring out all the aromas that make them so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are my favorite for their tartness and firm bite, feel free to experiment with honeycrisp or gala apples for a sweeter profile. Just be aware that softer varieties may release more moisture into the dough.

Do I really need to chill the dough?

Yes, chilling helps the Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies hold their shape and keeps the centers chewy. Skipping this step can lead to flatter cookies with less structure, especially because of the moisture from the apples.

Can I substitute margarine for butter?

You can, but butter brings a richer flavor and better texture to these cookies. Margarine will work in a pinch, but your cookies may spread a bit more and have a slightly different taste.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Look for edges that are just set and golden, with centers that still appear slightly soft. The cookies will continue to bake a little as they cool on the sheet—this ensures the classic snickerdoodle chew!

Are Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies good for gifting?

They’re wonderful for gifting! The unique spiced apple twist feels homemade and thoughtful, and they stay soft for days—just nestle them in a pretty tin or box to create a heartfelt edible present.

Final Thoughts

When you’re ready for a little something extra special in your cookie jar, Spiced Apple Cinnamon Snickerdoodle Cookies are truly the ultimate cozy treat. With their warm spices, juicy apples, and perfect chewy bite, I promise they’ll be a hit with anyone lucky enough to taste them. If you bake a batch, I’d love to hear how you serve or share yours—happy baking!