Soft, chewy, and bursting with warm fall flavors, Cinnamon Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies bring a delightful twist to the classic snickerdoodle. With tender bits of diced apple and a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, these cookies are perfect for cozy days or holiday baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Perfection: The combination of apples and cinnamon captures the essence of fall in every bite.
• Soft and Chewy: The cream of tartar ensures a tender texture, while the diced apples add moisture.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and pantry staples make this recipe accessible to bakers of all levels.
• Great for Sharing: Perfect for cookie exchanges, parties, or as a sweet treat for family and friends.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough

• all-purpose flour
• baking soda
• cream of tartar
• salt
• ground cinnamon
• unsalted butter, softened
• granulated sugar
• brown sugar
• large eggs
• vanilla extract
• diced apples (peeled and small diced)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• granulated sugar
• ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, salt, and ground cinnamon.

3. Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully combined.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.

5. Shape Cookies

In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

6. Bake

Place the coated cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked.

7. Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies

Variations

• Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Spiced Twist: Enhance the fall flavor by adding ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or cloves to the dough.
• Apple Variety: Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked dough balls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive their fresh-baked texture.

FAQs

1. What type of apples work best for these cookies?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape and add a nice balance of flavor.

2. Can I skip the cream of tartar?

The cream of tartar is essential for the signature tang and soft texture of snickerdoodles. If unavailable, use 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar as a substitute.

3. How do I prevent the apples from making the dough too wet?

Dice the apples small and pat them dry with a paper towel before folding them into the dough.

4. Can I use pre-made cinnamon sugar?

Yes, pre-made cinnamon sugar works well for the coating. Adjust the quantity to taste.

5. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before baking.

6. How can I ensure my cookies don’t spread too much?

Chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking, especially if your kitchen is warm.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe doubles well for larger batches.

8. Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended to maintain a smooth texture, but it’s optional if you prefer the added fiber and color.

9. Can I add caramel bits?

Yes, adding caramel bits creates a delicious caramel-apple flavor.

10. Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes, they make a fantastic homemade gift. Pack them in decorative boxes or bags for a thoughtful touch.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies are the perfect combination of cozy fall flavors and classic cookie appeal. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday treat, or simply to enjoy with a warm drink, these cookies are sure to please. Try this recipe today for a taste of fall in every bite.

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