These Apple Snickerdoodles combine the warm, cozy flavor of cinnamon sugar with the sweet, tart bite of fresh apples. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a simple family treat, these cookies are soft and chewy, offering a delightful twist on the classic snickerdoodle. The addition of apple chunks enhances each bite, making them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cookie Dough
- For Rolling
- How to Make Apple Snickerdoodles
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
- Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
- Step 5: Combine Mixtures
- Step 6: Fold in Apples
- Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
- Step 8: Form Cookie Balls
- Step 9: Bake Cookies
- Step 10: Cool Cookies
- How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodles
- With Coffee or Tea
- Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Dessert Platter
- Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting
- As a Snack
- How to Perfect Apple Snickerdoodles
- Best Side Dishes for Apple Snickerdoodles
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Apple Snickerdoodles
- Reheating Apple Snickerdoodles
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Apple Snickerdoodles different from regular snickerdoodles?
- Can I use other fruits in my snickerdoodles?
- How do I prevent my snickerdoodles from spreading too much?
- How long do Apple Snickerdoodles last at room temperature?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon sugar and fresh apples creates a mouthwatering taste that embodies fall.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies is a breeze for all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are great for festive gatherings, casual get-togethers, or just as a sweet surprise at home.
- Chewy Texture: The use of butter and the right baking time results in irresistibly chewy cookies that everyone will crave.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or other spices to tailor the recipe to your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cookie-making experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps you keep wet and dry ingredients separate until it’s time to combine them.
- Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 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 oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. 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:
1. Beat together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the large egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture:
1. Beat until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients:
1. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the chopped apple with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl:
1. Mix together ¼ cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for rolling.
Step 8: Form Cookie Balls
Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls:
1. Coat each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 9: Bake Cookies
Place dough balls on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart:
1. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are golden brown and centers are set.
Step 10: Cool Cookies
Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes:
1. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Apple Snickerdoodles!
How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodles
Apple Snickerdoodles are perfect for various occasions. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven or as part of a dessert spread, there are numerous delightful ways to serve these cookies.
With Coffee or Tea
- Pair your Apple Snickerdoodles with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverages complement the cinnamon and apple flavors beautifully.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Create delicious ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream between two cookies. This combination is irresistibly creamy and satisfying!
Dessert Platter
- Arrange Apple Snickerdoodles on a dessert platter alongside other cookies and sweets. They add a lovely autumn touch to any gathering.
Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie for added sweetness and richness. This elevates the flavor profile even further!
As a Snack
- Enjoy Apple Snickerdoodles as an afternoon snack with a glass of milk. Their chewy texture makes them perfect for dipping!
How to Perfect Apple Snickerdoodles
To ensure your Apple Snickerdoodles turn out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.
Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp apples will provide the best flavor and texture in your cookies. Choose your favorite variety for a personal touch.
Room temperature butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugars. This helps achieve the light and fluffy consistency needed for perfect cookies.
Don’t overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix only until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Chill dough if necessary: If your dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling into balls. This will help maintain shape while baking.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Snickerdoodles
Apple Snickerdoodles pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their sweet, spiced flavor. Here are some great options:
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the spices in the cookies.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies or serve on the side for dipping to enhance their flavor.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich snickerdoodle taste.
Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda alongside nuts and dried fruits for an elegant touch that complements the sweetness.
Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate pairs perfectly with these cookies during chilly days, creating a cozy treat experience.
Chai Latte: The spiced flavors in chai blend beautifully with Apple Snickerdoodles, making this an ideal beverage companion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Apple Snickerdoodles can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure great results. Here are some key pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t cream properly with the sugars, leading to dense cookies. Always use softened butter at room temperature for the best texture.
- Skipping the cream of tartar: This ingredient is crucial for achieving that classic snickerdoodle tang and chewiness. Don’t omit it; it’s essential for flavor and texture!
- Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cookies dry. Use a spoon to fluff up the flour, then spoon it into your measuring cup without packing it down.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined after adding the dry ingredients, and then gently fold in the apples.
- Ignoring baking time: Cookies continue to cook after they come out of the oven. Remove them when they’re slightly underbaked for a soft texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Apple Snickerdoodles in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Freezing Apple Snickerdoodles
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until firm.
- Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Snickerdoodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Apple Snickerdoodles:
What makes Apple Snickerdoodles different from regular snickerdoodles?
Apple Snickerdoodles include fresh apple chunks, adding a sweet and fruity twist to the classic cookie recipe that enhances both flavor and texture.
Can I use other fruits in my snickerdoodles?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with fruits like pears or even berries. Just adjust the quantity based on moisture content.
How do I prevent my snickerdoodles from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough before baking helps prevent spreading. You can chill it for about 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
How long do Apple Snickerdoodles last at room temperature?
They last about 3-4 days in an airtight container at room temperature while maintaining their softness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Snickerdoodles are a delightful treat perfect for fall or any time you crave something sweet. With their soft, chewy texture and warm cinnamon flavor, they are versatile enough to customize with different fruits or spices. Try this recipe today and enjoy the deliciousness of these unique cookies!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Apple Snickerdoodles
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Apple Snickerdoodles, a warm and inviting twist on the classic cookie. These soft and chewy treats are infused with fresh apple chunks and coated in cinnamon sugar, capturing the essence of fall in every bite. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family moments, they are easy to make and customizable to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed with a hot beverage, turned into ice cream sandwiches, or served alongside a dessert platter, Apple Snickerdoodles are sure to please everyone!
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 one bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture; blend well.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples.
- Form tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon before placing them on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges turn golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg