Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies

These Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic snickerdoodle, combining the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with the natural sweetness of apples. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these cookies offer a soft and chewy texture that everyone will love. The addition of diced Granny Smith apples adds a burst of flavor that sets them apart from traditional recipes. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet irresistible treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and warm spices creates a cookie that is bursting with flavor.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy cookies that are perfectly soft and chewy, making every bite delightful.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time, even if you’re a beginner baker!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.
• Great for Sharing: With about 35 cookies per batch, they are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking these delicious Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie sheet
• Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for achieving a light and fluffy dough by properly creaming the butter and sugars.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep your ingredients organized while preparing the recipe.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and consistent results.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 3 cups + 2 tbsp (406g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup (207g) sugar, plus 5 tbsp (65g) for rolling
• 1/2 cup (112g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups diced Granny Smith apples (about 3 apples, peeled)

For the Coating

• 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1 3/4 tsp ground nutmeg

How to Make Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Combine the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
2. Mix well until evenly distributed. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the unsalted butter, 1 cup sugar, and brown sugar.
2. Use your mixer to cream until light in color and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture.
2. Mix until fully incorporated after each addition.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. Stir in vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients from Step 2 into the wet mixture:
1. Mix until just combined; don’t over-mix.
2. Gently fold in diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Chill Cookie Dough

Use a cookie scoop to portion out dough balls (about one-and-a-half tablespoons each):
1. Place scoops onto a plate or tray for chilling.
2. Refrigerate for about 20-30 minutes or freeze for 10-15 minutes to firm up slightly.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl:
1. Combine remaining 5 tablespoons of sugar with ground cinnamon and nutmeg.
2. Mix well to ensure even distribution.

Step 8: Roll Dough Balls

Once chilled:
1. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
2. Place on prepared cookie sheet with about two inches between each cookie.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about:
1. 8–10 minutes, or until centers are just baked through but still soft.

Step 10: Cool Down

After baking:
1. Remove cookies from oven and let sit on the sheet for about 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

These Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy their delightful taste while they last—if they last that long!

How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies

Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, cold milk complements the warm spices of the cookies beautifully.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Take two cookies and sandwich your favorite ice cream in between for a delicious dessert twist.

With Whipped Cream

• Top a warm cookie with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for gatherings.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle warm caramel over the cookies for extra sweetness and a gourmet touch.

Paired with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon snack.

How to Perfect Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies

Achieving the perfect Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies is easy with these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much during baking.

• Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, crisp Granny Smith apples provide the best flavor and texture in these cookies.

• Do Not Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to avoid tough cookies.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing flour, which can make cookies dense.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on them as they bake. Remove them from the oven when they’re just set in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies

Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some delicious options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the spiced flavors of the cookies.

2. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

3. Hot Chocolate
   Rich hot chocolate pairs perfectly, creating a cozy dessert experience during chilly days.

4. Cheese Platter
   Add some sharp cheddar or creamy brie to contrast with the sweet flavors of the cookies.

5. Cinnamon Tea
   Brewed cinnamon tea accentuates the cinnamon flavor in the snickerdoodles for an aromatic pairing.

6. Caramel Apples
   These offer a crunchy, sweet alternative that ties in nicely with apple flavors found in the cookies.

7. Nut Mix
   A selection of nuts provides crunch and balance, making it an ideal snack alongside your treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the best Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
• Skipping chilling time: Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading during baking; don’t skip this step!
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking, which affects texture and flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

Freezing Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months; make sure they are completely cooled first.

Reheating Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on medium power for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh taste.
• Stovetop: Cover a skillet with low heat, place cookies inside, and warm for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies chewier?

To enhance chewiness, consider using more brown sugar than white sugar. Brown sugar retains moisture better.

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples work best for their tartness, you can experiment with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for different flavors.

How do I store leftover Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them following the guidelines above.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies by adding walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Are these Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies suitable for kids?

Yes! These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make with kids. They can help with mixing and rolling the dough!

Final Thoughts

These Apple Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful blend of soft, chewy goodness with a burst of apple flavor. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy afternoons at home, they lend themselves well to customization—try adding nuts or swapping apple varieties based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!