Apple Snickerdoodles

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, then these Apple Snickerdoodles are just what you need! Each bite combines the cozy flavors of brown butter, warm cinnamon, and sweet caramelized apples. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day! Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, an afternoon snack, or just because you deserve something sweet, these cookies will surely warm your heart and home.

What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is to bring together. With a little prep time and some love, you can create these irresistible cookies that everyone will want to enjoy. So, let’s get into the kitchen and start baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting flavors: The blend of cinnamon and caramelized apples creates a warm and inviting taste that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers will feel confident whipping up these delicious treats.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these chewy cookies filled with gooey apple goodness!
• Make-ahead option: Chill the dough ahead of time so you can bake fresh cookies whenever cravings hit.
• Versatile treat: Great for dessert or as a sweet snack with coffee or tea!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Snickerdoodles use simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You might already have some of these in your pantry!

For the Caramelized Apples

• 250 grams peeled and finely diced gala apples (about 4-5 small apples)
• 50 grams dark brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• pinch of salt
• lemon juice from one small lemon

For the Cookie Dough

• 184 grams unsalted butter (European-style preferred) (browned to 150 grams, approximately 3/4 cup)
• 100 grams dark brown sugar
• 100 grams granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or extract
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
• 250 grams all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 5 grams cornstarch

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 66 grams granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Swap the fruit: Try using finely diced pears instead of apples for a different fruity twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
• Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dough for added warmth.

How to Make Apple Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Apples

Peel and finely dice the apples before tossing them with dark brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice. This step not only mixes in great flavors but also helps release moisture from the apples. Cooking them over low-medium heat until browned and caramelized enhances their natural sweetness. After about 10 minutes on the stove, pop them in the fridge to chill while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat. Watch as it crackles and sizzles—it’s working its magic! Stir occasionally until it turns golden brown with milk solids floating on top. This browning process adds rich depth to your cookies’ flavor. Once it reaches that perfect stage, cool it in another container in the fridge for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, ground cinnamon, fine sea salt, and cornstarch. This mixture ensures your cookies have just the right texture—soft yet chewy!

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Take your cooled brown butter and whisk it with dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until combined. Then add in your egg and egg yolk—this gives structure to your cookies—and mix until smooth. Gently fold in those chilled caramelized apples so every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Fold your dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined; be careful not to overmix! Cover this lovely dough tightly and chill it in the fridge for 2-3 hours. Chilling helps develop flavors while making them easier to scoop later.

Step 6: Preheat & Prepare Baking Sheet

Once ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—a must for easy cleanup! In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for coating.

Step 7: Roll & Coat Cookies

Using a cookie scoop (about 40 grams), roll each piece of dough into balls before rolling them generously in your cinnamon sugar mixture. Place them on your prepared baking sheet spaced out by about 2-3 inches—give them room to spread!

Step 8: Bake

Slide those beauties into your preheated oven! Bake for about 12-14 minutes until edges are set but tops remain puffy—slightly underdone is perfect since they’ll continue cooking after being removed from heat.

Step 9: Cool & Enjoy

Let your freshly baked Apple Snickerdoodles cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack. But if you’re feeling impatient like I often do—go ahead and enjoy one slightly warm!

Now you’re ready to share these delightful treats with friends or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Snickerdoodles

Baking these delicious Apple Snickerdoodles is a joy, and with a few helpful tips, you can make them even better!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh, crisp Gala apples not only add flavor but also texture. They hold their shape well during baking, creating that delightful gooey center.
• Chill the dough: Allowing your dough to chill for 2-3 hours helps the flavors meld together and prevents spreading during baking. This results in thicker, chewier cookies.
• Don’t skip the browning butter step: Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates your cookies from ordinary to extraordinary. Just be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist that enhances the fall flavors.
• Store properly: Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just thaw before enjoying!

How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodles

These Apple Snickerdoodles are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a cozy treat at home. Here are some fun ways to present and enjoy them!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes them look extra special.
• Cinnamon stick: Place a cinnamon stick on the plate for an elegant touch and an added hint of spice.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• Spiced chai tea: Enjoy these snickerdoodles with a cup of spiced chai tea for a comforting beverage that complements their flavors perfectly.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance out the richness of the cookies and adds vibrant colors to your dessert table.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce on top for an indulgent touch that brings out the caramelized apple flavor.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Apple Snickerdoodles will surely be a hit at any gathering! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Snickerdoodles are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for later, ensuring you have a delightful treat on hand whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, consider placing parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• If you’d like to freeze your snickerdoodles, allow them to cool completely first.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, simply take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a freshly baked taste, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Snickerdoodles!

Can I use other types of apples for Apple Snickerdoodles?

Absolutely! While Gala apples work wonderfully, you can experiment with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples too. Just ensure they are sweet and firm for the best texture.

How do I know when my Apple Snickerdoodles are done baking?

Your snickerdoodles are ready when the edges are set and golden brown while the tops remain slightly puffy and underdone. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I make these Apple Snickerdoodles without eggs?

Yes! You can try substituting each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). This will maintain moisture in your cookies.

Are Apple Snickerdoodles suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! These cookies store well and can be made ahead of time. Just follow the storage tips provided above to keep them fresh!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Apple Snickerdoodles as much as I do! The combination of caramelized apples with warm cinnamon brings comfort that’s perfect any time of year, especially during those cozy fall days. Don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures with friends and family; they’ll love indulging in these delicious treats. Happy baking!