Apple Snickerdoodles

These Apple Snickerdoodles are the perfect blend of cozy fall flavors, featuring brown butter, warm cinnamon, and caramelized apples. Ideal for any occasion from casual gatherings to festive celebrations, these cookies are bound to impress. The gooey apples nestled within a chewy snickerdoodle coated in cinnamon sugar make each bite an irresistible treat that perfectly captures the spirit of autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of caramelized apples and warm cinnamon creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these delightful cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert tables, coffee breaks, or holiday parties, they fit any occasion.
• Unique Twist: This recipe adds a fun twist to traditional snickerdoodles with the addition of apples.
• Chewy Texture: The balance of soft interiors and slightly crisp edges makes these cookies wonderfully satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your Apple Snickerdoodles turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients for a smooth cookie dough.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and helps with easy clean-up after baking.

Ingredients

These apple snickerdoodles combine the cozy fall flavors of brown butter, warm cinnamon, and caramelized apples. The gooey warm apples inside a chewy, cinnamon sugar-coated snickerdoodle makes these an addicting treat to get you into the fall baking mood!

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 Coating

• 66 grams granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Apple Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

1. Peel & finely dice the apples.
2. Toss them together with dark brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and lemon juice until combined.
3. Heat the apples on the stove over low-medium heat for about 10 minutes until browned & caramelized. Set aside in the fridge to chill.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

1. Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat until it crackles and sizzles.
2. Stir occasionally until golden milk solids form at the bottom and it turns golden brown.
3. Remove from heat and pour into another container; cool in the fridge for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, cinnamon, salt, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. Whisk together cooled brown butter, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until combined.
2. Add egg and egg yolk; whisk until smooth.
3. Gently fold in cooled caramelized apples until evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Form the Dough

1. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; fold until just mixed into a dough.
2. Tightly cover and chill dough for 2-3 hours.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for coating.
3. Use a cookie scoop to portion dough; roll in cinnamon sugar until generously coated.
4. Space cookies 2-3 inches apart on the baking sheet.

Step 7: Finish Baking

1. Bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are set and golden brown but tops are slightly underdone.
2. Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to cooling rack or enjoy slightly warm!

How to Serve Apple Snickerdoodles

Apple snickerdoodles are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their warm, chewy texture and sweet apple filling make them perfect for sharing with friends and family or savoring on your own.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair your freshly baked apple snickerdoodles with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and flavor.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an extra indulgent touch that enhances their sweetness.

Accompanied by Hot Apple Cider

• Serve these cookies alongside a steaming mug of hot apple cider, making for a cozy fall-inspired snack.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include your apple snickerdoodles on a dessert platter with other treats like brownies, cookies, and bars for a festive gathering.

With Whipped Cream

• Top the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess that pairs perfectly with the spiced apple flavors.

How to Perfect Apple Snickerdoodles

To ensure your apple snickerdoodles turn out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind. A few simple adjustments can elevate this delightful recipe even further.

• Use Fresh Apples: Opt for fresh gala apples for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using old apples that may have lost their juiciness.
• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 2-3 hours helps the flavors meld together and prevents spreading during baking.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping it directly from the bag. This helps avoid dense cookies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven; they should be slightly underdone when you take them out to maintain their chewy texture.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon sugar coating for an extra layer of flavor.
• Store Properly: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Snickerdoodles

While apple snickerdoodles are delightful on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cheese Platter: A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy brie contrasts nicely with the sweetness of snickerdoodles.
2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the rich flavors of the cookies.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a refreshing side that complements dessert.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: A lighter option, chia seed pudding adds a healthy twist while maintaining a sweet profile.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of apple snickerdoodle into warm chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat.
6. Nut Mix: A combination of roasted nuts adds crunch and savory notes that pair well with sweet flavors.
7. Pumpkin Soup: For something savory, serve alongside a warm bowl of pumpkin soup; its spices match beautifully with cinnamon.
8. Coffee or Tea: Offering freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying these treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and there are common pitfalls that can affect your Apple Snickerdoodles. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Fresh Apples: Fresh apples can release too much moisture, making the dough soggy. Always use diced apples that have been cooked down to caramelize their flavors.
• Not Browning the Butter: Skipping the browning step can lead to a less flavorful cookie. Take time to brown the butter properly for a nutty taste.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Gently fold the dry ingredients until just combined.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Chilling the dough is essential for perfect texture. Make sure to chill it for at least 2-3 hours before baking.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 350°F for best results.
• Not Using Parchment Paper: Baking directly on a pan may cause sticking and uneven baking. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Snickerdoodles in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days when refrigerated.

Freezing Apple Snickerdoodles

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container after they harden; they will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Snickerdoodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on high for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Snickerdoodles:

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

You can use different apple varieties, but Gala apples provide a nice sweetness and texture. Try Honeycrisp or Fuji for variation!

How do I make my Apple Snickerdoodles softer?

To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven while they’re still slightly puffy in the center.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

Store leftover Apple Snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes! You can freeze Apple Snickerdoodles by placing them in freezer-safe containers or bags after they cool completely.

How do I customize these cookies?

Feel free to add nuts or other spices like nutmeg for added flavor. You can also try using different sugars or sweeteners!

Final Thoughts

These Apple Snickerdoodles bring warmth and comfort with every bite, making them perfect for fall celebrations or cozy evenings at home. Their chewy texture combined with caramelized apples makes them irresistible! Don’t hesitate to mix things up by adding nuts or trying different apple varieties. Enjoy baking!