If you adore the cozy embrace of cinnamon sugar cookies but crave a little extra warmth and spice, this Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe will become your new go-to treat. These cookies are a delightful twist on the classic snickerdoodle, featuring a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and creates a soft, chewy bite packed with comforting flavor. Perfectly crackled on top and dusted with a spiced sugar coating, these cookies are a heartwarming way to brighten any day or share with those you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe are straightforward yet thoughtfully chosen to balance texture and flavor beautifully. Each component plays a vital role, from the rich, creamy butter giving tenderness to the dough, to the spice blend that adds a cozy, aromatic punch.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides the perfect rich base that keeps cookies soft and flavorful.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with that classic snickerdoodle crunch.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add moisture for that chewy center.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Amplifies the sweetness and complements the warm spices.
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy but tender structure for these delightful cookies.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar: Gives snickerdoodles their signature tang and chewiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the dough rise just enough for a light texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Used in the coating for that sweet crunch on the outside.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice for that unmistakable snickerdoodle warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle earthiness to the spice mix.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Brings depth and a gentle hint of holiday cheer.
How to Make Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure a hot baking environment for perfect cookie texture. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar with a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, contributing to the cookies’ tender crumb.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then add vanilla extract to bring sweetness and depth to the dough’s flavor profile.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined; overmixing can make the cookies tough.
Step 5: Prepare Spice Coating
Mix the topping sugar with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a small bowl. This spice coating will give the snickerdoodles their signature crackly, flavorful crust.
Step 6: Shape, Coat, and Bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll them generously in the spiced sugar. Place the coated dough balls on the lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are set and tops have that classic crackled look. Let them cool slightly on the sheet to firm up before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are perfect on their own, sprinkling a tiny pinch of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving adds a touch of elegance and intensifies their warming aroma.
Side Dishes
A warm cup of chai tea or a frothy vanilla latte pairs wonderfully with these spiced snickerdoodles. For a kid-friendly version, cold milk is a classic and nostalgic companion. These drinks enhance the spices and make snack time even more comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking a few snickerdoodles with layers of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for a simple yet irresistible dessert parfait. Alternatively, sandwich two cookies with cinnamon cream cheese filling for a delightful twist that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your baked Spiced Snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay soft and chewy for up to a week. Placing a slice of bread inside the container can help maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze either the dough balls or baked cookies. For dough, roll into balls, coat with the spice mix, then freeze on a sheet before transferring to a container. Baked cookies freeze well in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months — just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To refresh the warmth and softness, reheat cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This brings back that just-baked magic without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I substitute spices in the Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the nutmeg and cloves according to your taste or add a pinch of ginger for a different spice twist. The cinnamon remains essential to preserve the classic snickerdoodle flavor.
Why is cream of tartar important in this recipe?
Cream of tartar is key for snickerdoodles as it adds the signature tang and helps create the chewy texture. It also reacts with baking soda to help the cookies rise just right.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend works well here. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or other binders to mimic the structure flour normally provides.
How do I know when the snickerdoodles are perfectly baked?
The edges should be set and lightly golden, while the tops will have crackles—a hallmark of great snickerdoodles. Be careful not to overbake to keep them soft inside.
Can these cookies be made vegan?
To adapt this Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe for a vegan diet, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs or another vegan egg replacer. Adjust baking times slightly if needed, as these swaps can affect texture.
Final Thoughts
This Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe is one of those joyful baking experiences that fills your home with warmth and your taste buds with happiness. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, gift-giving, or just because, these cookies deliver satisfying spice and nostalgia in every bite. Dive in and enjoy creating a batch of these spiced delights—you’ll wonder how your cookie jar ever survived without them!
Print
Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Spiced Snickerdoodles are classic cinnamon sugar cookies with a delightful twist of warm spices like nutmeg and cloves, perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Ideal for holiday baking or anytime you crave a comforting, aromatic treat.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Spice Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, which helps to create a tender cookie texture. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Prepare Spice Coating: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to create the aromatic spice coating that will give these snickerdoodles their signature flavor.
- Form and Coat Dough Balls: Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the prepared spice coating thoroughly to ensure every bite is bursting with spice. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading during baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops appear crackled. This indicates the perfect balance of a crispy exterior with a soft, chewy center. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps maintain their texture.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature butter and eggs to ensure proper creaming and incorporation.
- You can substitute ground cloves with ground allspice if desired.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- If you prefer softer cookies, reduce baking time slightly and monitor closely.
- These cookies freeze well; freeze the dough balls before coating and baking for fresh cookies later.
