If you’re on the lookout for a cookie that dazzles with warmth, spice, and that classic snickerdoodle charm, you’ve just found a true gem. This Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe transforms the beloved cinnamon sugar treat into a cozy, fragrant experience by adding a delightful blend of nutmeg and cloves alongside the traditional cinnamon. Each bite offers a perfect balance of soft chewiness and a crackled sugar-spice crust that invites one more cookie—and then another. Trust me, once you try this version, you’ll wonder how snickerdoodles could ever be without those extra spices bringing them to life.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind these spiced snickerdoodles lies in a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that come together like a dream. Every element plays a specific role in crafting that tender crumb, signature tang, and irresistible spice coating that makes this cookie so unforgettable.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender texture, perfectly balancing the spices.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and contributes to the delightful crackle on top.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the dough together and add moisture for chewiness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of the cookie, giving it the perfect bite.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar: Adds the classic tangy flavor and helps achieve that snickerdoodle chewiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the cookies, ensuring they rise just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the spice blend.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Used for the coating, creating the sweet, crunchy exterior.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice of the coating, giving that signature snickerdoodle warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, cozy depth to the spice mix.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Brings a hint of spicy complexity that elevates this Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe.
How to Make Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready and Prep Your Pan
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot by the time your dough is ready. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze—this little prep step saves so much hassle later.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together your softened butter and sugar until they’re light, fluffy, and practically glowing with promise. This process incorporates air, which helps give your cookies a tender texture. Then beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully blended, followed by a splash of vanilla extract for that comforting warmth.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
Whisk together all your dry ingredients—the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt—in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution so every cookie gets the perfect balance of tang and rise. Then add the dry mix gradually to your butter mixture, folding just until combined to keep the dough tender.
Step 4: Make the Spiced Sugar Coating
Combine the ¼ cup sugar with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a small bowl. This vibrant blend is what sets this Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe apart, coating each bite with that irresistible scent and flavor.
Step 5: Shape and Coat the Dough
Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls, then generously roll each ball in the spiced sugar mixture until it’s fully coated. Spacing them about 2 inches apart on your baking sheet gives them room to spread without crowding.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake your cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, keeping an eye out for set edges and that charming crackled top. Once out of the oven, let them rest on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling step helps them firm up just right without losing that soft center.
How to Serve Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of extra ground cinnamon over the warm cookies for a little extra sparkle and scent. Alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a delicate sweetness and festive look that’s perfect for gatherings or gift boxes.
Side Dishes
Serve your spiced snickerdoodles alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa, chai tea, or even a freshly brewed coffee to enhance their spicy sweetness. They also pair beautifully with creamy vanilla ice cream, making a simple but indulgent dessert duo that everyone will adore.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these cookies in a rustic tin lined with a cozy cloth napkin for a charming gift, or stack them on a pretty plate tied with twine for an inviting homemade treat display. You can even sandwich them with a smear of cinnamon cream cheese frosting for an exciting twist on the classic cookie experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover spiced snickerdoodles fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and flavorful for up to a week, perfect for enjoying a little sweetness throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep these scrumptious treats even longer, freeze the baked cookies between layers of parchment paper in a sealed container or freezer bag. They’ll maintain their texture and taste well for up to 3 months—ready for a quick thaw whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
To revive the fresh-baked softness, pop the cookies into a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes or microwave them for 10–15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or you’ll lose their delightful chewy center.
FAQs
Can I make this Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best texture.
What if I don’t have cream of tartar on hand?
Cream of tartar adds tang and helps with the chewy texture, but you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar combined with baking powder. However, for that authentic snickerdoodle taste, cream of tartar is your best bet.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can, but reduce the added salt slightly to prevent over-seasoning. Unsalted butter gives you better control over the final flavor balance.
How do I keep my cookies soft and prevent spreading?
Make sure your butter is fully softened but not melted, and chill your dough if your kitchen is warm. Proper spacing on the pan and baking just until edges set also help keep your snickerdoodles delightfully soft.
Can I double this Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe?
Definitely! This recipe doubles easily. Just be sure to mix in a large enough bowl and bake on multiple sheets as needed, rotating them halfway to ensure even baking.
Final Thoughts
This Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe is an absolute winner whether you want to cozy up on a chilly afternoon or impress your friends with a timeless, flavorful treat. The combination of warm spices and classic textures makes these cookies not just delicious but unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to try them and share in this little slice of homemade happiness!
Print
Spiced Snickerdoodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic spiced snickerdoodles with a delightful twist of warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These soft, chewy cookies are coated in a fragrant spice sugar mixture and baked to perfection, offering a cozy, comforting treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 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 and Prepare: 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 the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time to incorporate air and add moisture, followed by mixing in the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough and keep the cookies tender.
- Prepare Spice Coating: In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar with ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This mixture will coat the cookie dough balls and add a delicious spiced aroma and flavor.
- Shape and Coat Dough: Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls, then thoroughly roll each ball in the prepared spice coating mixture until fully covered. This step gives the cookies their signature spiced exterior. Place the coated dough balls spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for spreading.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops have developed a crackled texture. After removing from the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely for best texture and flavor development.
Notes
- For softer cookies, slightly underbake and allow them to finish setting on the baking sheet.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- You can add a pinch of ground ginger for an extra layer of warmth in the spice blend.
- Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
