If you're a fan of the classic snickerdoodle but want to add a cozy, autumnal twist, these Cinnamon Maple Snickerdoodles are a must-try. They bring together the warm spice of cinnamon and the rich sweetness of maple syrup for a perfect fall treat. Easy to bake and even easier to enjoy, these cookies will fill your home with an irresistible aroma.
Butter: Provides the base for a rich, tender cookie. Make sure it's softened for easy creaming.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create that classic snickerdoodle texture.
Pure maple syrup: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness and moistness to the cookies.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, aromatic notes.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie, providing structure and chewiness.
Cream of tartar: Gives snickerdoodles their signature tang and helps activate the baking soda.
Baking soda: Leavens the cookies, making them soft and fluffy.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Cinnamon: Infuses the cookies with warmth and spice.
These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of chai or a glass of cold milk. For a decadent dessert, sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies. You can also crumble them over a bowl of Greek yogurt for a sweet breakfast treat.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures an even bake and easy cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter, granulated sugar, and maple syrup until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Next, add in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract to complete your wet mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and two teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with one tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Shape your dough into 1-inch balls and roll each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This step gives the cookies their classic snickerdoodle exterior.
Place the dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each one to allow for spreading. Bake in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once done, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.