Snickerdoodle cookies are a classic dessert loved by many, and with the magic of the air fryer, you can enjoy these treats in less time without sacrificing taste. I’m excited to share this easy and delicious air fryer snickerdoodle cookie recipe, which results in soft, chewy cookies with a delightful cinnamon-sugar coating. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe will have you making these cookies in no time!
The best part about this air fryer version is how quickly it comes together. No need to wait for the oven to preheat or use excessive amounts of energy. You’ll love how crispy the cinnamon-sugar exterior gets while keeping the center soft and gooey. If you’re craving a nostalgic treat or want something quick to snack on, these air fryer snickerdoodle cookies are just what you need.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the cookie dough, providing structure and texture. It’s the essential ingredient for any cookie recipe, including snickerdoodles.
Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise slightly, making them light and fluffy.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the cookies. It’s a small ingredient, but it makes a huge difference in taste.
Unsalted butter: This adds richness and flavor to the dough. Be sure to use softened butter to make mixing easier and achieve a creamy consistency in the dough.
Granulated sugar: For sweetness and a crisp exterior. This is the main sugar used in the dough, ensuring that the cookies are sweet without being overwhelming.
Brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a touch of molasses flavor, making the cookies extra flavorful and helping them maintain a chewy texture.
Egg: The egg binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the dough. It’s essential for creating that soft and chewy texture.
Vanilla extract: This adds depth to the flavor and complements the cinnamon and sugar.
Cinnamon: A key flavor in snickerdoodle cookies! The cinnamon sugar coating gives the cookies their signature sweet and spicy flavor that makes them so irresistible.
Granulated sugar for coating: You’ll mix this with cinnamon to roll the cookie dough balls before air frying. This gives the cookies that signature cinnamon-sugar crust.
Ingredients list
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
How to Make Air Fryer Snickerdoodle Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the cookie dough
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Make the cinnamon-sugar coating
In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. This will be the cinnamon-sugar coating that will give the cookies their signature flavor.
Step 3: Form cookie dough balls
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Then, roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until completely coated. This adds the perfect sweet and spicy coating to each cookie.
Step 4: Preheat the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookie dough balls into the air fryer basket, ensuring that they are not touching to allow space for them to spread out while baking.
Step 5: Air fry the cookies
Air fry the snickerdoodle cookies for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and slightly puffed up. Make sure to check halfway through and adjust the time if necessary, as air fryer models can vary.
Step 6: Cool the cookies
Allow the cookies to cool in the air fryer basket for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them firm up without losing their soft, chewy center.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure the butter and egg are at room temperature for the best texture when creaming the butter and mixing the dough.
- Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it into balls. This will help the cookies maintain their shape while air frying.
- Watch the cooking time: Depending on your air fryer, the cooking time may vary slightly. Keep an eye on the cookies as they cook to ensure they don’t burn.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air fryer baskets tend to cook more evenly when not overcrowded. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie dough ball.
- Add a little extra cinnamon: If you’re a fan of cinnamon, feel free to increase the amount in the dough or coating for an even spicier, more flavorful treat.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can! Simply bake the snickerdoodle cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough in dough balls or as a full batch. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply air fry the frozen dough balls for a few extra minutes.
How do I store the cookies?
Store the air fryer snickerdoodle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer to maintain their freshness.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Just make sure the rest of your ingredients are also gluten-free.