Name: Snickerdoodle Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; 1¼ cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1½ cup sugar; 2¼ cups all-purpose flour; 3 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp cinnamon; 2 cups powdered sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting); 2 tbsp heavy cream; 2 tsp cinnamon (for frosting); 2 tbsp brown sugar

Why You’ll Love Snickerdoodle Cupcakes Recipe

If you love snickerdoodle cookies, you’ll adore these cupcakes. They deliver that same nostalgic cinnamon-sugar goodness in cupcake form, complete with a luscious frosting that melts in your mouth. The recipe is simple to make, and the cupcakes turn out bakery-quality every time. Whether you serve them at a party or as a family treat, these snickerdoodle cupcakes are sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cupcakes:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1¼ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cup sugar
2¼ cups all-purpose flour
3 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp cinnamon

Frosting:
2 cups powdered sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp heavy cream
2 tsp cinnamon
2 tbsp brown sugar

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with milk and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.
Fill cupcake liners halfway with the batter and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
For the frosting, beat butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in heavy cream, cinnamon, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
Frost the cooled cupcakes and dust lightly with cinnamon sugar if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 24 cupcakes
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Calories: Approximately 222 per cupcake

Variations

Snickerdoodle Twist: Roll the tops of your cupcakes in cinnamon sugar before baking for a crunchy finish.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Substitute half the butter in the frosting with cream cheese for a tangy, rich flavor.
Mocha Snickerdoodles: Add 1 tsp espresso powder to the cupcake batter for a subtle coffee undertone.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel over the frosted cupcakes for an indulgent touch.
Mini Cupcakes: Make bite-sized versions by baking in mini cupcake tins for 10–12 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store the frosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. If refrigerated, let them sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving.
To freeze, place unfrosted cupcakes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost before serving.

FAQs

What makes these cupcakes taste like snickerdoodles?

The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and buttery flavor replicates the classic taste of snickerdoodle cookies.

Can I use store-bought frosting instead?

Yes, but homemade frosting enhances the cinnamon flavor and complements the cupcakes better.

How do I know when the cupcakes are done baking?

Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re done.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk alternatives like almond or oat milk.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind it may affect the texture and sweetness.

What’s the best way to frost these cupcakes?

Use a piping bag with a large star tip for a bakery-style swirl, or spread it with a knife for a rustic look.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them unfrosted. Frost before serving.

Why did my cupcakes sink in the middle?

Overmixing the batter or opening the oven door too early can cause sinking. Be gentle with the batter and keep the oven closed during baking.

Can I add a filling to these cupcakes?

Absolutely—try a cinnamon cream or vanilla pudding filling for extra flavor.

How can I make them extra fluffy?

Use room-temperature ingredients and be careful not to overmix the batter. This keeps the cupcakes light and airy.

Conclusion

Snickerdoodle Cupcakes combine everything you love about classic cookies and soft, fluffy cupcakes. With their warm cinnamon aroma and creamy frosting, they’re the perfect dessert for holidays or cozy gatherings. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, a glass of milk, or as a sweet treat anytime you crave comfort and nostalgia.