Snickerdoodle Cupcakes With Swirl Frosting Recipe

This delightful recipe for snickerdoodle cupcakes packs all the aromatic and sweet elements of the classic cookie into a fluffy and moist cupcake, topped off with a swirl of cinnamon-infused frosting. It's a unique twist on the beloved snickerdoodle that's sure to be a hit at any gathering! With familiar ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.

Photos of Snickerdoodle Cupcakes With Swirl Frosting Recipe

All the ingredients needed for this recipe are typical baking essentials and should be readily available at your local supermarket. However, take extra note on the Snickerdoodle cookies, used for garnish on the cupcakes. If you prefer not to buy them, you can also make your own with a simple Snickerdoodle cookie recipe.

Ingredients for Snickerdoodle Cupcakes and Cinnamon Swirl Frosting

All-purpose flour: This is the base of the cupcake, providing structure and texture.

Baking powder and baking soda: These are leavening agents that help the cupcakes rise.

Salt: This enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the cupcakes.

Granulated sugar: This sweetens the cupcakes and aids in browning.

Egg: This binds the ingredients together.

Yogurt or sour cream: This adds tang and ensures a moist texture.

Milk: This liquid is necessary to the consistency of the batter.

Vanilla extract: This enhances the flavor of the cupcakes.

Ground cinnamon: This gives the cupcakes and frosting the signature snickerdoodle flavor.

Confectioners’ sugar: This is used to make the frosting.

Heavy cream: This is used to achieve the right consistency in the frosting.

Snickerdoodle cookies: These are used for garnish on the cupcakes.

One reader, Dee Liang says:

These snickerdoodle cupcakes are a game-changer! The cinnamon-infused batter is a delight, and the swirl frosting is a dream. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the texture is divine. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful treat that will impress everyone!

Dee Liang

Techniques Required for Snickerdoodle Cupcakes With Swirl Frosting

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.

Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture: In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon together. Set aside.

Bake the cupcakes: Bake the cupcakes for 19 to 21 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before frosting.

Make the cinnamon frosting: Beat the butter on high speed until smooth and creamy. Add confectioners’ sugar, cream, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds then switch to high speed and beat for 3 full minutes. Add more confectioners’ sugar if frosting is too thin or more cream if the frosting is too thick.

Swirl the frosting: Spoon half of the cinnamon frosting into the piping bag and half vanilla frosting into the piping bag. Pipe onto cupcakes. If you do not have a piping bag and tip, simply frost the cupcakes with both the vanilla and cinnamon frostings.

Store the cupcakes: Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days and in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

How To Make Snickerdoodle Cupcakes With Swirl Frosting

Enjoy a sweet treat with these snickerdoodle cupcakes filled with vanilla flavor and topped with a sweet cinnamon frosting. Will be ready in 45 minutes.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

1⅔cupsall-purpose flour,(210 grams) spoon & leveled
½tspbaking powder
¼tspBaking Soda
½tspsalt
½cupunsalted butter,(1 stick or 115 grams)
1½cupsgranulated sugar,(300g) divided
1large egg,at room temperature
¼cupyogurt or sour cream,(60 grams) at room temperature
¾cupmilk,(180 ml) at room temperature
1tbsppure vanilla extract
2tspground cinnamon

For the Cinnamon-Swirl Frosting:

1cupunsalted butter,(2 sticks or 230 grams) softened to room temperature
4cupsconfectioners’ sugar,(360 to 480 grams)
¼cupheavy cream,(60 ml) or half-and-half
2tsppure vanilla extract
salt,to taste
1tbspground cinnamon
12snickerdoodle cookies,mini size

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together. Set aside.
In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt butter in the microwave. Whisk in 1 cup of sugar. Let it rest for a couple of minutes to slightly cool down.
Stir in egg, yogurt, milk, and vanilla extract until combined. Slowly mix in dry ingredients until no lumps remain.
In a small bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon together. Set aside. Spoon 2 Tablespoons of cupcake batter into each cupcake liner.
Top with 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Top with 1 Tablespoon of cupcake batter until the cupcake liners are about ¾ full. Top each cupcake with 1 more teaspoon of the cinnamon-sugar.
Bake the cupcakes for 19 to 21 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before frosting.

Cinnamon Frosting:

With a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat butter on high speed until smooth and creamy for about 1 minute.
Add confectioners’ sugar, cream, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds then switch to high speed and beat for 3 full minutes.
Add more confectioners’ sugar if frosting is too thin or more cream if the frosting is too thick.
Remove half of the frosting from the mixing bowl and transfer to a smaller mixing bowl. Beat 1 Tablespoon of cinnamon into half of the frosting.

To swirl the frosting:

Spoon half of the cinnamon frosting into the piping bag and half vanilla frosting into the piping bag.
Pipe onto cupcakes. If you do not have a piping bag and tip, simply frost the cupcakes with both the vanilla and cinnamon frostings.
Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days and in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 646.60kcal
Fat: 31.42g
Saturated Fat: 18.97g
Trans Fat: 0.93g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.35g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.88g
Carbohydrates: 89.66g
Fiber: 1.04g
Sugar: 65.45g
Protein: 4.20g
Cholesterol: 98.52mg
Sodium: 369.88mg
Calcium: 69.53mg
Potassium: 105.77mg
Iron: 1.45mg
Vitamin A: 258.98µg
Vitamin C: 0.15mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Swirl Frosting

When preparing the cinnamon-swirl frosting, it's important to beat the butter until it's smooth and creamy before adding the other ingredients. This ensures that the frosting will have a uniform texture. Also, when adding the confectioners’ sugar, cream, and vanilla extract, start the mixer on low speed to prevent the sugar from flying out of the bowl. Once the sugar is incorporated, you can increase the speed to high for a fluffier frosting. For the perfect swirl effect, try to evenly distribute the cinnamon and vanilla frosting in the piping bag. If you don't have a piping bag, you can create a makeshift one by snipping off a corner of a zip-top plastic bag.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe

Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all ingredients in advance to streamline the baking process.

Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer for efficient and thorough mixing of the cupcake batter and frosting.

Bake in batches: If your muffin pan is not large enough to bake all cupcakes at once, bake in batches to save time.

Chill the frosting: Place the frosting in the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm it up before piping for better control and stability.

Multi-task: While the cupcakes are baking, prepare the frosting to maximize efficiency.

Sift dry ingredients: Sifting the dry ingredients beforehand ensures a smooth and lump-free cupcake batter.

Use a cookie scoop: Utilize a cookie scoop to portion the cupcake batter evenly, saving time and ensuring uniform cupcakes.

Pre-made cookies: Save time by using pre-made snickerdoodle cookies for decoration instead of making them from scratch.

Pipe with ease: Use a piping bag with a large round tip for quick and effortless frosting application.

Refrigerate the batter: If not baking all cupcakes at once, refrigerate the remaining batter while the first batch bakes to prevent it from over-fermenting.

Substitute Ingredients For Snickerdoodle Cupcakes With Swirl Frosting Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: This substitute is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies, providing a gluten-free option for the recipe.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, imparting a subtle coconut flavor to the cupcakes.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to granulated sugar, adding a hint of caramel flavor to the cupcakes.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, mixed and allowed to thicken): This vegan-friendly substitute can be used to replace eggs in the recipe.
yogurt or sour cream - Substitute with dairy-free yogurt or sour cream: This substitute is suitable for those with dairy allergies or following a vegan diet.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a nutty flavor to the cupcakes.
unsalted butter (for frosting) - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used as a dairy-free alternative for the frosting, providing a creamy texture and flavor.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol or powdered monk fruit sweetener: These sugar-free alternatives can be used for a lower-carb or keto-friendly version of the frosting.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a rich and creamy texture to the frosting.
snickerdoodle cookies - Substitute with cinnamon graham crackers: Cinnamon graham crackers can be used as a substitute for snickerdoodle cookies, adding a similar cinnamon flavor and crunchy texture to the cupcakes.

Presenting Snickerdoodle Cupcakes With Swirl Frosting

Elevate with a snickerdoodle cookie garnish: Place a whole or crumbled snickerdoodle cookie on top of each cupcake for a visually appealing and flavorful garnish.
Create a beautiful swirl pattern: Use a piping bag to create a stunning swirl pattern with the vanilla and cinnamon frostings, adding an elegant touch to the cupcakes.
Present on a sophisticated platter: Arrange the cupcakes on a silver platter or a sleek, modern serving dish to enhance the visual appeal and elevate the overall presentation.
Garnish with a dusting of cinnamon: Lightly dust the cupcakes with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon just before serving to add a pop of color and a hint of aromatic flavor.
Add a touch of edible gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, delicately place a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of each cupcake to create a sense of opulence and sophistication.
Serve with a side of whipped cream: Accompany the cupcakes with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side of the plate for a luxurious and indulgent finishing touch.

Essential Tools for Making Snickerdoodle Cupcakes

Medium bowl: A medium-sized bowl is used for mixing dry ingredients, preparing batters, and marinating foods.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen tool used for blending, beating, and whipping ingredients together.
Microwave-safe bowl: This type of bowl is designed to be used in a microwave for melting, heating, or cooking ingredients.
Muffin pan: A muffin pan is a baking pan with cup-shaped cavities used to bake muffins, cupcakes, and other small baked goods.
Cupcake liners: Cupcake liners are paper or foil cups that are placed in the muffin pan to hold the cupcake batter while baking.
Handheld or stand mixer: A handheld or stand mixer is used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients to create a smooth and creamy texture.
Piping bag and tip: A piping bag and tip are used for decorating and frosting cupcakes, cakes, and other baked goods with precision and decorative designs.

Storing and Freezing Snickerdoodle Cupcakes

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To keep the cupcakes fresh for a longer period, store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
If you want to freeze the cupcakes, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
Freeze the cupcakes for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to serve, remove the cupcakes from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour before unwrapping and serving.
If you plan to freeze the cupcakes with the frosting, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until the frosting is firm, then wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
To thaw frozen cupcakes with frosting, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before serving.
Note: Freezing cupcakes with frosting may slightly affect the texture and appearance of the frosting, but they will still taste delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Cupcakes

To reheat leftover snickerdoodle cupcakes in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through. The foil will help prevent the frosting from melting and the cupcakes from drying out.
If you prefer to use a microwave, place the cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cupcake, as this can cause the frosting to melt and the cake to become rubbery.
For a quicker and more convenient option, you can reheat the cupcakes in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcakes in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until they are warmed to your liking. This method will help maintain the texture of the cupcakes while reheating them quickly.
If you have a few cupcakes to reheat and want to maintain their freshness, consider using a steamer basket. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the cupcakes in the steamer basket, ensuring they are not touching the water. Cover the pot and steam the cupcakes for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through. This gentle reheating method will help keep the cupcakes moist and the frosting intact.
For a crispy top and a soft interior, you can also reheat the cupcakes on a griddle or in a skillet. Heat the griddle or skillet over medium-low heat and place the cupcakes top-side down on the surface. Cover the griddle or skillet with a lid and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until the bottoms of the cupcakes are crispy and the interiors are warm. This method works best for unfrosted cupcakes or those with a more stable frosting.

Interesting Trivia About Snickerdoodle Cupcakes

Snickerdoodle cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic snickerdoodle cookie. They combine the beloved flavors of cinnamon and sugar in a moist and fluffy cupcake form, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

Is Making Snickerdoodle Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?

The snickerdoodle cupcakes with swirl frosting recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and cinnamon, are commonly found in most kitchens. The cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its simplicity, delightful flavor, and the joy it brings to the table.

Are Snickerdoodle Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?

The snickerdoodle cupcake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, with 1½ cups in the cupcake batter and an additional 4 cups of confectioners' sugar in the frosting. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
The recipe also uses a considerable amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of cardiovascular problems.
The all-purpose flour used in the recipe is refined, meaning it has been stripped of its natural nutrients and fiber during processing.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar in both the cupcake batter and the frosting. You can experiment with using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates as a partial replacement for the granulated sugar.
Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber content and add some healthy fats.
Swap out some of the butter for healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or coconut oil. These substitutions can help reduce the amount of saturated fat in the recipe while maintaining moisture and richness.
Incorporate more nutritious ingredients into the cupcake batter, such as grated zucchini, carrots, or apple sauce. These additions can provide extra vitamins, minerals, and fiber without compromising the taste.
Reduce the amount of frosting used on each cupcake or opt for a lighter frosting made with Greek yogurt or whipped cream cheese instead of butter.

Editor's Opinion on These Delightful Cupcakes

The snickerdoodle cupcakes with swirl frosting recipe is a delightful twist on the classic snickerdoodle cookie. The incorporation of cinnamon into both the cupcake batter and the frosting adds a warm and comforting flavor. The cinnamon-sugar swirl within the cupcake creates a beautiful marbled effect, and the dual-tone frosting adds visual appeal. The use of yogurt or sour cream in the cupcake batter ensures a moist and tender crumb. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Enhance Your Snickerdoodle Cupcakes With Swirl Frosting Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Try serving with a side of roasted asparagus drizzled with garlic parmesan sauce for a savory and flavorful addition to the snickerdoodle cupcakes.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: For a unique and tangy side dish, consider pairing the cupcakes with balsamic glazed brussels sprouts, adding a touch of sweetness and acidity to the meal.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Chicken Wings: For a savory and spicy option, serve the cupcakes alongside honey sriracha glazed chicken wings, offering a delicious contrast to the sweet and cinnamon flavors of the dessert.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Snickerdoodle Cupcakes

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and cream creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The marinade of lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs infuses the chicken with bright and zesty flavors, while grilling adds a smoky char that is irresistible.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and healthy dessert that is perfect for a light and satisfying treat. The sweet and tropical flavors of mango and coconut are combined with the creamy texture of chia seeds to create a dessert that is both indulgent and nutritious.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Go Well With This Recipe

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: A creamy and savory dip made with spinach, artichokes, and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for spreading on toasted baguette slices or dipping with crunchy tortilla chips.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delicious mushrooms stuffed with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs, then baked until golden and crispy. A perfect bite-sized appetizer for any gathering.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich, cheesy sauce. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Whip up a hearty and flavorful beef stroganoff with tender strips of beef, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. Pair it with buttered egg noodles and steamed green beans for a classic and comforting dinner option.

Why trust this Snickerdoodle Cupcakes With Swirl Frosting Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful experience with snickerdoodle cupcakes. The combination of cinnamon and vanilla creates a symphony of flavors, while the addition of snickerdoodle cookies adds a delightful crunch. The meticulous instructions ensure a perfect outcome, and the cinnamon-swirl frosting adds a beautiful touch. Trust in the expertise of this recipe to deliver a memorable cupcake experience.

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FAQ:

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter for the cupcakes?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.

Can I substitute the heavy cream in the frosting with something else?

Yes, you can use whole milk or half-and-half as a substitute for heavy cream in the frosting. Just adjust the amount to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I make the cupcakes in advance and frost them later?

Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost them when you're ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the frosting.

Can I omit the cinnamon in the frosting if I'm not a fan of cinnamon?

Of course! If you prefer a traditional vanilla frosting, you can omit the cinnamon and stick with a classic vanilla frosting for these cupcakes.

Can I use a different type of cookie for decoration instead of snickerdoodle cookies?

Certainly! You can use any cookie of your choice for decoration, such as sugar cookies or shortbread cookies, to add a personal touch to the cupcakes.