Favorite Soft Snickerdoodle Cookies with Figs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies combine the nostalgic taste of snickerdoodles with a gourmet flair. The figs add a chewy sweetness, while the orange zest brightens up the flavor. Cardamom gives them a unique, aromatic spice that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-sugar vibe of traditional snickerdoodles. They’re soft, slightly chewy, and packed with flavor perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply an afternoon treat.

Ingredients

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

• 13.5 ounces all-purpose flour (3 cups)
• 1 cup + 3 tablespoons Baker’s sugar, divided (or granulated sugar)
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon non-fat dry milk powder (optional)
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or ½ teaspoon table salt)
• 2 teaspoons ground cardamom, divided
• Zest of 2 oranges
• ⅔ cup finely chopped dried figs
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 3 large eggs, well beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon cardamom. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, 1 cup sugar, and brown sugar until combined.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth. Stir in the orange zest and chopped figs.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 3 tablespoons sugar with the remaining 1 teaspoon cardamom.
7. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie, roll into balls, and coat in the sugar-cardamom mixture.
8. Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
9. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers look slightly soft.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Preparation takes 20 minutes, baking requires 10–12 minutes per batch, and cooling adds 10 minutes. Total time is approximately 45 minutes.

Variations

• Substitute cinnamon for cardamom to make a more traditional snickerdoodle flavor.
• Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch.
• Swap figs for dried cranberries, apricots, or dates for a different fruity twist.
• Drizzle with a light orange glaze for added sweetness and decoration.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To enjoy again, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a soft texture.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking. Let it soften slightly before rolling into balls.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Not necessarily, but chilling for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavor.

Can I substitute fresh figs for dried figs?

No, fresh figs have too much moisture and will change the texture of the cookies.

What does the dry milk powder do?

It enhances softness and helps the cookies stay moist, but you can omit it if you don’t have any.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Why use cardamom instead of cinnamon?

Cardamom gives a unique floral, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with figs and orange zest.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread or an apple wedge to retain moisture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, roll dough balls, coat in sugar, and freeze on a baking sheet. Transfer to a bag once frozen, then bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to bake time.

Do these cookies spread a lot?

They spread moderately. If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough before baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily for larger gatherings or holiday baking.

Conclusion

These soft snickerdoodle cookies with figs are a flavorful twist on the classic cookie, blending warm spices, chewy figs, and citrusy brightness. They’re easy to make, bake up soft and delicious, and bring a touch of elegance to a well-loved treat. Perfect for cookie exchanges, festive gatherings, or simply enjoying at home, they’re sure to become a new favorite.

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