Rhubarb Snickerdoodles – A Sweet & Tangy Twist on a Classic Favorite

Looking for a cookie that’s soft, buttery, sweet—with a surprise burst of tart fruit? These Rhubarb Snickerdoodles are a dreamy take on a nostalgic classic. Buttery cookie dough, rolled in cinnamon-sugar, hides tiny bites of fresh rhubarb that melt into a soft, tangy treasure with every bite. It’s a cozy comfort treat, perfect for spring days, summer gatherings, or just baking your heart out at home.

Whether you’re a rhubarb fan or just craving something new and delightful, these cookies promise warmth, love, and a little magic in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why these rhubarb snickerdoodles will be your new go-to cookie:

Perfectly Soft & Chewy: A classic snickerdoodle base that’s tender and satisfying.
Bright Rhubarb Flavor: Finely diced rhubarb brings a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
Cinnamon Sugar Crunch: Each cookie is rolled in cinnamon sugar for that signature warm, spicy finish.
Easy to Make: No fancy steps—just mix, roll, and bake.
Crowd-Pleaser: Unique enough to stand out, comforting enough to please everyone.

Prep & Cooking Time

These cookies are quick and simple to make. In just over half an hour, your kitchen will smell like cinnamon dreams.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: About 35 minutes

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for a batch of warm, chewy rhubarb snickerdoodles:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup rhubarb, finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for rolling)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rolling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Cream the Butter & Sugar:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.

3. Add Eggs & Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.

5. Combine Everything:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Gently fold in the diced rhubarb.

6. Make Cinnamon Sugar:
In a small bowl, stir together the cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of sugar.

7. Shape the Dough:
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

8. Bake:
Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until edges are just golden and centers are set.

9. Cool:
Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve

These cookies are perfect for every season, every mood, and every sweet craving. Try serving them:

With Hot Tea or Coffee: Perfect for an afternoon break.
With Ice Cream: Sandwich around vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a treat.
As a Gift: Pack in a jar or box for a heartwarming homemade present.
With Fresh Fruit: Serve with a bowl of berries for a balanced dessert plate.

Tips & Variations

Use Other Fruit: Not a fan of rhubarb? Try strawberries or apples for a sweeter twist.
Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for an easy GF adaptation.
Don’t Overbake: They’ll firm up as they cool—remove from oven once edges are golden.
Make Ahead: Dough can be refrigerated for 1–2 days or frozen for future baking.

Final Thoughts

These Rhubarb Snickerdoodles are everything a cookie should be—soft, flavorful, and wrapped in sugar and spice. The tangy rhubarb takes the traditional snickerdoodle to a whole new level, bringing brightness and character to every bite. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or just for yourself, this recipe is a cozy, delicious way to bring a little joy to your day.

Try them once, and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

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Rhubarb Snickerdoodles – A Sweet & Tangy Twist on a Classic Favorite


  • Author: Shirley
  • Total Time: 35 minutes

Description

Soft, buttery, and rolled in cinnamon-sugar, these Rhubarb Snickerdoodles are a delightful twist on a classic cookie. Tart bites of fresh rhubarb melt into the dough, creating the perfect balance of sweet and tangy in every bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup rhubarb, finely diced
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for rolling)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1½ cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Fold in the finely diced rhubarb gently with a spatula.
  7. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cinnamon with 2 tablespoons sugar.
  8. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  9. Place on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
  10. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  11. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24 cookies
  • Calories: 180 kcal per serving

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