A lighter take on a classic favorite featuring reduced sugar, warm cinnamon, and gluten-free ingredients.

Snickerdoodles have long been one of my favorite cookies. Their soft texture and cinnamon-sugar coating make them feel comforting and familiar. This version preserves the flavor and character of a traditional snickerdoodle while incorporating a few thoughtful ingredient changes that reduce sugar and fat without sacrificing enjoyment.

For me, these cookies are a reminder that healthy choices do not have to mean giving up the foods we love. Sometimes balance is found not in elimination, but in making intentional adjustments that support our overall well-being.

Ingredients

• ½ cup butter, softened, plus 1 tablespoon melted butter

• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce

• ¾ cup coconut sugar

• 2 eggs

• 2¾ cups gluten-free 1:1 flour blend (with xanthan gum)

• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• Cinnamon Coating

• 1 tablespoon coconut sugar

• 1 tablespoon monk fruit sweetener

• 2 tablespoons cinnamon

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, melted butter, applesauce, and coconut sugar until combined.

2. Add the eggs and mix well.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cream of tartar, and baking soda.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.

5. Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 1–2 hours.

6. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

7. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon coating ingredients.

8. Roll the dough into balls and coat each one in the cinnamon mixture.

9. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and gently flatten the dough balls before baking.

10. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

11. Allow the cookies to cool for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Why I Like This Recipe

• Delivers the familiar flavor and texture of a traditional snickerdoodle.

• Uses less sugar than many classic recipes.

• Cinnamon naturally enhances sweetness, allowing for sugar reduction.

• Gluten-free and easy to share with guests who avoid gluten.

• Supports a balanced approach to mindful eating.

A Moore Abundant Life Tip

One of the lessons I have learned is that enjoying a favorite food and caring for our health do not have to be opposing goals. Small, thoughtful changes can often make a meaningful difference while still preserving the foods and traditions we enjoy.

These cookies are a reminder that wellness is not about perfection. It is about creating a way of eating that is both nourishing and sustainable for the long term.

Approximate Nutrition Per Cookie

Based on approximately 24 cookies per batch.

Calories: ~110

Fat: 4.5g

Carbohydrates: 16g

Sugar: 6–7g

Protein: 2g