Sweet and Salty Teddy Bear Snickerdoodles

Sweet and Salty Teddy Bear Snickerdoodles are a whimsical twist on the classic cinnamon-sugar cookie. These soft, chewy snickerdoodles are rolled in a cinnamon-sugar coating, then topped with mini teddy bear-shaped cookies and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness. Fun to look at, fun to eat, and loaded with nostalgic flavor, these cookies are perfect for kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are the perfect blend of soft and chewy, sweet and salty, nostalgic and creative. The cinnamon-sugar coating gives that traditional snickerdoodle flavor, while the crunchy mini teddy bear cookies add texture and charm. The final touch of sea salt balances out the sweetness, creating a layered and addictive cookie experience. They’re perfect for parties, lunchbox treats, or anytime you need a little joy in cookie form.

ingredients

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

• All-purpose flour
• Cream of tartar
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Mini teddy bear cookies (like Teddy Grahams)
• Flaky sea salt (for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
6. In a small bowl, mix cinnamon and sugar for rolling.
7. Scoop dough into balls (about 1½ tablespoons each), roll in cinnamon-sugar, and place on the baking sheet.
8. Gently press 2–3 mini teddy bear cookies into the top of each dough ball.
9. Bake for 9–11 minutes, until edges are just set and centers look slightly underbaked.
10. Remove from oven, sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt, and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Dipped: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.
• Stuffed Cookies: Place a square of chocolate or caramel inside each dough ball for a gooey center.
• Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mix.
• Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Mini Version: Make smaller cookies and top with just one teddy cookie for bite-size treats.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4–5 days.
To keep them soft longer, add a slice of bread to the container.
Cookies can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

What makes these cookies soft and chewy?

The balance of butter, sugar, and eggs combined with a shorter baking time helps keep the centers chewy.

Can I use store-bought snickerdoodle dough?

Yes, you can use pre-made dough for convenience and just add the teddy cookies and sea salt before baking.

Do I have to use cream of tartar?

Cream of tartar gives snickerdoodles their signature tang and chewy texture. For best results, include it.

What are the best teddy bear cookies to use?

Mini teddy-shaped cookies like Teddy Grahams work best. Any flavor (honey, chocolate, cinnamon) complements well.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, roll dough into balls, freeze on a tray, then store in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure the teddy cookies are gluten-free as well.

How do I prevent spreading?

Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if you want thicker cookies.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe scales easily for parties or gift-giving.

Are they safe for young kids?

Yes, they’re kid-friendly and fun to make together. Just monitor for any nut allergies depending on your mix-ins.

Why add sea salt?

Flaky sea salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness, making the cookies even more addictive.

Conclusion

Sweet and Salty Teddy Bear Snickerdoodles are the kind of cookie that brings a smile to everyone’s face. With a chewy texture, nostalgic flavors, and the playful touch of teddy bear cookies on top, they’re as delightful to eat as they are to look at. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies hit all the right notes—sweet, salty, soft, and fun.

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