Snickerdoodle Cobbler
Hey there, I’m bursting with excitement to share my new favorite treat. It’s Snickerdoodle Cobbler, and oh my gosh, it’s so good. The buttery crust and the cinnamon sugar topping make the house smell like a dream.
I tried making it last weekend, and my kitchen turned into a cozy wonderland. The simple ingredients—like sugar, butter, and sweet cinnamon—blended into pure magic. I loved how the edges got crispy, but the inside stayed soft and gooey.
Now, I can’t stop thinking about that comforting first bite. It feels like a warm hug in dessert form, with that swirl of cinnamon wrapping around each spoonful. I know you’ll fall in love with that melt-in-your-mouth goodness, too.
So, let’s whip this up together and share the joy. Gather your ingredients, toss them into a pan, and watch the cinnamon sugar dance. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Familiar Yet Unique: A nostalgic twist on snickerdoodle cookies in a comforting, warm cobbler.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Rich and Buttery: The cobbler base soaks up the cinnamon-sugar syrup, creating a decadent texture.
- Quick to Prepare: No need for fancy techniques—just mix, layer, and bake.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

What You Need to Know Before You Start
Prep Time & Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
Servings:
This recipe makes 6-8 servings—perfect for a family dessert or a small gathering.
Difficulty Level:
Easy—great for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Required Kitchen Tools
To make this Snickerdoodle Cobbler, you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls – For combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk & Spoon – To mix everything evenly.
- 8×8 or 9×9 Baking Dish – For even baking.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – To ensure accuracy.
- Small Saucepan – For preparing the hot water mixture.
Ingredients for Snickerdoodle Cobbler
Here’s what you’ll need (exact measurements in the recipe card below):
For the Cobbler Batter:
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor.
- Whole Milk – Creates a tender, moist base.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the classic snickerdoodle flavor.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter.
- All-Purpose Flour – The base of the cobbler.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cobbler rise.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness.
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
- Ground Cinnamon – Essential for that snickerdoodle flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Creates a caramelized, slightly chewy topping.
- Hot Water – Helps dissolve the sugars for a smooth topping.

How to Make Snickerdoodle Cobbler: Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have everything ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making Snickerdoodle Cobbler. This dessert comes together quickly with a few simple steps—mixing, layering, and baking. The magic happens in the oven as the cobbler batter rises and mingles with the cinnamon-sugar topping, forming a soft, cake-like base with a rich caramelized crust.
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This ensures that your cobbler doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, melt ½ cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter. Once melted, pour the butter directly into the greased baking dish. Do not stir it into the batter later—this step helps create the signature cobbler texture.
Tip: If you want extra depth of flavor, you can brown the butter before adding it to the dish. To do this, heat the butter in a small pan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
Step 3: Make the Cobbler Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined. The batter should be smooth and slightly runny.
Important: Do not overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cobbler instead of a light, fluffy texture.
Carefully pour the batter over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir—the butter should stay at the bottom to create a rich, buttery crust.
Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix together:
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter. It may seem like a lot, but as it bakes, the sugar will caramelize and create a crisp, snickerdoodle-like crust.
Step 5: Add the Hot Water
This step might seem unusual, but it’s the secret to getting that gooey, caramel-like bottom layer.
- Heat 1 ½ cups of water until very hot (not boiling).
- Slowly and gently pour the hot water over the entire surface of the batter and cinnamon-sugar topping.
Don’t stir! The hot water will dissolve some of the sugar, creating a self-saucing effect as the cobbler bakes.
Step 6: Bake the Cobbler
Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set while the bottom remains gooey.
How to Know It’s Done: The edges should be firm and slightly crisp, but the center should still have a soft, molten layer underneath. You can check by inserting a toothpick into the cake-like portion (not the gooey layer underneath). If it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once baked, remove the cobbler from the oven and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the gooey layers to set slightly while staying warm and soft.

How to Serve Snickerdoodle Cobbler
This cobbler is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to take it to the next level:
Classic Serving Suggestions:
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm cobbler, creating an irresistible combination of hot and cold.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich cobbler.
- With Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the top for even more indulgence.
- With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar enhances the presentation.
Fun Variations:
- Apple Snickerdoodle Cobbler: Add thinly sliced apples between the batter and cinnamon-sugar topping for a fruity twist.
- Pumpkin Spice Version: Substitute cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired treat.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking for extra texture.
Storing Snickerdoodle Cobbler
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s that good!), here’s how to store them properly:
Refrigerating Leftovers:
- Store any leftover cobbler in an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap.
- Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 20-30 seconds until warm.
- Oven: To keep the crisp topping intact, reheat at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes.
Freezing for Later:
- You can freeze baked cobbler for up to 2 months.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in a freezer-safe container.
- To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 15 minutes.

Key Tips for Success
1. Use Real Butter for the Best Flavor
- Avoid margarine or butter substitutes—real unsalted butter gives the best rich, caramel-like taste.
- If using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the batter by half.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
- When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined.
- Overmixing can result in a tough cobbler instead of a light and fluffy texture.
3. Do Not Stir After Pouring the Butter and Water
- Once you pour the batter over the melted butter, do not stir—this is what creates the layered effect.
- The same applies when adding hot water—just pour it over and let the oven do the work.
4. Adjust the Cinnamon-Sugar Ratio to Your Taste
- If you love extra cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the topping by ½ teaspoon.
- If you prefer a lighter cinnamon touch, reduce it slightly.
5. Want a Crispier Topping?
- If you love a more caramelized, crispier crust, sprinkle an extra tablespoon of granulated sugar over the top before baking.
6. Check for Doneness Correctly
- The top layer should be golden brown and crisp, while the bottom remains slightly gooey.
- Insert a toothpick into the cake-like portion—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!

Variations and Ingredient Swaps
Love experimenting in the kitchen? Here are some fun ways to customize your Snickerdoodle Cobbler:
Flavor Enhancements
- Add Nutmeg: A pinch of ground nutmeg gives the cobbler an even cozier depth of flavor.
- Try Browned Butter: Instead of melting butter, brown it slightly to bring out a nutty, caramel-like taste.
Dietary Modifications
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and vegan butter as substitutes.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
Extra Toppings for More Texture
Add oats to the cinnamon-sugar topping for a streusel-like crunch.
Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds over the batter before baking.
Snickerdoodle Cobbler Nutrition Information
Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings). Keep in mind that actual values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Nutrient | Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320-350 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 50g |
Protein | 3g |
Fat | 14g |
Saturated Fat | 8g |
Cholesterol | 35mg |
Sodium | 180mg |
Sugar | 35g |
Fiber | 1g |
Snickerdoodle Cobbler
6-8
servings15
minutes40
minutes320-350
kcalIngredients
- For the Cobbler Batter:
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
¾ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 ½ cups hot water
Directions
- Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. - Melt the Butter
Melt ½ cup of butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Pour the melted butter into the greased baking dish—do not mix. - Make the Cobbler Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter evenly over the melted butter in the baking dish. Do not stir. - Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the batter. - Pour the Hot Water
Heat 1 ½ cups of water until very hot but not boiling.
Slowly pour the hot water over the entire surface of the batter—do not stir. - Bake the Cobbler
Place the dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
Remove from the oven and let sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Snickerdoodle Cobbler ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it ahead and reheat it in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes before serving.
Why do I pour hot water over the batter?
This step creates a rich, gooey layer underneath while baking, forming a caramel-like texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch baking dish and double all the ingredients.
Can I make this cobbler without dairy?
Yes! Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk.
Conclusion
Snickerdoodle Cobbler is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings the warmth of cinnamon and sugar to a rich, gooey cobbler. Whether you serve it on a cozy night in or for a special gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy it fresh from the oven with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate comforting treat.