Snickerdoodles: 1 amazing chewy cookie recipe

Snickerdoodles have been a cherished part of my baking memories since childhood. I can still picture my grandmother rolling these soft, chewy cookies in their signature cinnamon sugar coating, the sweet, spicy aroma filling her kitchen. There’s something magical about that crackly, slightly tangy exterior that gives way to a tender center. If you’re looking for an easy snickerdoodle cookie recipe that’s guaranteed to impress, you’ve found it! These aren’t just any cookies; they are a hug in edible form. Get ready to create some delicious homemade snickerdoodles that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get baking!

What Are Snickerdoodles?

So, what exactly are snickerdoodles? These delightful cookies are a classic American treat, instantly recognizable by their sweet, tangy flavor and distinctive crackled surface. They are essentially simple sugar cookies rolled in a generous coating of cinnamon sugar before baking, which gives them that signature sweet-spicy aroma and taste. The magic behind their unique texture and slight tang comes from a key ingredient: cream of tartar. This makes them stand out from your average sugar cookie and gives them that delightful chewiness. If you’re curious about how to make snickerdoodles, you’re in for a simple and rewarding baking experience!

Why You’ll Love This Snickerdoodle Cookie Recipe

You’re going to adore making and eating these classic cookies. Here’s why this recipe is a winner:

• Effortless to Make: This simple snickerdoodle recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect Texture: Achieve that ideal balance of chewy center and slightly crisp edges.
• Signature Tangy Flavor: The cream of tartar gives these cookies a unique, delightful tang you won’t find elsewhere.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves a good homemade snickerdoodle, making them ideal for parties or bake sales.
• Quick Baking Time: Ready in under 15 minutes, they’re perfect for when a cookie craving strikes.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable for different dietary needs or flavor additions.
• Amazing Aroma: Your kitchen will smell incredible while these bake!
• Pure Comfort: These cinnamon sugar cookies are like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients for Your Homemade Snickerdoodles

Gather these simple ingredients for your classic snickerdoodle cookie recipe. Most are pantry staples, making these easy snickerdoodle cookies a breeze to whip up anytime you need a sweet treat. The distinct flavor of these homemade snickerdoodles comes from a few key players:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – Make sure it’s softened, not melted, for the best texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – This forms the base of the cookie and sweetens them.
• 2 large eggs – Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a lovely depth of flavor to your snickerdoodle cookie ingredients.
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – The structure for our cookies.
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar – This is the secret ingredient that gives snickerdoodles their signature tangy flavor and chewy texture. It’s essential for classic snickerdoodle cookies!
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Works with the cream of tartar to help the cookies spread and achieve their crackly tops.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – Combined with cinnamon for that essential coating.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – The aromatic spice that defines these cinnamon sugar cookies.

How to Make Easy Snickerdoodle Cookies

Get ready to bake some of the best homemade snickerdoodles you’ve ever tasted! This simple snickerdoodle recipe is straightforward and yields wonderfully chewy and soft cookies every time. Follow these steps for perfect results.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps with even baking for your cinnamon sugar cookies.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. You’ll see it become pale yellow and airy – that’s the base for your easy snickerdoodle cookies forming!
3. Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. This dry ingredient mixture is crucial for that distinct snickerdoodle flavor and texture.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. It’s really important not to overmix the snickerdoodle cookie dough at this stage; stop as soon as you don’t see any dry flour streaks.
6. Step 6: Prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir well until thoroughly mixed.
7. Step 7: Roll rounded tablespoons of the cookie dough into balls. Then, generously roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until it’s fully coated. This step is what gives your classic snickerdoodle cookies their signature look and taste.
8. Step 8: Place the coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. This gives them enough space to spread as they bake.
9. Step 9: Bake for 9-11 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to be lightly golden and the centers to still look slightly soft. These are your chewy snickerdoodles!
10. Step 10: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious homemade snickerdoodles!

Preparing the Dough

Start by creaming the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, creating a perfect base. Next, beat in your eggs one by one, followed by the vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt before gradually adding them to the wet ingredients. Remember, don’t overmix the snickerdoodle cookie dough!

The Signature Cinnamon Sugar Coating

For that classic snickerdoodle look and taste, prepare the coating by mixing 2 tablespoons of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Roll your dough balls generously in this mixture until they are completely coated. This step is absolutely essential for achieving the distinctive sweet and spicy flavor and the beautiful crackled appearance that makes these cinnamon sugar cookies so special.

Baking the Perfect Chewy Snickerdoodles

Bake your snickerdoodles at 375°F (190°C) for 9-11 minutes. You’re aiming for cookies with lightly golden edges and centers that still appear slightly soft. This is the key to achieving those wonderfully chewy snickerdoodles. Letting them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack helps them set perfectly.

Pro Tips for the Best Snickerdoodle Recipe

Want to elevate your baking game? These expert tips will help you achieve the most delicious, perfectly textured classic snickerdoodle cookies every single time. Mastering these little tricks ensures your homemade snickerdoodles are unforgettable.

• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten too much, leading to tougher cookies instead of soft snickerdoodles.
• Chill the Dough: For even better texture and to prevent excessive spreading, chilling the snickerdoodle cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling can work wonders.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps them emulsify properly, creating a smoother dough and a more consistent cookie texture.
• Watch the Bake Time: Oven times can vary! Keep an eye on them, and pull them out when the edges are set but the centers still look a bit soft for that signature chewy snickerdoodle.

What’s the secret to perfect chewy snickerdoodles?

The secret lies in the balance of ingredients and technique. Using cream of tartar is non-negotiable for that signature tang and chewy texture. Also, slightly underbaking them ensures the centers remain soft and gooey, creating truly perfect chewy snickerdoodles. For more information on baking science, you can refer to resources like Exploratorium’s Baking Science.

Can I make snickerdoodle cookie dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the snickerdoodle cookie dough, roll it into balls, coat them in cinnamon sugar, and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to an airtight container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time. If you have questions about food safety and storage, consult the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.

How do I avoid common mistakes with classic snickerdoodle cookies?

Avoid overmixing the dough after adding flour, as this makes cookies tough. Also, ensure you’re using cream of tartar; it’s what gives snickerdoodles their unique flavor and texture, differentiating them from plain sugar cookies. If you’re interested in learning more about common baking ingredients, you might find resources on King Arthur Baking helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Your Snickerdoodles

Once your homemade snickerdoodles have cooled, the real fun begins: enjoying them! These classic cinnamon sugar cookies are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk – a timeless combination that brings back childhood memories. For a more decadent treat, try crumbling a warm snickerdoodle over a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. They also make a wonderful addition to a holiday cookie platter, bringing a unique tangy sweetness alongside richer chocolate or buttery shortbread cookies. These simple snickerdoodle cookies are perfect for any occasion!

Snickerdoodle Variations You Can Try

While the classic recipe is divine, don’t be afraid to explore! These snickerdoodle variations let you play with flavors and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free snickerdoodles, vegan snickerdoodles, or just a new twist on these beloved cinnamon sugar cookies, there’s an option for everyone. Get creative and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this timeless treat.

Gluten-Free Snickerdoodles

To make gluten-free snickerdoodles, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free all-purpose baking blend that contains xanthan gum. You might need to slightly adjust the dough consistency; if it seems too dry, add a teaspoon of milk. The texture will be slightly different, but the flavor remains wonderfully the same.

Vegan Snickerdoodles

Creating vegan snickerdoodles is easy! Replace the butter with vegan butter sticks and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or commercial egg replacer instead of regular eggs. Ensure your granulated sugar is vegan-certified, as some sugars are processed with bone char. The result is a delicious, plant-based version of this classic cookie.

Nutrition Facts for Snickerdoodles

Here’s a nutritional breakdown for these delightful homemade snickerdoodles, based on the recipe yielding approximately 3 dozen cookies. These numbers are estimates and can vary slightly depending on exact ingredient measurements and brands used.

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 120 kcal
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Protein: 1.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 60 mg
• Cholesterol: 30 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your classic snickerdoodle cookies.

How to Store and Reheat Snickerdoodles

Properly storing your freshly baked snickerdoodles ensures they stay delicious for days. First, always let your cookies cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents any trapped steam from making them soggy. Once cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They maintain their delightful chewy texture and classic cinnamon sugar flavor beautifully. If you find yourself with an abundance of these homemade treats, or just want to bake ahead, freezing is an excellent option. You can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. For longer storage, consider wrapping individual cookies in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them at room temperature. If you prefer a warm cookie, you can gently reheat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or pop them in the microwave for just 10-15 seconds – be careful not to overheat them, you want them warm, not hard!

Frequently Asked Questions About Snickerdoodles

Why are snickerdoodles called snickerdoodles?

The exact origin of the name is a bit fuzzy, with theories pointing to German or Dutch roots, possibly meaning “little swirled things.” Some believe it’s just a whimsical, fun name that stuck for these classic cinnamon sugar cookies, making them feel extra special and playful.

What is cream of tartar and why is it important for snickerdoodles?

Cream of tartar is a powdered acid, a byproduct of winemaking. In these simple snickerdoodle recipe cookies, it reacts with baking soda to provide leavening and, more importantly, gives them their signature tangy flavor and chewy texture. It’s what truly distinguishes classic snickerdoodle cookies from plain sugar cookies. For more on its properties, you can check out information on baking ingredients.

Can I use a different type of sugar for the coating?

While granulated sugar is traditional for the coating on homemade snickerdoodles, you could experiment with turbinado sugar for a bit more crunch and a deeper molasses note. However, for that classic snickerdoodle appearance and flavor, granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon is best.

My snickerdoodles spread too much, what went wrong?

If your easy snickerdoodle cookies spread too much, it could be a few things: your butter might have been too soft or melted, you may have overmixed the dough, or your oven temperature might be too low. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature and your oven is accurately preheated for perfect chewy snickerdoodles. For troubleshooting baking issues, you might find help useful.

Snickerdoodles: 1 amazing chewy cookie recipe

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 3 dozen cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

These soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies are a classic comfort treat. Rolled in cinnamon sugar for a delightful crackled top, they are made with simple ingredients and feature the signature tangy flavor from cream of tartar. This easy snickerdoodle cookie recipe is perfect for homemade snickerdoodles.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is the base for your easy snickerdoodle cookies.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. This combination is key to classic snickerdoodle cookie ingredients.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix the snickerdoodle cookie dough.
6. In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for the cinnamon sugar coating.
7. Roll rounded tablespoons of dough into balls. Then, roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. This step is crucial for the signature snickerdoodle flavor.
8. Place the coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
9. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still slightly soft. These are your chewy snickerdoodles.
10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade snickerdoodles!

Notes

• For softer snickerdoodles, slightly underbake them.
• You can freeze the snickerdoodle cookie dough balls before baking for later.
• Experiment with snickerdoodle variations by adding chocolate chips or different spices.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 120 kcal
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 60 mg
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 1.5 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg

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