If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that perfectly balances softness, a touch of tang, and that iconic cinnamon-sugar crust, look no further than this Best Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe. These cookies melt in your mouth with a tender crumb, wrapped in a sweet, slightly crisp coating that’s just irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon treat or impressing guests with a classic cookie, this recipe delivers every time with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that yield extraordinary results.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in crafting those delightful snickerdoodles. From the creamy butter that gives softness to the flour that holds everything together, to the secret hint of cream of tartar that sets these cookies apart, each component works harmoniously to create that signature texture and flavor.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides the rich, creamy base that keeps cookies tender and moist.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps create a soft crumb.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together while adding moisture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the dough to ensure perfect rise and chewiness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar: Adds tangy notes and gives snickerdoodles their unique texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone that shapes these cookies.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating): Adds that signature sugary crunch on the outside.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating): Delivers the classic snickerdoodle spice punch.
How to Make Best Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two cookie sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper. This simple step guarantees your cookies won’t stick and helps them bake evenly, which is crucial for that perfect texture.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer, beat the softened butter and one cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light, about one minute. This creaming step aerates the dough, ensuring your cookies are soft and tender.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the dough is smooth. This enriches your dough with moisture and aroma, the foundation for that comforting cookie flavor.
Step 4: Blend the Dry Ingredients
Incorporate baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt, then gradually add the all-purpose flour. Stir until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overmix so the cookies stay tender and chewy.
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
Combine the remaining ¼ cup of granulated sugar with the ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This classic coating creates the snickerdoodle’s charming, slightly crisp, and sweet exterior that gives each bite its signature flavor.
Step 6: Shape and Coat Your Dough
Use a 2-tablespoon scoop to portion out the dough, roll each into a smooth ball, then toss in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated. Place them spaced about two inches apart on your prepared sheets to allow room for spreading during baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-13 minutes, watching for cracks on top and the loss of the glossy sheen. For that sought-after soft and chewy texture, it’s best to slightly underbake your cookies. Let them cool a few minutes on the baking sheets before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Best Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, dust your snickerdoodles with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or add a cinnamon stick on the side for presentation. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate these cookies into a dessert centerpiece.
Side Dishes
Pair your snickerdoodles with a cold glass of milk, a steaming cup of coffee, or a warm chai tea latte. The cozy, cinnamon-spiced cookies complement these beverages beautifully, making for a soul-warming treat any time of day.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap a batch in colorful cellophane tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful gift. You can also sandwich them with cream cheese frosting or ice cream to create delicious snickerdoodle ice cream sandwiches — a fun twist that everyone will love!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your snickerdoodles fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll maintain their soft texture for up to three days, perfect for quick snacks or spontaneous dessert cravings.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze them in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to one month. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking and to preserve their shape.
Reheating
Rewarm frozen or stored cookies for a few seconds in the microwave or a few minutes in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) to bring back that fresh-baked, just-out-of-the-oven softness that makes this Best Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe so beloved.
FAQs
What makes snickerdoodles different from regular sugar cookies?
Snickerdoodles are distinct thanks to their cinnamon-sugar coating and the inclusion of cream of tartar, which gives them a slightly tangy flavor and that signature chewy yet tender texture unlike typical sugar cookies.
Can I substitute cream of tartar if I don’t have it?
While cream of tartar is essential for the authentic tang and texture of snickerdoodles, you can substitute it with baking powder (which contains cream of tartar) but expect a slightly different flavor and texture.
Why are my snickerdoodles flat and crispy instead of soft and chewy?
Overbaking, too much butter, or not enough flour can cause the cookies to spread too much and become crispy. Make sure to slightly underbake them and measure ingredients carefully for the best chewy results.
Can I make these cookies vegan or gluten-free?
Yes! For vegan versions, swap butter for plant-based margarine and use flax eggs. Gluten-free all-purpose flour blends can replace regular flour, though texture may vary slightly.
How long will these cookies stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these snickerdoodles remain fresh and delicious for up to three days. Beyond that, freezing them is the best way to maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Best Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe is a warm hug in cookie form, perfect for every occasion from busy weekdays to holiday celebrations. Once you try homemade snickerdoodles bursting with cinnamon flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, you’ll never want store-bought again. So grab your ingredients and get baking — your new favorite cookie awaits!
Print
Best Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 22 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic Snickerdoodle cookie recipe featuring soft, chewy cookies rolled in a cinnamon-sugar coating, baked to perfection with a slightly crisp exterior and tender inside. Perfect for a cozy treat or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two cookie sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large bowl with a hand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy, about one minute.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix until smooth and fully combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Mix in the baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft cookie dough forms and all ingredients are just incorporated.
- Make Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, stir together the additional granulated sugar and ground cinnamon to make the coating for the cookies.
- Shape and Coat Dough: Scoop out 2-tablespoon portions of dough, roll each ball between the palms of your hands to form a smooth ball, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 10-13 minutes, or until they are cracked on top and just lose their glossy sheen. For best results, slightly underbake for a soft, chewy texture. Remove from the oven and let cool on the pans for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Storage: Store snickerdoodle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month for longer storage.
Notes
- Slightly underbaking the cookies will help maintain a soft and chewy texture.
- Using parchment paper or silicone mats helps prevent cookies from sticking and promotes even baking.
- Cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for extended freshness.
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for proper creaming with sugar.
