The Best Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe
Snickerdoodle cookies are one of the most beloved treats in the baking world. With their soft, chewy texture, cinnamon-sugar coating, and sweet aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake, these cookies are a true comfort food. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, making snickerdoodles is a fun and rewarding experience.
This article will guide you through the best snickerdoodle recipe, providing step by step instructions to help you create these delicious cookies from scratch.
What Are Snickerdoodle Cookies?
Snickerdoodle cookies are a traditional American treat known for their unique combination of ingredients that results in a sweet, slightly tangy flavor. The key to their distinct taste is the use of cream of tartar, which gives the cookies their soft, chewy texture and a subtle tanginess. The cookies are rolled in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking, creating a delightful, sweet coating on the outside.
These cookies have been a favorite for generations, often associated with cozy afternoons and festive holidays. Their simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make them an easy go to for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just a casual treat, snickerdoodles are sure to please.
Ingredients for the Best Snickerdoodle Recipe
To make snickerdoodle cookies, you’ll need some basic items. Here’s a list of ingredients for this classic recipe:
For the Cookies:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Snickerdoodle Cookies
Making snickerdoodles is a simple process that yields delicious results. Follow these easy steps to bake your own batch of these classic cookies.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s important to have your oven ready before you begin baking, as this ensures the cookies bake evenly and properly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. The cream of tartar is what gives snickerdoodles their signature tangy flavor and soft texture, so don’t skip it! Set the bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or stand mixer for this step, but a hand whisk will also work if you don’t have an electric mixer. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your cookies. Once the dough comes together, you’ll notice that it’s soft but firm enough to handle.
Step 5: Roll the Dough into Balls
Now it’s time to form the dough into small balls. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough at a time and roll it into a ball using your hands. This will give your cookies that classic round shape. Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking.
Step 6: Coat the Dough Balls in Cinnamon-Sugar
In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together for the coating. Roll each dough ball in this mixture until it’s evenly coated on all sides. This cinnamon sugar coating is what gives snickerdoodles their signature flavor and slightly crunchy exterior.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the cinnamon-sugar-coated dough balls onto the preheated baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes. The cookies will spread and puff up slightly, and they should have a light golden color around the edges when done. Keep an eye on them as they bake quickly, and you don’t want them to overcook.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, giving them their signature chewy texture.
Tips for Making the Best Snickerdoodles
- Use Room Temperature Butter: To get the best texture, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. Cold butter will not cream properly with the sugar, leading to a less smooth dough.
- Don’t Skip the Cream of Tartar: Cream of tartar is an essential ingredient in snickerdoodle cookies. It helps activate the baking soda and gives the cookies their signature soft texture and tangy flavor. Without it, the cookies won’t have the same texture or taste.
- Don’t Overbake: Snickerdoodles are best when they’re soft and chewy. Overbaking them will result in dry cookies. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn light golden brown.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape and can make them slightly thicker.
- Use Fresh Cinnamon: For the best cinnamon-sugar coating, use fresh ground cinnamon. The flavor will be more vibrant and aromatic, making your cookies even more delicious.
FAQs About Snickerdoodle Cookies
Q: Can I make snickerdoodles ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make snickerdoodles ahead of time. You can prepare the dough, roll it into balls, and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake them as usual, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use salted butter in this recipe?
A: While you can use salted butter, it’s better to use unsalted butter in this recipe. Salted butter can affect the overall flavor of the cookies. If you only have salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid making the cookies too salty.
Q: Why do my snickerdoodles spread too much?
A: If your snickerdoodles are spreading too much, it could be because the dough is too soft. Try chilling the dough for a bit before rolling it into balls and baking. Also, make sure your oven is at the correct temperature, as baking at a lower temperature could cause the cookies to spread more.
Q: Can I add other flavors to snickerdoodle cookies?
A: While traditional snickerdoodles are simply flavored with cinnamon and vanilla, you can experiment with adding other flavors. Some people like to add a touch of nutmeg or a dash of almond extract for a different twist on the classic recipe.
Q: Can I make gluten-free snickerdoodles?
A: Yes, you can make gluten-free snickerdoodles by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten free flour blend. Be sure to use one that is specifically designed for baking to get the right texture.
Q: How do I store leftover snickerdoodle cookies?
A: Store leftover snickerdoodle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to layer the cookies with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Conclusion
Snickerdoodle cookies are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Their soft, chewy texture and sweet cinnamon sugar coating make them irresistible. This simple recipe is easy to follow and perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. By following the steps and tips in this guide, you can create the best snickerdoodle cookies that will have everyone asking for more. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking these delicious cookies today!
