Why Make This Recipe
Snickerdoodle cookies are a classic treat that everyone loves. Their soft and chewy texture combined with a sweet cinnamon sugar coating makes them irresistibly delicious. Making snickerdoodles at home is simple, and they fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma that brings warm memories. These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends, family, or enjoying with a cozy cup of tea or coffee.
How to Make Snickerdoodle Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Directions:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix the remaining sugar and cinnamon together.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. You can press them down slightly if you like.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
How to Serve Snickerdoodle Cookies
Snickerdoodle cookies are best served warm. You can enjoy them as is or pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They are great for special occasions, cookie swaps, or just a cozy night at home. For extra fun, try topping them with a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped nuts!
How to Store Snickerdoodle Cookies
To keep your snickerdoodle cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to one week this way. If you want to keep them for a longer time, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper in between layers to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Tips to Make Snickerdoodle Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for better mixing.
- Do not overbake the cookies. They should be slightly underbaked in the center to stay soft.
- Adjust the cinnamon sugar ratio to your taste. You can add more cinnamon for a stronger flavor.
Variations
For a fun twist on traditional snickerdoodles, consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even caramel bits to the dough. You can also try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make snickerdoodle cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking.
2. What is cream of tartar used for in snickerdoodles?
Cream of tartar helps to give snickerdoodles their chewy texture and adds a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
3. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you might want to reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid making the cookies too salty.
