Old Fashioned Snickerdoodle Cookies

7 days ago3 min read

The Ultimate Snickerdoodle Cookie Recipe: Soft, Chewy, and Irresistible

When it comes to classic, comfort cookies, snickerdoodles hold a special place in our hearts. With their cinnamon-sugar coating, soft centers, and slightly crisp edges, these cookies are an easy favorite to enjoy again and again.

Whether you're baking for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or just because, snickerdoodles are always a crowd-pleaser.

In this post, I’m sharing everything you need to know about snickerdoodle cookies—from the perfect recipe and some helpful baking tips to get that flawless texture and flavor.

What Are Snickerdoodles?

Snickerdoodles are a type of sugar cookie that’s rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking. The name itself is fun and whimsical, but the taste is what makes them truly special. Their distinct flavor comes from a touch of cream of tartar, which gives them that signature tangy taste that contrasts perfectly with the sweet cinnamon sugar coating.

These cookies are beloved for their soft, chewy centers and slightly crisp edges. They can be made in a variety of ways, but the best snickerdoodle cookies have a perfect balance of softness and chewiness, with just enough spice to make them addictive.

Snickerdoodle Cookie Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect batch of snickerdoodle cookies:

For the Cookies:

all-purpose flour – The base of the cookie dough. Be sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off for accuracy.
cream of tartar – This is the key ingredient that gives snickerdoodles their signature tang. It also helps to activate the baking soda, which gives the cookies their chewy texture.
baking soda – Works alongside the cream of tartar to give the cookies the right lift and texture.
salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies and balances the sweetness.
unsalted butter – Softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the cookies spread slightly as they bake.
eggs – These provide moisture and help bind the dough together.
vanilla extract – For a rich, aromatic flavor.

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps form a slightly crisp outer layer on the cookies.
ground cinnamon – This is the signature spice in snickerdoodles. Adjust the amount to your preference for more or less cinnamon flavor.

Snickerdoodle Baking Tips for Success

Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can lead to dense cookies. Mix the dough just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies with a slightly more defined shape, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents excessive spreading.
Check for Doneness: Snickerdoodles can go from perfectly baked to overdone in a matter of a minute. Keep an eye on them, and take them out of the oven when they’re lightly golden at the edges. They’ll continue to cook as they cool.
Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other warm spices like nutmeg, ginger, or even a pinch of cloves for a unique twist.
Make Ahead and Store: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. I scoop out the cookie balls then chill or freeze. Make sure to seal the bag well getting as much air out as possible.

Snickerdoodles: A Perfect Treat for Every Occasion

Snickerdoodle cookies are the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and chewy, making them an ideal treat for just about any occasion. Whether you're serving them at a holiday gathering, packing them in a lunchbox, or just enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit.

With this simple, foolproof recipe, you’ll have the perfect snickerdoodle cookies every time. So grab your mixing bowl, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in a batch of warm, cinnamon-sugar bliss!