Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe

 Snickerdoodle cookies are a classic American treat that has been beloved for generations. These cookies are known for their soft, chewy texture and the delightful combination of cinnamon and sugar that coats the outside. If you're looking for a cookie that’s simple to make yet incredibly satisfying, snickerdoodles are the perfect choice. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to bake the perfect batch.

Description

Snickerdoodles are soft, buttery cookies that are rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking. The result is a cookie that’s slightly crisp on the outside but tender and chewy on the inside. The cinnamon-sugar coating gives them their signature flavor, while a touch of cream of tartar adds a subtle tang, making these cookies truly unique.

Ingredients

To make a batch of classic snickerdoodle cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 3/4 cups (350g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for coating)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.

2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The mixture should be smooth and well-combined.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.

5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar with the ground cinnamon.

2. Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies

1. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough, rolling each piece into a ball.

2. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

3. Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

4. Gently press each ball down slightly with the palm of your hand to flatten them just a bit.

5. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still look soft.

6. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations & Tips

While the classic snickerdoodle recipe is delightful on its own, there are plenty of ways to add your own twist to this cookie:

• Brown Butter Snickerdoodles: For a richer flavor, try browning the butter before using it in the dough. Brown butter adds a nutty, caramelized taste that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon-sugar coating.

• Pumpkin Snickerdoodles: Add 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the dough for a seasonal twist.

• Gluten-Free Snickerdoodles: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking soda and cream of tartar are also gluten-free.

• Chai Spiced Snickerdoodles: Replace the cinnamon in the coating with a mixture of ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves for a warm, spiced flavor.

Tips:

• Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the cookies keep their shape and prevents them from spreading too much.
• Don’t Overbake: Snickerdoodles should be soft and chewy, so be sure to take them out of the oven when the edges are set, but the centers are still slightly soft.
• Store Properly: Keep your snickerdoodles fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to a week.

Final Thought

Snickerdoodle cookies are a timeless treat that never fails to impress. With their soft texture and sweet cinnamon flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in. By following this recipe and experimenting with the variations, you’ll be able to create your own batch of snickerdoodles that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Happy baking!