Reasons to Fall in Love with These Snickerdoodles
If you’ve ever craved the perfect balance of soft, chewy texture and that irresistible cinnamon-sugar flavor, Snickerdoodles are exactly what you need. Whether it’s the holidays or just a cozy afternoon at home, these classic snickerdoodle cookies are a perfect treat to enjoy with family or friends.
What makes these easy holiday cookies so special? They come together in under 30 minutes, using simple pantry staples you probably already have at home. Plus, the combination of cinnamon and sugar gives each bite a sweet, comforting warmth that’s hard to resist. Soft, chewy, and utterly satisfying, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser.
This Snickerdoodle recipe makes about 24 cookies, and the prep time is just 15 minutes, so they’re perfect for when you need a quick batch of cinnamon sugar cookies to share or enjoy yourself.
Table of Contents
Essential Ingredients for Snickerdoodles + Easy Substitutions
To make these delightful chewy cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Flour – The base of any cookie, providing structure.
- Baking soda – For that lift and light texture.
- Cream of tartar – This is essential for that signature tangy taste and to help the cookies spread just right.
- Butter – Adds richness and helps achieve that soft, chewy texture.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and is also used for rolling.
- Egg – Helps bind the dough together.
- Cinnamon – The key to that warm, spicy flavor.
- Vanilla extract – For extra depth in flavor.
Substitutions:
- If you’re out of cream of tartar, you can substitute with an equal amount of baking powder (though it may slightly alter the texture).
- Unsalted butter is ideal for this recipe, but if you only have salted butter, reduce the salt in the recipe slightly to maintain the balance.
- If you’re looking to make these cookies vegan, you can swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, set for a few minutes to thicken).
Serving Tips:
- If halving the recipe for fewer servings, adjust the baking time accordingly, but always watch the cookies for that slight golden edge to know when they’re ready.
Total Time & Servings for Perfect Snickerdoodles
Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing and servings for your Snickerdoodle cookies:
| Task | Time |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Serves | 24 cookies |
This recipe is not only quick but perfect for satisfying a sweet craving without spending too much time in the kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a batch for a party or a cozy snack, you’ll be able to enjoy these soft cookies in just under half an hour.
Essential Tools for Making Snickerdoodles
To make the perfect batch of Snickerdoodle cookies, here are the essential kitchen tools you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls – A medium-sized mixing bowl for combining your dry ingredients, and a larger one for your wet ingredients.
- Hand Mixer or Whisk – You can mix by hand, but a hand mixer makes it quicker and easier, especially when creaming the butter and sugar.
- Baking Sheet – A sturdy baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – Accurate measurements are key to perfect cookies, so don’t skip this step.
- Cookie Scoop – Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform-sized cookies, which will bake evenly.
- Cooling Rack – After baking, a cooling rack is essential to prevent cookies from becoming soggy.
Alternatives:
- No hand mixer? A regular whisk and some elbow grease will do the job!
- If you don’t have a cooling rack, you can use the back of your baking sheet, but a rack helps cool the cookies more evenly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Snickerdoodles
Making these chewy cookies is as easy as 1, 2, 3! Follow these steps for the ultimate cinnamon sugar cookies:
1. Prepare the Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. In a separate, larger bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until combined. Slowly add the dry ingredients and mix until the dough forms.
2. Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, combine cinnamon and granulated sugar. This will be the delicious coating that gives the Snickerdoodles their signature flavor.
3. Shape the Cookies
Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring they’re completely coated.
4. Bake the Cookies
Place the cinnamon-sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft.
5. Cool and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy the warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness!
Why This Snickerdoodle Recipe Stands Out
What makes this classic snickerdoodle recipe so special is the combination of cream of tartar and baking soda. These two ingredients work together to give the cookies a soft, chewy texture with a slight tang that is characteristic of true Snickerdoodles. The cinnamon-sugar coating adds just the right amount of sweetness and spice, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and irresistible.
The secret to the best Snickerdoodles is baking them just long enough to get that golden edge, while keeping the middle perfectly soft and chewy. The cream of tartar not only helps with texture but enhances the flavor, giving them that authentic Snickerdoodle taste.
Tasty Variations for Snickerdoodles
While the traditional snickerdoodle is a fan favorite, there are a few variations you can try to change things up or meet specific dietary preferences:
- Chocolate Chip Snickerdoodles – Add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet twist on the classic.
- Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles – For a fall-inspired treat, add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon-sugar mixture, or mix some pumpkin puree into the dough.
- Gluten-Free Snickerdoodles – Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Snickerdoodles – Use plant-based butter and a flax egg instead of traditional butter and eggs for a vegan version of these cookies.
If you’re in the mood for an even sweeter treat, consider dipping the warm cookies in white chocolate or adding a drizzle of caramel to make them extra indulgent. These easy holiday cookies can be customized for every occasion!
Expert Tips for Perfect Snickerdoodles
Making perfect Snickerdoodle cookies requires more than just following the recipe — a few expert tips will take your cookies from good to great:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – For the best texture, make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures they blend together smoothly and create a light, airy dough.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough – Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Stir until just combined, and no more.
- Measure Your Flour Correctly – Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can cause them to spread too much.
- Chill the Dough – If you have time, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes will help prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, keeping them thick and chewy.
- Perfect Cinnamon-Sugar Coating – Coat your dough balls evenly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. For an extra touch, you can add a pinch of salt to the sugar for a balance of flavors.
- Watch Your Bake Time – Keep a close eye on your cookies. They should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. Overbaking will lead to crunchy cookies, so pull them out just as they begin to set.
Storage & Reheating Tips for Snickerdoodles
To ensure your soft Snickerdoodles stay fresh and delicious for days, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:
- Storing Snickerdoodles – Once your cookies are fully cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy.
- Freezing Snickerdoodles – If you want to store them for longer, Snickerdoodles freeze wonderfully. Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Reheating Tips – If you want to enjoy your Snickerdoodles warm, reheat them in the oven at 300°F for 3-5 minutes. For individual cookies, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave will bring them back to life.
Avoid These Mistakes When Making Snickerdoodles
Here are some common mistakes people make when baking Snickerdoodles, and how to avoid them:
- Overmixing the Dough: This will lead to dense cookies instead of light, chewy ones. Mix only until combined.
- Using Cold Butter: If your butter is too cold, it won’t cream properly, affecting the texture of your cookies. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Skipping the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: The cinnamon-sugar coating is what gives Snickerdoodles their signature flavor. Don’t skip it!
- Not Chilling the Dough: If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for thicker, chewier cookies.
- Overbaking: Snickerdoodles should be slightly soft in the middle when you pull them out of the oven. Overbaking them will result in hard cookies.
Your Questions About Snickerdoodles, Answered
Can I make Snickerdoodles in advance?
Yes, Snickerdoodles can be made in advance! You can bake them up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container. Or, make the dough ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake the cookies when you’re ready.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely! This recipe scales well. Just double the ingredients and bake in batches if necessary. Make sure to adjust your baking time if you’re using larger baking sheets.
What’s the best way to prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and prevents them from spreading excessively.
Can I freeze Snickerdoodles?
Yes, Snickerdoodles freeze beautifully! Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Snickerdoodles
Looking for the perfect pairing to accompany your delicious Snickerdoodle cookies? Here are a few ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
- Classic Pairings: Snickerdoodles are fantastic with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. The richness of the cinnamon sugar complements the creaminess of milk, making it a match made in heaven.
- For a Cozy Touch: Pair these cookies with a hot chocolate on a chilly day. The rich flavors of cocoa and cinnamon in the Snickerdoodles will blend beautifully.
- Try a Twist: For a more festive vibe, serve Snickerdoodles alongside a bowl of fresh fruit like berries or apples. The fruity freshness contrasts wonderfully with the sweet, spiced cookies.
- Regional Recommendations: In the U.S., Snickerdoodles are a staple at holiday parties. Pair them with a holiday punch or spiced cider for a cozy treat. If you’re in Europe, consider serving with a classic tea, like Earl Grey, for a sophisticated afternoon snack.
Looking for the best sides for Snickerdoodles? Serve them at a party with other cookie varieties, like cinnamon sugar cookies, or pair them with a light dessert like a fruit salad for balance.
Nutritional Breakdown: Snickerdoodles Facts
Here’s a detailed look at the nutrition facts for Snickerdoodles, helping you keep track of what’s in your cookies while you enjoy their irresistible flavor:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 cookie) |
| Calories | 100 kcal |
| Total Fat | 4g |
| – Saturated Fat | 2g |
| – Unsaturated Fat | 1g |
| – Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
| Sodium | 45mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 14g |
| – Fiber | 0g |
| – Sugars | 9g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Vitamins | Vitamin A: 2% DV |
| Vitamin C: 0% DV | |
| Minerals | Calcium: 1% DV |
| Iron: 1% DV | |
| Dietary Details | Vegetarian, Nut-Free |
| Serving Size | 1 cookie |
| Allergens | Contains Dairy, Gluten |
| Special Diet Suitability | Not suitable for Gluten-Free, Vegan |
| Key Benefits | Quick energy boost, rich in cinnamon for metabolism boost |
These soft cookies offer a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with moderate calorie content, making them a great treat for an occasional snack.
The Delicious Story Behind Snickerdoodles
Snickerdoodles have a rich history, rooted in the traditions of European baking. The name “Snickerdoodle” is believed to be derived from the German word “Schneckennudeln,” a type of cinnamon roll. Over time, this treat evolved in the U.S. into the soft, chewy cookies we know and love today.
Snickerdoodles became especially popular in New England during the 19th century, with recipes varying by region. Their timeless flavor, marked by the warm cinnamon sugar coating, made them a favorite for many during the holiday season and beyond.
This authentic Snickerdoodle recipe pays homage to those early traditions while offering the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering or a casual snack, they always bring a taste of history and tradition to the table.
We’d Love to See Your Snickerdoodle Creations!
We’d love to hear how this Snickerdoodle recipe turned out for you! Leave a comment below or tag us on Instagram with #MyDeliciousSnickerdoodles. Sharing your creation helps others find the joy of making these cookies at home.
Quick, easy, and utterly delicious—this Snickerdoodle recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves soft cookies with a cinnamon twist. Don’t forget to rate this recipe and share your tips in the comments. We can’t wait to see how you make it your own!