Snickerdoodle Cookies are an irresistible treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to any occasion. These delightful cookies are soft, chewy, and generously coated in cinnamon sugar, making them perfect for dessert tables, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night in. With this easy recipe, you can whip up the best Snickerdoodle Cookies that are bursting with flavor and sure to impress family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: These Snickerdoodle Cookies come out soft and chewy every time, ensuring a satisfying bite.
- Versatile for Occasions: Whether for holidays, birthdays, or just a sweet treat at home, these cookies fit every event.
- Delicious Cinnamon Sugar Coating: The double dip in cinnamon sugar adds a delightful crunch and flavor that makes them stand out.
- Freezer Friendly: Prepare a batch in advance and store the dough in the freezer for fresh cookies anytime!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will help you create your Snickerdoodle Cookies smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Wire cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand Mixer: A stand mixer saves time by mixing ingredients evenly without much effort on your part.
- Cookie Scoop: This tool ensures uniform cookie sizes, leading to even baking and consistent texture across all cookies.
- Wire Cooling Rack: Using a cooling rack allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing sogginess as they cool.
Ingredients
To create these delicious Snickerdoodle Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup salted butter (2 sticks, softened)
- 1 and 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 and 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
How to Make Snickerdoodle Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or using silicone mats.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl or stand mixer:
1. Beat the softened butter for about two minutes until smooth. Scrape the sides occasionally.
2. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar; beat for another two minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
Stir together flour, baking soda, kosher salt, and cream of tartar using a small spoon.
Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Shape Your Cookies
Using a large cookie scoop or spoon:
1. Form dough balls about 1.5 to 2 inches across.
2. Roll each ball in cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place cookie dough balls on prepared sheets with about two inches of space between them:
1. Bake at 350 degrees for about 9-11 minutes until edges are set but centers remain shiny.
2. Remove from oven; use a spoon to gently push edges toward centers within the first minute.
Step 6: Cool and Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Allow cookies to cool on pans for about 3-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack:
1. While warm but manageable, roll each cookie again in cinnamon-sugar for an extra coating.
2. Enjoy fresh cookies right away or store them properly!
By following these steps carefully, you’ll achieve perfectly soft Snickerdoodle Cookies that everyone will love!
How to Serve Snickerdoodle Cookies
Snickerdoodle cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, here are some fun serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pairing your snickerdoodle cookies with an ice-cold glass of milk enhances the flavors and provides a classic combination that many love.
As an Ice Cream Sandwich
- Take two snickerdoodle cookies and sandwich your favorite ice cream between them for a deliciously creamy twist.
At Holiday Gatherings
- These cookies make great festive treats. Arrange them on a platter for holiday parties, or package them as gifts for friends and family.
Crumbled Over Yogurt
- For a unique breakfast or snack, crumble snickerdoodle cookies over yogurt. This adds sweetness and texture to your dish.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your snickerdoodle cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. The spices in the cookies complement these beverages beautifully.
On Dessert Charcuterie Boards
- Include snickerdoodle cookies as part of a dessert charcuterie board. They pair well with fruits, nuts, and other sweets for an impressive display.
How to Perfect Snickerdoodle Cookies
To ensure your snickerdoodle cookies come out perfectly every time, consider the following tips.
- Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method when measuring flour to avoid dense cookies.
- Do not overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Bake until just set: Remove from the oven when the edges are barely golden; underbaking slightly helps maintain chewiness.
- Shape quickly after baking: Shape your cookies right after they come out of the oven for perfect roundness and thickness.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding different toppings like chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Snickerdoodle Cookies
Snickerdoodle cookies can be complemented by several delicious side dishes. Here are some ideas to enhance your dessert experience.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness of snickerdoodles.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory contrast to sweet cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of snickerdoodle into warm chocolate for an indulgent treat.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up toppings like sprinkles, whipped cream, and nuts alongside ice cream for customizable desserts.
- Coffee Cake: Serve alongside slices of moist coffee cake for a delightful brunch option.
- Nut Mix: A bowl of assorted nuts can provide crunchy textures that pair nicely with soft cookies.
- Pudding Cups: Creamy pudding cups can be served as a rich side dish that complements the flavors in snickerdoodles.
- Mini Muffins: Offer mini muffins in various flavors as bite-sized treats alongside your cookie spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Snickerdoodle Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined for soft and chewy cookies.
- Ignoring Ingredient Temperatures: Using cold butter can affect the texture. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best results.
- Not Measuring Flour Properly: Packing flour leads to dry cookies. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag.
- Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and check with an oven thermometer if needed.
- Skipping the Cinnamon Sugar Roll: Not coating your cookies in cinnamon sugar means missing out on that signature flavor. Be generous with the coating for maximum taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- You can also store dough in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking.
Freezing Snickerdoodle Cookies
- Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or ziplock bag.
- They will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Snickerdoodle Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overdo it as they can become chewy.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat; cover with a lid for a few minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Snickerdoodle Cookies:
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just add a pinch of salt to maintain flavor balance.
How do I know when my snickerdoodles are done?
Look for slightly set edges and shiny centers. They should appear matte rather than wet.
Can I add chocolate chips to my snickerdoodle cookies?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips gives a fun twist while still keeping the snickerdoodle essence.
Why are my snickerdoodles flat?
Flat cookies may result from too much sugar or not enough flour. Be sure to measure accurately!
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly, they stay fresh for about one week at room temperature.
Final Thoughts
These Snickerdoodle Cookies are not just delightful treats; they’re incredibly versatile too! You can customize them by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even experimenting with different spices. Try this easy recipe today, and enjoy warm, flavorful cookies that bring comfort and joy with every bite!
Snickerdoodle Cookies
Snickerdoodle Cookies are the ultimate comfort treat, combining a soft and chewy texture with a delightful cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth that will impress family and friends alike. With an easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a batch of these delicious cookies in no time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter (softened)
- 1 and 1/3 cups granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 and 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter until smooth. Add granulated and brown sugars; mix until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla; combine well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar. Gradually add to wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
- Scoop dough into balls (about 1.5 inches) and roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place on prepared sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes until edges are set but centers remain shiny.
- Allow to cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (24g)
- Calories: 99
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
