Snickerdoodle Recipe

Snickerdoodle cookies are a timeless treat beloved for their soft, chewy texture and warm cinnamon-sugar coating. Slightly tangy thanks to cream of tartar, these cookies have a crackly top and a tender bite that’s hard to resist. Perfect with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee, they are a cozy addition to any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These snickerdoodles are easy to make, use simple pantry ingredients, and deliver bakery-style results at home. Their lightly crisp edges and chewy centers, combined with the comforting cinnamon flavor, make them a standout cookie for holidays or everyday baking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ cups sugar

• ½ cup salted butter, softened

• ½ cup shortening

• 2 large eggs

• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ cup sugar (for coating)

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).

2. In a large bowl, cream together 1½ cups sugar, butter, shortening, and eggs until light and fluffy.

3. Stir in flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt until the dough comes together.

4. In a small bowl, mix the ¼ cup sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon.

5. Shape the dough into 1¼-inch balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat.

6. Place on an ungreased baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are crackled.

8. Let cookies cool briefly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Approximately 48 cookies

• Prep time: 40 minutes

• Bake time: 8–10 minutes per batch

• Total time: About 50 minutes

Variations

• Use all butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor.

• Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.

• Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for added depth.

• For a softer, puffier version, use cake flour.

• Make them gluten-free by substituting a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

• Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the coating for a spiced twist.

Storage/reheating

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

• To freeze, place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

• Freeze unbaked dough balls (without coating) and roll in cinnamon sugar before baking.

• Reheat cookies in a 300°F oven for 3–5 minutes to refresh their texture.

FAQs

1. What makes snickerdoodles different from sugar cookies?

Snickerdoodles contain cream of tartar, which adds a tangy flavor and chewy texture that sets them apart from standard sugar cookies.

2. Can I use all butter instead of butter and shortening?

Yes, using all butter is a common variation, though it may make the cookies spread a bit more.

3. Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling is optional but helps prevent spreading and results in a thicker cookie.

4. Why do snickerdoodles crack on top?

The crackled tops are caused by the baking soda and cream of tartar reacting during baking, along with the sugar coating.

5. Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, the dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

6. What’s the best cinnamon to use?

Any ground cinnamon works, but high-quality varieties like Saigon or Ceylon will enhance the flavor.

7. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges are set and the tops are slightly crackled, even if the centers look slightly underbaked.

8. Can I make smaller or larger cookies?

Yes, just adjust the size of the dough balls and the baking time accordingly.

9. Are snickerdoodles supposed to be soft or crispy?

They are typically soft and chewy with slightly crisp edges.

10. Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough?

Yes, chocolate chips or chopped nuts can be added for a fun variation.

Conclusion

Snickerdoodle cookies are a comforting classic that never goes out of style. With their chewy texture, cinnamon-sugar coating, and distinctive flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion. This recipe delivers consistent results and can be easily adapted to suit your taste, making it a must-have in your baking repertoire.

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