Christmas Snickerdoodles Recipe

If you’re searching for a cookie that instantly brings holiday cheer, look no further than these Christmas Snickerdoodles. They take the classic snickerdoodle you already adore—soft, chewy, with just the right touch of cinnamon—and dress them up with sparkling red, green, and white sanding sugars to make every bite feel like a festive celebration. These cookies are perfect for holiday parties, gifting, or cozy evenings by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. Trust me, once you try these, Christmas baking will never be the same.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Christmas Snickerdoodles lies in their simple, carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the cream of tartar gives the cookies their signature tang and chewy texture, while the colorful sanding sugars add that unmistakable festive pop right on the outside.

• 3 cups all purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and softness for your cookies.
• 2 tsp cream of tartar: Essential for that classic snickerdoodle tang and chewy bite.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps with gentle leavening so the cookies rise just right.
• 1/2 tsp fine salt: Balances the sweetness and boosts flavor.
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon: A touch of warm spice that gives snickerdoodles their cozy character.
• Pinch of ground cardamom: A subtle fruity note that elevates the holiday vibe.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, lightly softened: Gives richness and tenderness to the dough.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and adds texture when creamed with butter.
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Brings moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature: Helps bind everything and adds moisture.
• 1 Tbsp vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract: Infuses that warm, fragrant sweetness that’s impossible to resist.
• Christmas red, green, and white sanding sugar: The festive finishing touch that makes these snickerdoodles truly shine.

How to Make Christmas Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the pan without sticking, giving them a perfect shape and texture every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. This blend of dry ingredients forms the flavorful base of your Christmas Snickerdoodles, layering in spice and ensuring a soft, tender crumb.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes. You want this mixture to become light and fluffy—that airiness is what leads to soft cookies. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides occasionally so everything is evenly creamed.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract. This step adds moisture and that irresistible vanilla warmth that ties all the flavors together.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Slowly add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so a gentle hand is key to preserving that tender, chewy texture Christmas Snickerdoodles are famous for.

Step 6: Roll in Festive Sugars

Divide the dough into small balls—about 1.5 tablespoons each—and roll them in the colorful red, green, and white sanding sugars. This creates a festive coating that adds a subtle crunch and holiday sparkle to each cookie.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 7 minutes or until the edges have set but the center is still soft. That slight softness is what makes these cookies so chew-worthy and absolutely delicious.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling helps set the edges while keeping the middle chewy and soft—exactly what you want in your Christmas Snickerdoodles.

How to Serve Christmas Snickerdoodles

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, dust your Christmas Snickerdoodles with a light sprinkle of extra cinnamon or even a pinch of edible glitter. These tiny accents elevate the presentation and make them look even more magical on your holiday dessert table.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a range of festive beverages. From a classic cup of hot cocoa with whipped cream to a spiced eggnog or even a warm mug of mulled cider, the sweet cinnamon and sugar flavors of the snickerdoodles complement these drinks perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re gifting or displaying these treats, consider stacking them in clear cellophane bags tied with red or green ribbons, or arranging them on a festive platter with sprigs of fresh rosemary or holly. Another fun idea is placing them in holiday-themed tins alongside other cookie varieties for a stunning cookie gift box.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Christmas Snickerdoodles fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and flavorful for up to a week, making them a wonderful make-ahead dessert for those busy holiday days.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents them from sticking together. Frozen Christmas Snickerdoodles can be stored for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy your Christmas Snickerdoodles warm, gently heat them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a warm oven for a few minutes. This revives their delightful softness and brings out that freshly baked aroma, making every bite taste freshly made.

FAQs

Can I make Christmas Snickerdoodles vegan or dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the butter with vegan butter and use flax or chia eggs as an egg replacement. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, but the festive spirit remains just as delightful.

Why do snickerdoodles use cream of tartar?

Cream of tartar adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness and helps give snickerdoodles their classic chewy texture. It also reacts with baking soda to help the cookies rise properly.

Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of sanding sugar?

You can use granulated sugar, but sanding sugar adds a sparkling, festive look and a slight crunch that’s perfect for Christmas Snickerdoodles. Using sanding sugar really enhances the holiday feel.

What is the best way to store Christmas Snickerdoodles for gifting?

Layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper inside an airtight container or tin. This keeps them from sticking together and maintains their freshness during transport.

How long do Christmas Snickerdoodles stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh for up to one week. Their soft, chewy texture actually improves after a day or two, so they’re perfect for preparing in advance.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making and sharing Christmas Snickerdoodles—they’re more than just cookies, they’re a joyful holiday tradition wrapped in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, a last-minute gift, or just because, these festive treats are bound to bring smiles, warmth, and that unmistakable Christmas spirit to your home. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to fill your kitchen with unforgettable holiday magic!