Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies

Name: Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup light brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for coating); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

By:

Marry

Published:

October 28, 2025

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Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies bring back wonderful memories of cozy kitchens filled with warmth and laughter. The delightful aroma wafting through the air as they bake is hard to resist. With their soft, chewy texture and a sweet, spicy cinnamon sugar coating, these cookies are a timeless treat that never goes out of style. Imagine gathering with friends and family, sharing stories, and enjoying a fresh batch of these delicious cookies. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a Tuesday afternoon, Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies add a touch of sweetness to any moment. Plus, baking them is an enjoyable experience that allows you to create something special right from your own kitchen. So grab your mixing bowls and let’s get started on this cookie adventure that will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to perfect Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies lies in the balance of ingredients and techniques. First off, combining cream of tartar with baking soda creates that ideal lift and chewiness we all crave. This combination works wonders, helping the cookies rise beautifully without becoming too cakey. Moreover, chilling the dough for 30 minutes enhances the flavors, making every bite richer while preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. You’ll end up with those perfectly rounded shapes. Lastly, the double dusting of cinnamon sugar provides an irresistible texture and flavor that makes snickerdoodles so beloved. Who can say no to that sweet, spicy crunch on the outside?

Why You’ll Love This Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies

Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies hold a special place in many hearts. They remind us of childhood moments spent baking with loved ones and gathering around the table. Each bite is a trip down memory lane, conjuring images of family get-togethers, holiday cheer, and the comforting embrace of home. The delightful balance of cinnamon and sugar takes cookies to the next level, delighting cookie lovers young and old. Plus, their soft, chewy texture is like a warm hug, making them a favorite for creating cozy memories. Whether you’re sharing them at a party or quietly enjoying one with your morning coffee, there’s always a reason to love these cookies.

Ingredients for Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies

To whip up a delightful batch of these cookies, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:

1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Don’t forget to prepare this delicious mixture for coating:

3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies

Whisk the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt in a medium mixing bowl. Take your time to ensure everything is well combined. This step sets the stage for the perfect cookie texture.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

Next, in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter alongside the granulated sugar and light brown sugar. Keep mixing on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This is where you’ll see the magic happen!

Add Egg and Vanilla

Once your butter and sugar mixture is fluffy, it’s time to beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. This adds a lovely depth of flavor to your cookies.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly add your dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Beat just until combined—be careful not to overmix. You want a smooth dough, but it shouldn’t be too stiff.

Chill the Dough

Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate it for 30 minutes. Chilling the dough enhances the flavors and keeps your cookies from spreading too much when baking. It’s a simple step but one that makes a big difference!

Prepare for Baking

While the dough chills, go ahead and preheat your oven to 375°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will make sure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the sheets.

Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating. Remember to reserve a few teaspoons of this mixture to sprinkle on the cookies after they bake. This adds that extra touch of sweetness!

Form the Cookies

Once your dough is ready, take it out of the fridge. Using your hands, form the chilled dough into balls about two tablespoons in size. Roll each ball in your cinnamon sugar mixture until it’s completely coated.

Arrange on Baking Sheets

Place your coated dough balls a few inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. This will allow room for the cookies to spread as they bake.

Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they start to crack in the center and turn golden brown on the top and edges. Keep an eye on them—they can go from perfect to overdone quickly!

Add Final Touch

Once baked, take the cookies out of the oven and sprinkle them immediately with the reserved cinnamon sugar. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cooling process is essential for developing that perfect texture!

Serving Suggestions

Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies shine in any setting. They’re especially delightful when served warm with a cold glass of milk. This classic pairing is hard to beat! They also taste wonderful alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert. Imagine those warm cookies melting with the cold ice cream—pure bliss!

Tips for Success

To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, remember that the butter should be softened, not melted. This creates the best mixing consistency. Additionally, refrigerating the dough is vital; it adds that ideal chewy texture everyone loves.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies! Consider adding white chocolate chips or nuts for a unique twist. You can even experiment with different spices like nutmeg for varied flavor profiles. The possibilities are endless!

Storage Tips

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to prepare ahead, freeze cookie dough balls for quick baking later; just add a couple of minutes to the baking time. It’s an excellent way to always have fresh cookies on hand!

Pairing Ideas

For cozy fall evenings, pair your cookies with a warm cup of apple cider. In the winter, hot cocoa complements them perfectly. Moreover, these cookies go wonderfully with coffee or tea at any time of the day, making for an ideal snack or dessert.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour; just keep in mind that the texture may be denser.

2. How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are perfect when they’re golden around the edges and slightly soft in the center.

3. Can I make snickerdoodle bars instead?
Yes, you can! Simply press the cookie dough into a lined baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes. A fun twist for those who prefer bar cookies!

4. What if I don’t have cream of tartar?
If you’re out of cream of tartar, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar for every 1/2 teaspoon needed.

5. How do I make them gluten-free?
To make these cookies gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the right texture.

Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies capture the essence of childhood baking and family togetherness. With their soft, chewy texture and sugary cinnamon coating, they’re perfect for any occasion, from cozy evenings at home to festive gatherings. No matter how you enjoy them, these cookies promise to deliver smiles and comfort in every bite. Happy baking!