The BEST Snickerdoodle Recipe (Perfectly Soft and Chewy)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft & Chewy Texture: Achieved through precise mixing and baking techniques.

• Bursting with Flavor: A double dip in cinnamon sugar ensures every bite is packed with taste.

• No Chilling Required: Unlike many cookie recipes, this one doesn’t require dough chilling.

• Freezer-Friendly: Prepare dough in advance and bake fresh cookies later.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup salted butter (2 sticks), softened

• 1 and 1/3 cups granulated sugar

• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar

• 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

For rolling:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1 and 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating until light and fluffy.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring each is fully combined.

4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Shape the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form dough balls about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter.

6. Roll in Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Roll each dough ball in this mixture until fully coated.

7. Bake: Place dough balls on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until edges are barely set.

8. Shape Post-Baking: Immediately after removing from the oven, use a spoon to gently push the edges of each cookie toward the center to achieve a round shape.

9. Cool and Coat Again: Allow cookies to set on the pan for 3–5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. While still warm, dip each cookie back into the cinnamon-sugar mixture for an extra flavor boost.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 33 cookies

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Mexican Hot Chocolate Snickerdoodles: Add cocoa powder and a pinch of chili powder for a spicy twist.

• Cinnamon Roll Snickerdoodles: Incorporate a cinnamon-sugar swirl into the dough for a cinnamon roll-inspired flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Freeze dough balls before baking. When ready to bake, place directly on a baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

• Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore softness.

FAQs

How do I prevent my Snickerdoodles from spreading too much?

Ensure your dough balls are properly chilled before baking and avoid overmixing the dough.

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the salt content in the recipe.

Why are my Snickerdoodles flat?

Overmixing the dough or baking at too low a temperature can cause cookies to spread excessively.

Can I use a stand mixer instead of a hand mixer?

Absolutely, a stand mixer is ideal for this recipe.

How can I make my cookies more chewy?

Underbake slightly and allow cookies to set on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Is cream of tartar essential?

Yes, it contributes to the signature tangy flavor and chewy texture of Snickerdoodles.

Can I add nuts to the dough?

Certainly, chopped pecans or walnuts can be folded into the dough for added texture.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be set, and the centers may appear slightly underbaked.

Can I freeze baked Snickerdoodles?

Yes, store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How do I thaw frozen cookies?

Allow them to come to room temperature on the counter or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Conclusion

This Snickerdoodle recipe delivers the perfect balance of softness, chewiness, and cinnamon-sugar goodness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a cozy treat, these cookies are sure to delight. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of irresistible Snickerdoodles ready in no time.