Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Snickerdoodle cookies are a timeless favorite, cherished for their soft, chewy texture and delightful cinnamon-sugar coating. This recipe, shared by Aimee Shugarman on Shugary Sweets, offers a straightforward approach to baking these beloved cookies. With no chilling required and ingredients you likely already have on hand, you can enjoy warm, homemade snickerdoodles in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

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

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon kosher salt

For the topping:

½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and eggs until the mixture is light and fluffy.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and kosher salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping.
Scoop about 1½-inch portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 4 dozen cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles: Add ¼ cup of pumpkin purée and 1½ teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice to the dough for a seasonal twist.
Brown Butter Snickerdoodles: Brown the butter before incorporating it into the dough to add a nutty, caramel flavor.
Snickerdoodle Bars: Press the dough into a 13×9-inch baking dish and bake for 22–26 minutes to create bars instead of individual cookies.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Freezing Dough: Scoop dough into balls, place on a baking sheet, and freeze for 30 minutes. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Freezing Baked Cookies: Place cooled cookies in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

What is the purpose of cream of tartar in snickerdoodles?

Cream of tartar reacts with the baking soda to create a chewy texture and gives snickerdoodles their signature tangy flavor.

Can I use baking powder instead of cream of tartar?

Yes, you can substitute 2 teaspoons of baking powder for the cream of tartar and baking soda combination.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, this recipe does not require chilling the dough, making it a quick and convenient option.

How can I make my snickerdoodles thicker?

Slightly underbaking the cookies can help them stay thicker and chewier.

Can I add nuts to the dough?

Yes, you can fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and avoid overmixing the dough.

Can I use salted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the recipe.

How can I make my cookies more cinnamon-flavored?

Increase the amount of cinnamon in the topping mixture or add a teaspoon to the dough.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used as a substitute.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers should be set but still soft.

Conclusion

This snickerdoodle cookie recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat with minimal effort. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to satisfy. With their perfect balance of sweetness and spice, they’re a timeless favorite that never goes out of style.