Snickerdoodle Cookies

Snickerdoodle Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone loves! This easy recipe will guide you to create soft and chewy cookies, generously coated in cinnamon sugar. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just because, these cookies always impress with their warm, spicy flavor and tender texture. Get ready to bake a batch that will have your friends and family coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Snickerdoodle Cookies recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes!
• Deliciously Flavored: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates an irresistible topping.
• Chewy Texture: Following the tips ensures your cookies come out perfectly soft and chewy.
• Freezable Dough: Make ahead by freezing shaped dough balls for later baking convenience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies fit every event.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Snickerdoodle Cookies, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl: Makes it easier to cream butter and sugars smoothly without lumps.
• Cookie scoop or spoon: Helps shape uniform cookie dough balls for even baking.

Ingredients

Snickerdoodle Cookies require simple ingredients that you likely already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup salted butter (2 sticks, softened)
• 1 and 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 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 the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 and 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

How to Make Snickerdoodle Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare several baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl or stand mixer:
1. Beat 1 cup salted butter until smooth, about two minutes. Scrape sides as needed.
2. Add 1 and 1/3 cup granulated sugar and 1/3 cup brown sugar. Beat this mixture for two minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Incorporate 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Spoon 3 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour into a measuring cup without packing it down.
2. Stir in 1 teaspoon baking soda, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 and 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar.
3. Gradually mix this dry blend into the wet ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form dough balls about 1 and 1/2 to 2 inches across.

Step 5: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, combine:
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 and 1/2 tablespoons cinnamon

Roll each cookie dough ball in this mixture until fully coated.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Place rolled dough on prepared baking sheets with about two inches between them:
1. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 9–11 minutes.
2. Look for edges that are set while centers remain shiny; this ensures a soft texture.

Step 7: Shape After Baking

Immediately after removing from the oven:
– Use a spoon to gently push the edges toward the center to create a round shape.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let cookies rest on pans for at least three to five minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 9: Final Coating in Cinnamon Sugar

While still warm but not falling apart:
– Dip both sides of each cookie back into the cinnamon-sugar mix for an extra sweet touch!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Snickerdoodle Cookies! They are perfect with milk or coffee, so share them with friends or keep them all to yourself!

How to Serve Snickerdoodle Cookies

Snickerdoodle cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying them at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, the creamy texture of milk complements the soft and chewy consistency of Snickerdoodle cookies perfectly.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve warm Snickerdoodles alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delicious dessert sundae that melts in your mouth.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Create an inviting dessert platter by arranging Snickerdoodles with other cookies, brownies, and fruits for a colorful selection at parties.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on top of the cookies for an indulgent twist that enhances their sweetness.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair your Snickerdoodles with fresh fruit such as apple slices or berries to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing touch.

In Gift Boxes

• Pack some freshly baked Snickerdoodles into decorative boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family, perfect for any occasion.

How to Perfect Snickerdoodle Cookies

Achieving the perfect Snickerdoodle cookies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure they come out soft, chewy, and flavorful every time.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends better with sugars, leading to fluffier cookies.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies due to gluten development.

• Spoon Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid packing it down. This prevents dry dough.

• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies. They should be set at the edges but still slightly shiny in the center when done.

• Shape While Warm: Gently reshape the cookies right after baking for that perfect round appearance and chewy center.

Best Side Dishes for Snickerdoodle Cookies

Snickerdoodle cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that balance their sweetness. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Chilled Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can brighten up your dessert table while providing a light contrast.

2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda, which offer a creamy texture that pairs well with sweet cookies.

3. Nut Mix: A combination of roasted nuts adds crunch and savory flavor, making it an excellent snack alongside your cookies.

4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats add elegance and extra sweetness to your dessert spread.

5. Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: Warm drinks like this bring out the cinnamon flavor in Snickerdoodles while providing comfort on chilly days.

6. Oreo Milkshake: This rich shake combines classic flavors with the spiced notes of snickerdoodles for an indulgent treat.

7. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: The tropical notes and moistness contrast nicely with the drier cookie texture.

8. Apple Pie: Another classic dessert option that harmonizes beautifully with snickerdoodles, especially when served warm!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Snickerdoodle Cookies can be simple, but there are key mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too much can make your cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Skipping the cinnamon-sugar coating: The signature flavor of Snickerdoodle Cookies comes from the cinnamon-sugar. Don’t forget to roll the dough balls in this mixture before baking!
• Using packed flour: Dipping your measuring cup into the flour can pack it down, resulting in dry cookies. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Not checking for doneness: It’s easy to overbake cookies, which leads to dryness. Check them at the lower end of baking time for a soft center.
• Ignoring cooling time: Letting cookies cool on the pan for a few minutes helps them set properly. Don’t rush this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Snickerdoodle Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Place shaped cookie dough balls in a ziplock bag between layers of parchment paper.
• Frozen dough can be kept for up to 3 months.

Reheating Snickerdoodle Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet on low heat for a minute or two to refresh their texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Can I use different types of sugar in Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Yes! You can experiment with different sugars, but using a combination of granulated and brown sugar gives the best results.

What makes Snickerdoodle Cookies chewy?

The addition of cream of tartar contributes to their soft, chewy texture by reacting with baking soda during baking.

How do I store leftover Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Absolutely! Shape and roll them in cinnamon-sugar, then freeze for easy baking later.

What is the best way to ensure my cookies don’t spread too much?

Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help prevent excessive spreading.

Final Thoughts

These Snickerdoodle Cookies are not only deliciously soft and chewy but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize them with nuts or different spices if you’d like. Try this recipe today; you won’t be disappointed!