The BEST Snickerdoodle Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, freshly baked cookie. The aroma wafting through your kitchen, the soft, chewy texture, and that delightful cinnamon-sugar coating make snickerdoodles an all-time favorite. This classic cookie is not just a treat; it’s a nostalgic bite that brings back childhood memories of baking with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share with you the BEST snickerdoodle recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a keeper. The combination of creamy butter and vegetable shortening creates a cookie that’s perfectly soft in the center with just the right amount of chewiness. The cream of tartar gives it that signature tangy flavor, while the cinnamon-sugar coating takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Gather These Ingredients

Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups (312.5g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 cup (113.5g) unsalted butter, softened
• 0.5 cup (102.5g) vegetable shortening
• 1 cup (300g) sugar
• 2 eggs
• 0.25 cup (50g) granulated sugar (for rolling)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Prep & Cook Tools

Gathering your tools ahead of time will make the baking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer – to cream the butter and sugar easily.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurements.
• Baking sheet – to bake your cookies on.
• Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon – for evenly sized cookies.

The BEST Snickerdoodle Recipe, Made Easy

Ready to start baking? Follow these simple steps for the BEST snickerdoodle recipe you’ll ever try!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside as you move on to the next step.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Shortening

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and vegetable shortening. Using your electric mixer, beat them together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Eggs

Add the sugar to the butter mixture and beat until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This will be your delightful coating for the cookies.

Step 7: Scoop and Roll

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Then, roll the balls in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help them set up perfectly. Once cooled, enjoy your homemade snickerdoodles with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

Tailor It to Your Diet

This snickerdoodle recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to cater to various dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• For a dairy-free option, substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative.
• For a gluten-free version, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• To reduce sugar, try using a sugar substitute that measures like sugar.
• For vegan snickerdoodles, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg, let sit to thicken).

What Could Go Wrong

Even the most seasoned bakers can encounter a few hiccups. Here are common issues you might face:

• Cookies Spread Too Much: This could be due to the butter being too warm or not enough flour in the dough. Make sure to use softened butter, not melted.
• Cookies Are Too Dry: This can happen if you overbake them. Keep an eye on the baking time and remove them when the edges are golden.
• Flavor Is Off: Ensure that your baking soda and cream of tartar are fresh, as expired ingredients can alter the taste.
• Texture Is Not Chewy: Avoid overmixing the dough once the flour is added. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Proper storage will keep your snickerdoodles fresh and delicious. Here are some tips:

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• If you want to keep them longer, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• To freeze unbaked dough, scoop and roll into balls, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a container. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Your Top Questions

Can I use different spices instead of cinnamon?

Absolutely! While cinnamon is the classic choice, you can experiment with other spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on the traditional flavor.

Why do snickerdoodles require cream of tartar?

Cream of tartar is essential for giving snickerdoodles their signature tangy flavor and helps activate the baking soda, which contributes to the cookie’s soft texture.

How can I make my snickerdoodles thicker?

To make thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps reduce spreading and results in a thicker cookie.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe! Just make sure you have enough baking sheets and space in your oven to accommodate the extra cookies.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve mastered the BEST snickerdoodle recipe, why not try your hand at these delightful treats?

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Peanut Butter Blossoms
• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
• Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles

Bring It Home

Baking is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating memories and sharing love through food. This BEST snickerdoodle recipe is perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in the soft, cinnamon-sugar goodness of homemade snickerdoodles. Happy baking!