The BEST Snickerdoodle Recipe

Snickerdoodles are the ultimate soft and chewy cookies with a signature tangy flavor and a crisp cinnamon-sugar coating. This classic cookie is a favorite for its perfectly balanced texture—crispy on the edges, soft in the center, and bursting with warm cinnamon goodness. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, a bake sale, or just a sweet treat, this is the BEST snickerdoodle recipe you’ll ever try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and chewy texture – The perfect balance of crispy edges and a pillowy center.
• Classic cinnamon-sugar coating – Creates the signature snickerdoodle flavor.
• No chill time required – Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes.
• Simple pantry ingredients – Made with everyday baking staples.
• Perfectly tangy – Thanks to the secret ingredient: cream of tartar.

Ingredients

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

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Cream of tartar
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon
• Cinnamon-sugar mixture (for coating)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
6. In a small bowl, mix cinnamon and sugar for the coating.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
8. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring an even coating.
9. Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
10. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
11. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Extra chewy version – Use more brown sugar for a softer cookie.
• Crispier cookies – Bake for an extra 1-2 minutes.
• Stuffed snickerdoodles – Add caramel or Nutella in the center of each dough ball.
• Pumpkin spice twist – Swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired flavor.
• Gluten-free option – Use a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing baked cookies: Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
• Freezing dough: Freeze unbaked dough balls and bake straight from the freezer, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating: Microwave for 5-10 seconds to refresh their softness.

FAQs

Why do snickerdoodles need cream of tartar?

Cream of tartar gives them their signature tangy flavor and chewy texture.

Can I substitute baking powder for cream of tartar?

Yes, replace both the baking soda and cream of tartar with 2 teaspoons of baking powder.

Why are my snickerdoodles flat?

If your butter is too soft or melted, the cookies may spread too much. Try chilling the dough for 15 minutes before baking.

Can I make these cookies without a mixer?

Yes! You can mix everything by hand with a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon.

How do I keep snickerdoodles soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them from drying out.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and bake in batches.

What’s the best way to roll the dough in cinnamon sugar?

Roll each dough ball generously to fully coat them for the best flavor.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, mix in white or dark chocolate chips for a delicious twist.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

The edges should be set, but the centers should still look slightly soft—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is best for flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch.

Conclusion

These snickerdoodles are the perfect combination of soft, chewy, and cinnamon-spiced goodness. With a crisp exterior and a tender center, they are guaranteed to be a family favorite. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or save some for later, this recipe is a must-try for any cookie lover. Bake a batch today and enjoy the best snickerdoodles ever!

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