Snickerdoodles
There’s something truly magical about Snickerdoodles. Growing up, I remember the sweet aroma wafting through my childhood home as my mom whipped up a fresh batch. These cookies, with their soft, chewy centers and delightful cinnamon-sugar coating, were a staple during family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. I would eagerly wait by the oven, watching them rise and crackle until they were just perfect. Every bite brought back warm memories of laughter, love, and the delightful crunch of the sugary exterior giving way to a soft, pillowy center. Today, whenever I bake these Snickerdoodles, I am reminded of those cherished times, and it’s a joy to recreate them for my family and friends. Baking isn’t just about the ingredients; it’s about the stories we share and the moments we create.
Recipe Snapshot
18 mins
10 mins
8 mins
Medium
120 kcal
1 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
6 g
Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Oven
The Appeal of This Snickerdoodles
A Timeless Classic
There’s a reason why Snickerdoodles are such a beloved cookie; they strike the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a delightful crust that will leave you wanting more. Plus, their texture is just right—crispy on the outside yet soft and chewy on the inside. It’s a classic recipe that never gets old!
Easy to Make
If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying cookie recipe, look no further. Snickerdoodles are incredibly easy to whip up, even for novice bakers. With just a handful of common ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that impresses everyone. It doesn’t take long to prepare, making them perfect for spontaneous baking sessions.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a cozy evening at home, Snickerdoodles fit right in. They’re versatile enough to serve at any event, and everyone loves them! The delightful cinnamon flavor adds a comforting touch that can brighten even the dullest of days.
Great for Sharing
These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Bake a batch and take them to your next gathering or send them as a thoughtful gift. With their charming appearance and irresistible taste, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. Plus, they store well, so you can enjoy them for days!
A Cookie for All Ages
Kids and adults alike adore Snickerdoodles. They’re a great way to get children involved in the kitchen. Mixing, rolling, and baking become a fun family activity, and the anticipation of the cookies cooling is part of the excitement. Watching their little faces light up when they take their first bite is truly priceless!
Ingredients for Snickerdoodles
To create the perfect Snickerdoodles, it’s essential to have the right ingredients, each playing a key role in achieving that signature flavor and texture. The base of this recipe includes staples like granulated sugar, which contributes sweetness, and butter for richness. Additionally, ground cinnamon adds warmth and character, while all-purpose flour provides structure. Together, these ingredients create a deliciously nostalgic cookie that everyone loves.
- 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and is used in the cinnamon-sugar coating.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – The star of the show, providing that classic flavor and aroma.
- ¼ cup (2oz) salted butter – Softened to create a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- ¼ cup (48g) shortening – Helps achieve the perfect chewy texture.
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar – The main sweetness source for the cookie dough.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour – Provides the structure needed for the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar – Adds chewiness and helps the cookies rise.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies spread and rise.
- â…› teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Making Snickerdoodles
Creating Snickerdoodles is a fun and rewarding experience. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated cookies that will fill your home with an irresistible aroma. Let’s dive into the process!
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This keeps the cookies from sticking and ensures they bake evenly. The high temperature helps the cookies puff up nicely, so don’t skip this step!
In a small bowl, stir together 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. This simple mixture is what will give your cookies that famous cinnamon sugar crust. Set it aside for later.
In a large bowl, cream together ¼ cup of salted butter, ¼ cup of shortening, and ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Use a handheld electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, which helps your cookies rise.
Add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until well-combined. The egg adds moisture, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite a little more special.
Now it’s time to add the dry ingredients: 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies!
Scoop and roll the dough into 1 ¼-inch balls. This is where you can really get your hands messy! Once rolled, coat each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture you prepared earlier. This will create that irresistible crust.
Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave space between each one to allow for spreading. Bake each sheet in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the tops are cracked and just set. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking; you want them soft and chewy!
Once baked, cool the cookies for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack. This resting time allows them to firm up slightly, ensuring they don’t fall apart when you move them.
Serve the cookies warm or at room temperature and enjoy every delicious bite of your Snickerdoodles. They’re perfect on their own or paired with a glass of milk!
Things Worth Knowing
- Properly measuring your flour is crucial—using the Spoon and Sweep Method ensures accurate amounts for the best texture.
- Letting your butter soften at room temperature helps achieve a creamy mixture when beating.
- For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar coating.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to two months, making them perfect for batch baking.
Expert Tips about Snickerdoodles
Baking Snickerdoodles is a delightful experience, and with these expert tips, you’ll elevate your cookie game! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, these nuggets of wisdom will help you get the best results.
- Storage: Keep your Snickerdoodles fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for 4 to 5 days. This helps maintain their soft texture.
- Freezing: You can freeze unbaked dough balls! Roll them in cinnamon sugar, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for easy future baking.
- Serving: Pair your cookies with ice cream for a delightful dessert sandwich! It’s a fun twist that everyone will love.
- Variations: Experiment with different spices like pumpkin pie spice for fun seasonal flavors! This can add a unique twist.
- Texture Tip: For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them. They’ll firm up as they cool, giving you that perfect soft center.
- Batch Baking: If you’re making a big batch, consider using multiple baking sheets, rotating them halfway through for even baking.
Accompaniments for Snickerdoodles
When it comes to serving Snickerdoodles, the options are as delightful as the cookies themselves!
- Milk: A classic pairing! A glass of cold milk complements the sweetness and cinnamon perfectly.
- Iced Coffee: Serving Snickerdoodles with iced coffee creates a lovely contrast, perfect for afternoon tea.
- Ice Cream: Try sandwiching a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a delicious treat!
- Seasonal Events: These cookies are fantastic for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or simply as an afternoon snack.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also freeze them for up to two months and enjoy later!
- Variations: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture!
FAQ
Conclusion
The beauty of Snickerdoodles lies in their delightful simplicity and comforting flavors. These cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also evoke fond memories of home and warmth. I encourage you to try making them, whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy evening at home. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just create some new cherished memories along the way.
Snickerdoodles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
- In a small bowl, stir together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, cream together salted butter, shortening, and granulated sugar.
- Add egg and vanilla extract and beat until well-combined.
- Add all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.
- Scoop and roll dough into 1 ¼-inch balls. Roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture and place on the baking sheets.
- Bake sheets one at a time for 8 to 10 minutes, until cookie tops are cracked and just set.
- Cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Cookies will stay fresh: in an airtight container at room temperature for 4 to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- If using unsalted butter: double the salt to 1/4 teaspoon.
- The shortening: in this recipe can be replaced with the same amount of butter (for 1/2 cup of butter total).
- Correct flour measurement: is very important in this recipe. For best results, measure by weight or the Spoon and Sweep Method (stir the flour in your container to fluff it up and then spoon it into your measuring cup, sweep excess off with the flat of a knife).
- To Freeze Dough: After rolling cookie dough balls in cinnamon sugar, place them on a plate or small baking sheet that will fit in your freezer and freeze until solid. After dough is frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To Reheat Frozen Cookie Dough: Preheat oven to 400°F and place frozen cookie dough on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mat. Bake for 8 to 11 minutes.
