The Best Snickerdoodle Cookie Recipe

Introduction

Snickerdoodle cookies are a classic treat that combines a soft, buttery interior with a perfectly crisp edge, all coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend. This recipe delivers cookies with a delightful balance of flavors and textures that are sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Make the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
   • In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon.
6. Form the Cookies:
   • Roll the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls. Roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated.
   • Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and slightly golden, but the centers are still soft.
   • Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 9-11 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (including cooling)

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar coating for an extra layer of flavor.
• Vegan: Use a vegan butter substitute and flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, place them on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? Yes, but omit the added salt in the recipe if you use salted butter.
2. What is cream of tartar, and can I substitute it? Cream of tartar stabilizes the dough and helps with texture. You can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar, but the flavor might slightly differ.
3. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much? Make sure your dough is well-chilled before baking and avoid over-creaming the butter and sugar.
4. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar? Brown sugar will make the cookies chewier and add a slight molasses flavor. You can use it in place of granulated sugar for a different taste.
5. What should I do if my cookie dough is too soft? Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to firm it up before rolling and baking.
6. Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
7. How can I make the cookies extra soft? Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour and make sure not to overbake the cookies.
8. Can I add chocolate chips to the dough? Yes, you can fold in chocolate chips or chunks for a variation.
9. What if my cookies come out too crispy? Try reducing the baking time slightly or checking the oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
10. How can I make these cookies into bars? Press the dough into a greased baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until set. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Conclusion

The Best Snickerdoodle Cookie Recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors with a comforting, chewy texture. These cookies are easy to make and always a hit, whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them as a treat for yourself. With a touch of cinnamon and a hint of vanilla, they capture the essence of classic homemade goodness. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delicious cookies!

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