The Best Classic Snickerdoodle Cookie Recipe
Snickerdoodle cookies are a beloved classic, delighting cookie enthusiasts with their soft and chewy texture, topped with a tantalizing cinnamon-sugar coating. If you're looking to bake the perfect batch of snickerdoodles, this detailed recipe will guide you through the process from start to finish.
Ingredients for the Best Snickerdoodle Cookies
To create the ultimate snickerdoodle cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for rolling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and do not stick.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that soft, chewy texture characteristic of a perfect snickerdoodle.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. If you like, you can add a splash of vanilla extract at this stage for extra flavor.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. This combination of ingredients creates that signature tangy flavor in snickerdoodles while also providing the right level of leavening.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
6. Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar with the 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. This mixture will give your cookies their iconic outer layer.
7. Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form small balls of dough, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated, then place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers appear slightly underbaked. This slight underbaking will ensure your cookies retain their chewy texture.
9. Cool and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy these delightful treats warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee!
Tips for the Perfect Snickerdoodles
To ensure your snickerdoodles are the best they can be, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda and cream of tartar are fresh to get the best rise out of your cookies.
- Don’t Overbake: Many bakers make the mistake of baking cookies too long. The residual heat will continue to cook the cookies after you take them out of the oven.
- Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon or add a touch of nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a unique twist.
With this recipe in hand, you’re ready to enjoy one of the most cherished cookie varieties. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these snickerdoodle cookies are sure to impress!