Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe: Soft, Chewy, and Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Treats

I still remember the first time I bit into a perfectly soft snickerdoodle cookie—warm, chewy, and bursting with cinnamon sugar magic. It was like a little slice of comfort wrapped in a cookie, instantly becoming my new obsession. Baking snickerdoodles soon became a joyous ritual, one that I’m thrilled to share with you here at kai Recipes.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy dessert, a student craving a quick sweet fix, or a baking enthusiast wanting to nail the perfect texture, this classic American cookie is for you. Our homemade snickerdoodle cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with that unmistakable cinnamon sugar coating, making every bite feel like a cozy hug.

At kai Recipes, my goal is to inspire you to explore new flavors and cook with joy—because great food is about making memories, not stress. So let’s dive into this easy snickerdoodle cookie recipe that’s become a timeless favorite in kitchens everywhere.

What Are Snickerdoodle Cookies?

Snickerdoodles are classic cinnamon sugar cookies with a twist—their texture and flavor make them uniquely irresistible. Unlike regular sugar cookies, snickerdoodles have a soft and chewy center with just a slight crisp around the edges. Thanks to a secret ingredient called cream of tartar, these cookies have a gentle tang that balances their sweet cinnamon sugar coating perfectly.

While many confuse them with plain cinnamon sugar cookies, snickerdoodles boast a distinctive snappy bite and a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth. They’re the kind of cookie that feels just right for any season, whether it’s a snowy winter afternoon or a sunny summer gathering.

If you love cinnamon roll cookies or crave a soft, chewy cookie that melts in your mouth, snickerdoodles should be your next baking adventure.

The Origin & Fun Facts About Snickerdoodles

The name “snickerdoodle” sounds like something out of a whimsical story, and its origin is just as charmingly unclear. Some say it comes from the German word “Schneckennudel,” meaning cinnamon snail pastry, while others think it might be a nonsense word brought over by Dutch immigrants.

Regardless of where the name truly comes from, snickerdoodles have been a beloved staple in American baking since at least the 19th century, especially in New England. Their cozy flavor and soft texture have made them a nostalgic favorite across generations. Fun fact: Despite their mysterious name, these cookies deliver a straightforward, comforting cinnamon sugar punch that’s anything but confusing!

Ingredients for the Best Snickerdoodle Cookies

To make the best snickerdoodle cookies, you need quality ingredients and the right balance of flavors:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 ¾ cups (340g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar (essential for that authentic snickerdoodle tang and texture)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for the dough and the coating)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Cream of tartar is the star here—it gives snickerdoodles their classic tang and helps create that perfect chewy texture. If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with 2 teaspoons baking powder, but be warned: the flavor and texture won’t be quite the same.

For a little extra fun, you can add mix-ins like mini chocolate chips or nuts, but classic snickerdoodles shine best in their cinnamon sugar simplicity.

How to Make Snickerdoodle Cookies: Step-by-Step

Ready to bake? Here’s how to create soft, chewy snickerdoodles that will impress every time:

1. Prep Your Oven and Pans: Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Make the Dough:
   • Beat cold butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy.
   • Add eggs and vanilla, mixing gently.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
   • Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
3. Form the Cookies:
   • Roll dough into 1.5 to 2-inch balls (about the size of a golf ball).
   • Roll each ball in cinnamon sugar coating, making sure they’re well covered.
4. Bake:
   • Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
   • Bake for 9-11 minutes—edges should be set but centers still look shiny. This ensures softness.

1. If you want thicker snickerdoodles, try the “spoon trick”: right after removing cookies from oven, press the edges inward slightly with the back of a spoon to keep them thick and chewy.
2. Cool and Enjoy: Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

No chilling required for this easy snickerdoodle cookie recipe—just mix, roll, bake, and enjoy. Perfect for beginners and busy bakers alike!

Tips to Perfect Your Snickerdoodles & Fun Variations

Here are some insider baking tips to take your snickerdoodles to the next level:

• Double Dip the Cinnamon Sugar: After baking, dip warm cookies again in cinnamon sugar for extra crunch and flavor.
• Use the Right Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but for gluten-free options, try a suitable blend for soft texture.
• Keep Cookies Soft: Store in airtight containers and avoid overbaking.

Feeling adventurous? Try these variations:

• Add mini chocolate chips for a delightful twist (try our Easy Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe
• Bake a batch of our Delicious Snickerdoodle Banana Bread recipe for a cinnamon-flavored treat with a twist
• Combine the warmth of cinnamon with fruit in an Apple Coffee Cake with cinnamon streusel
• Spice things up with Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookies with a twist on snickerdoodles

Storage & Freezing Tips

To enjoy your snickerdoodle cookies at their best:

• Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-4 days—best enjoyed fresh on day one.
• Freeze Dough: Roll dough balls in cinnamon sugar, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.
• Freeze Baked Cookies: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature.

Snickerdoodle Cookies FAQs

Conclusion

Now that you’ve got the recipe for these soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies, it’s time to bake your own batch of cozy, cinnamon-sugar bliss! Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and share your baking stories in the comments.

For more delightful cookie recipes and dessert ideas, follow kai Recipes on social media:

• Follow KaiRecipe on Facebook for more delicious cookie recipes
• Explore KaiRecipe’s full collection of inspiring recipes on Pinterest
• Discover sweet treat ideas and dessert inspiration on KaiRecipe’s Pinterest board
• Get creative with easy dessert recipes on KaiRecipe’s Pinterest Sweet Treats board

Happy baking, and may your kitchen always smell like warm cinnamon sugar!

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