Name: Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2¾ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, just softened; 1½ cups sugar; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ⅓ cup sugar; 2 tablespoons cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 27 reviews

If you’ve been craving a classic cookie that’s both delightfully soft and bursting with warm cinnamon flavor, you’re about to find your new favorite. This Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet sugar and fragrant cinnamon, wrapped in a tender, buttery cookie. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or just a cozy afternoon treat, this recipe is a joyful way to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with scrumptious bites that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A stack of five round cookies sits in the center of a white plate with a thin gold rim, resting on a red textured cloth on a white marbled surface. The cookies are golden brown with a cracked pattern on top and are dusted with cinnamon sugar. The top cookie has a bite taken out, showing a soft, light inside. To the right of the stack, three cinnamon sticks lean against the plate. In the background, a blurred glass of milk is visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is key to creating that signature Snickerdoodle charm. Each component brings something special—flour creates the perfect crumb, cream of tartar gives the cookies their tangy note and delightful chew, while cinnamon adds that iconic spicy sweetness with a comforting aroma.

2¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and soft texture every cookie needs.
2 teaspoons cream of tartar: The secret ingredient that gives Snickerdoodles their tender bite and slight tang.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for fluffiness without spreading too thin.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds rich, creamy goodness that makes every bite melt in your mouth.
1½ cups sugar: Sweetens the dough while creating a tender crumb.
2 eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture for a soft texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cookie’s flavor.
⅓ cup sugar (for rolling): Gives the classic sugary crust before baking.
2 tablespoons cinnamon (for rolling): Infuses each cookie with that beloved, cinnamony snap at every bite.

How to Make Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and get just that right golden color. While waiting, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients form the foundation of your Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe, giving the dough the perfect balance of texture and a subtle tang that makes these cookies so memorable.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial—it incorporates air into the dough for that tender, soft crumb that melts beautifully in your mouth.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Once the butter and sugar are perfectly creamed, add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Blend well so that every drop of vanilla and egg is fully incorporated, ensuring rich flavor and moist texture throughout.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Be careful not to over-mix; just blend until everything is combined and forms a soft dough ready to be scooped.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, mix together the ⅓ cup sugar and 2 tablespoons cinnamon. This cinnamon sugar is the crown jewel of the Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe, giving that sweet, crackly exterior with a burst of warm spice.

Step 7: Shape and Roll

Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out cookie dough balls (about 1 to 1½ tablespoons each). Roll each ball generously in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. This step creates the signature crinkly, sweet coating you’ll love.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the coated cookie dough balls onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. This is the sweet spot for that perfect chewy texture.

Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Trust me, the aroma alone is enough to make your kitchen feel like pure bliss.

How to Serve Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe

A stack of five round cinnamon sugar cookies with a crackled top is placed in the center of a white plate with a thin gold rim; the top cookie has a bite taken out of it showing its soft, light inside. To the right side on the plate, there are three cinnamon sticks lying parallel to each other. The plate sits on a red textured cloth, all set against a white marbled surface, with a blurred glass of milk and another cookie in the soft background. The cookies are golden with a speckled cinnamon sugar coating. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar or a tiny dusting of powdered sugar on top. Adding a few cinnamon sticks or vanilla bean pods nearby can also elevate the presentation and enhance that cozy, rustic vibe.

Side Dishes

Pair these Snickerdoodle cookies with a warm cup of chai tea, rich hot chocolate, or a simple glass of cold milk for a classic combination. Their sweet and spiced flavor beautifully complements creamy or spicy beverages, making every bite memorable.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies with layers of whipped cream and fresh berries for a quick dessert parfait. You can also sandwich these cinnamon-coated beauties with a layer of cream cheese frosting or dulce de leche for an indulgent twist that guests will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Snickerdoodle Cookies keep beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to keep them soft and fresh, ready to satisfy cookie cravings any time.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead for a special event or just to always have treats on hand, freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Simply roll them in cinnamon sugar, place on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to your baking time.

Reheating

To bring those leftover Snickerdoodle Cookies back to life, warm them for 10–15 seconds in the microwave or in a low oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes. This revives the soft texture and toasty cinnamon aroma, making them taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

What makes Snickerdoodles different from regular sugar cookies?

Snickerdoodles are unique because of the cream of tartar in the dough, which gives them a subtle tang and chewy texture. Plus, the outer coating of cinnamon sugar creates a distinct crunch and spicy sweetness that sugar cookies don’t have.

Can I substitute cream of tartar if I don’t have any?

You can try substituting with baking powder, which contains cream of tartar along with baking soda. However, it may change the texture slightly, making the cookies less tangy and chewy.

How do I get soft Snickerdoodle Cookies instead of crispy ones?

Make sure you don’t overbake! Removing the cookies while the centers are still a bit soft ensures they stay chewy as they cool. Using room temperature butter and not over-mixing your dough can also help keep them tender.

Can I use salted butter in this Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting. Unsalted butter is preferred to maintain full control over the saltiness of the cookies.

What are some fun variations to try with this recipe?

Try adding nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy twist, or mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. Some also enjoy a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a sprinkle of cardamom in the cinnamon sugar for a unique flavor combo.

Final Thoughts

This Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe is one of my all-time favorites to bake and share, bringing cozy vibes and sweet nostalgia in every bite. The magic of cinnamon sugar paired with that tender dough creates a simple yet unforgettable treat that’s perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and make these delicious Snickerdoodles a beloved staple in your kitchen too!