Snickerdoodle cookies are a classic homemade treat known for their soft centers, slightly crisp edges, and signature cinnamon-sugar coating. With their warm flavor and chewy texture, they’re perfect for holidays, afternoon snacks, or cozy baking days.
Simple ingredients and easy preparation make these cookies a favorite for beginner and experienced bakers alike.
👉 Prep time: 10 minutes
👉 Cook time: 10–12 minutes
👉 Difficulty: Easy
👉 Servings: 18–24 cookies
Why You’ll Love These Snickerdoodle Cookies
• Soft and chewy centers
• Sweet cinnamon-sugar coating
• Easy pantry ingredients
• Perfect for holidays or everyday baking
• Classic nostalgic flavor
These cookies deliver the perfect balance of sweetness and warm cinnamon spice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients List
For the Cookies
• 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
👉 Exact measurements are in the recipe card below.
Ingredient Tips
• Cream of tartar gives snickerdoodles their signature tangy flavor
• Use softened butter for a smoother dough
• Chill dough if cookies spread too much
How to Make Snickerdoodle Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Dough
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
Step 6: Make Cinnamon Sugar
Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
Step 7: Roll and Coat
Roll dough into small balls and coat each one in cinnamon sugar.
Step 8: Bake
Place cookies on the baking sheet and bake 10–12 minutes until edges are set.
Let cool before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Snickerdoodle cookies are delicious with:
• A glass of milk
• Hot coffee or tea
• Vanilla ice cream sandwiches
• Holiday dessert platters
They’re especially popular during Christmas baking season.
Storage Tips
• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days
• Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months
• Freeze cookie dough balls for quick baking later
Variations You Can Try
• Add nutmeg or pumpkin spice for extra warmth
• Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate
• Make snickerdoodle cookie bars
• Add white chocolate chips
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do snickerdoodles use cream of tartar?
It gives the cookies their signature tangy flavor and chewy texture.
Why did my cookies flatten too much?
The butter may have been too warm or the dough may need chilling.
Can I make them without cream of tartar?
Yes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Print
Snickerdoodle Cookies (Soft, Cinnamon-Sugar Classic)
Description
Snickerdoodle cookies are a classic homemade treat known for their soft centers, slightly crisp edges, and signature cinnamon-sugar coating. With their warm flavor and chewy texture, they’re perfect for holidays, afternoon snacks, or cozy baking days.
Ingredients
• 2¾ cups flour
• 1 cup butter
• 1½ cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 tsp cream of tartar
• Cinnamon sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix dry ingredients.
- Cream butter and sugar.
- Add eggs and vanilla.
- Combine with dry ingredients.
- Roll dough in cinnamon sugar.
- Bake 10–12 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Snickerdoodle cookies are a timeless baking favorite with their soft texture and sweet cinnamon coating. Easy to make and loved by all ages, they’re the perfect cookie for holidays, gatherings, or everyday treats.
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