Soft Chewy Snickerdoodles Easy Cookie Recipe

© Original Recipe By Megan May ©

🍪✨ Soft Chewy Snickerdoodles: The Ultimate Cinnamon Sugar Cookies Recipe

1. Introduction

Nothing beats the comforting aroma and irresistible flavor of freshly baked snickerdoodles. These classic cinnamon sugar cookies boast a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a delightful chewiness that keeps everyone coming back for more. If you’ve ever wanted to master the perfect chewy cookies with that signature cinnamon-sugar coating, this easy cookie recipe is your new go-to. Fluffy, tender, and bursting with warm spice, these snickerdoodles are a must-have treat for dessert tables or cozy afternoons with tea.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Soft & Chewy Texture: Achieves the ideal tender bite with a slight chewiness that keeps you reaching for more.
• Customizable Flavors: Easy to adjust cinnamon intensity or add a hint of vanilla for personalized touches.
• Perfect for Sharing: Makes about two dozen cookies, ideal for groups or family snacks.

3. Ingredient Notes

Achieving those signature cinnamon sugar cookies with perfect chewiness starts with quality ingredients. Use unsalted butter for a rich, tender crumb and control the salt level. The addition of baking soda and cream of tartar gives snickerdoodles their classic tangy lift and chewy texture. For the cinnamon sugar coating, opt for fresh ground cinnamon and high-quality granulated sugar to ensure a vibrant flavor and crunch.

While traditional recipes call for all-purpose flour, some bakers prefer Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur’s for consistency. For a deeper cinnamon flavor, sprinkle extra cinnamon into the sugar mixture. And for a touch of sophistication, try using organic or non-GMO sugar and spices.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

For perfect results, having the right tools makes baking a breeze. Check out this Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — it’s fantastic for baking cookies evenly with minimal effort. A sturdy stand mixer, like the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange, helps mix the dough thoroughly, ensuring a uniform texture. A silicone baking mat or parchment paper (not linked, but essential) prevents sticking and facilitates cleanup, while a good cookie scoop ensures evenly-sized treats. These tools set the stage for a smooth and successful baking experience.

5. How to Make Soft Chewy Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this incorporates air and creates a tender crumb. Your kitchen will fill with a sweet, buttery aroma as you work.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. The dough will become glossy and smooth, an inviting consistency that’s easy to scoop.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make cookies tough. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 4: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, stir together granulated sugar and cinnamon until evenly blended. This aromatic mixture will be the coating that makes snickerdoodles so irresistible.

Step 5: Shape and Coat Cookies

Use a cookie scoop to portion dough balls, then roll each in the cinnamon sugar. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them well to allow for spreading.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes. They should be slightly puffed and set at the edges but still soft in the center. A tempting aroma will invite you to taste right away!

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. The centers remain delightfully chewy, with crisp edges that crackle gently with each bite.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Sugar Coating: Press gently on the coated cookies before baking for a more pronounced cinnamon flavor and better crunch.
• Chewiness: For extra chewiness, replace part of the granulated sugar with brown sugar when mixing the dough.
• Uniform Cookies: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to ensure even size, which promotes uniform baking.
• Storage: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to preserve their soft texture.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize your snickerdoodles, consider these options:

• Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use flaxseed eggs or applesauce in place of eggs.
• Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these cinnamon sugar cookies without gluten.
• Added Flavors: Mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a dash of nutmeg for extra depth.

8. Storage & Reheating

Stored properly, these snickerdoodles stay soft and chewy for days. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, or freeze for longer storage. To reheat, gently warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes, or microwave for about 10 seconds for immediate freshness.

9. FAQ

Can I make snickerdoodles ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dough, roll in cinnamon sugar, and freeze the cookies before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What makes a snickerdoodle different from other cookies?

The signature tangy flavor and crackly cinnamon sugar coating are what set snickerdoodles apart. Cream of tartar is the key ingredient that provides this unique flavor and chewy texture.

How do I ensure my cookies stay soft and chewy?

Avoid overbaking; remove cookies when the edges are just set. Store them in airtight containers, and add a slice of bread for extra moisture if needed. They are best enjoyed within a week of baking.

10. Conclusion

These soft, chewy snickerdoodles are a cinnamon lover’s dream—tender, flavorful, and irresistibly aromatic. With simple ingredients and expert tips, you can create bakery-quality treats right in your kitchen. Whether for a special occasion or everyday indulgence, these cookies promise smiles in every bite. Happy baking!

Print