Name: Soft Chewy Snickerdoodles Easy Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons cinnamon

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🍪 Soft Chewy Snickerdoodles: The Ultimate Cinnamon Sugar Cookie Recipe

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a cookie that hits all the right notes—sweet, cinnamon-y, and irresistibly soft—then Snickerdoodles are your best bet. These chewy cookies boast a delightful cinnamon sugar coating that offers a satisfying crunch with each bite before melting into a tender, flavorful center. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a cozy treat, this easy cookie recipe guarantees perfect results every time. Let’s explore how to craft the ultimate Snickerdoodles that are soft, chewy, and loaded with cinnamon goodness.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute cravings.

Soft & Chewy Texture: Achieves that desirable chewy consistency, unlike overly crispy varieties.
All-Natural Flavors: Uses simple ingredients to highlight the warm aroma of cinnamon.
Versatile: Perfect for snacking, gifting, or sharing at gatherings.

3. Ingredient Notes

For a truly authentic soft cookie, quality ingredients are key. Use fresh ground cinnamon for the aromatic cinnamon sugar coating. As for the flour, opting for unbleached all-purpose is best—it provides the perfect structure without overpowering the tender crumb. Ingredients like butter should be unsalted to control the saltiness, and use heavy-duty sugar for that just-right sweetness. High-quality vanilla extract enhances the warmth of the spices, making every bite irresistible. If you want a richer flavor, consider using European-style butter which is creamier and more flavorful.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make the perfect snickerdoodles, having the right tools is essential. I recommend the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange. It effortlessly combines butter and sugar to create a uniform dough, saving you time and effort. Plus, the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer is fantastic if you want to bake cookies quickly using less energy or achieve a crispy outer layer if desired. Don’t forget essential tools like a nonstick baking sheet and a piping or cookie scoop for uniform size and shape.

5. How to Make Soft Chewy Snickerdoodles

Mixing the Dough

Start by creaming together 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 1/2 cups of sugar in your stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes—look for a pale, airy texture. Add in 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of high-quality vanilla extract. This aromatic base forms the foundation of your chewy cookies.

Adding the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture on low speed, just until combined. The dough will be soft but manageable. Cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes—this step ensures the cookies don’t spread too much and develop that perfect chewy texture.

Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the dough chills, combine 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Once chilled, scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough (using your cookie scoop for uniformity), then roll each into a ball and coat thoroughly in the cinnamon sugar mixture. The fragrant coating is what makes snickerdoodles iconic.

Baking to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Space the coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and slightly underdone—this is key for that chewy interior. The cookies will puff up and then slightly deflate once out of the oven, developing their chewy texture.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Chill the dough: Refrigerating for at least 30 minutes prevents spreading and enhances chewiness.

Use fresh baking soda and cream of tartar: Ensures authentic flavor and proper rise.
Don’t overbake: Remove cookies when they look slightly underdone—they’ll firm up as they cool.
Handle with care: Use a sturdy cookie scoop for uniform cookies that bake evenly.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’d like to customize your snickerdoodles, consider:

Gluten-free: Swap regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Vegan: Replace butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, and eggs with flax eggs.
Extra cinnamon: Increase cinnamon in the sugar coating for a more pronounced flavor.

Decorate: Add toppings like mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts before baking for added texture.

8. Storage & Reheating

Store leftover snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag—reheat briefly in a warm oven or microwave for a fresh-baked feel. To keep their soft texture, avoid refrigerating, which can dry out the cookies.

9. FAQ

Are snickerdoodles supposed to be chewy?

Yes, this soft cookie recipe is designed to produce chewy cookies, thanks to the balance of fat, sugar, and dough handling.

How do I prevent my snickerdoodles from spreading too much?

Chill the dough properly and avoid overbaking. Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform size, which also helps control spreading.

Can I make snickerdoodles gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap regular flour with a gluten-free baking blend, and you’ll get delicious, chewy cinnamon sugar cookies suitable for gluten sensitivities.

10. Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like biting into warm, soft, chewy Snickerdoodles coated in fragrant cinnamon sugar. This easy cookie recipe ensures everyone can enjoy these classic treats—perfect for sharing or simply indulging yourself. With just a few simple ingredients and tips, you’ll master the art of baking irresistible cinnamon cookies that keep coming back for more.