Name: Easy Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 19 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 3/4 cups flour; 2 teaspoons cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons sugar; 3 teaspoons cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 10 reviews

If you’re looking for a truly comforting and delightful treat, look no further than this Easy Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe. These soft, chewy cookies, rolled in a perfect mix of cinnamon and sugar, are a nostalgic favorite that never fails to bring smiles. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, the simplicity and warmth packed into every bite make these cookies an absolute winner to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eight different containers with baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center bottom is a metal bowl filled with white flour. Above it to the left are two brown bowls stacked vertically, the large one filled with white granulated sugar and the smaller one with finer white sugar. On the top right is a white plate holding two pale yellow sticks of butter. Below that and slightly to the left is a white plate with two brown eggs. Near the center is a very small glass bottle with dark amber liquid. To its right is a white speckled bowl containing white powder, pink salt, and another white ingredient. Just below the bottle is a small white bowl filled with brown powder, likely cinnamon. The items are neatly spaced on the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this Easy Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe. Each component has a magic role, creating that classic snickerdoodle flavor and soft texture you crave.

1 cup butter, softened: Provides rich flavor and a tender crumb.
1 1/2 cups sugar: Sweetens the dough and contributes to lightness.
2 large eggs: Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
2 3/4 cups flour: The structure of the cookie, giving it body and chewiness.
2 teaspoons cream of tartar: Adds the characteristic tang and helps create the chewy texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with cream of tartar to make cookies rise perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
3 tablespoons sugar (for rolling): Creates a sweet, crunchy coating that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie.
3 teaspoons cinnamon: The star spice giving these cookies their iconic warm flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and rounds out the sweetness.

How to Make Easy Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This sets the perfect baking environment so your cookies bake evenly. Don’t forget to chill a cookie sheet in the fridge for about 15 minutes — this simple trick helps control spreading, giving you those perfect cookie shapes.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, mix the softened butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth and fluffy. This step is key to building a creamy base that blends all flavors seamlessly, resulting in a soft texture you’ll adore with every bite.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these ahead ensures even distribution which is critical for that classic snickerdoodle rise and tang. Gradually fold these dry ingredients into the butter mixture to form your dough.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Pop your dough into the fridge. Chilling firms it up, making it super easy to scoop and roll later. Plus, it helps the flavors meld beautifully, so your cookies will have that just-right snickerdoodle charm.

Step 5: Prepare Your Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the dough chills, stir together the 3 tablespoons of sugar and 3 teaspoons of cinnamon in a small bowl. This cinnamon sugar coating is what gives snickerdoodles their signature sweet, spicy crust — a must-do that adds extra magic to each bite.

Step 6: Roll and Coat the Dough

Scoop out generous 1-inch portions of chilled dough and roll them gently in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Don’t be shy here — this sugary jacket creates the perfect sensational crunch and flavor contrast once baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your coated dough balls on the chilled cookie sheet, leaving space between each one so they can puff nicely. Bake for about 10 minutes until the cookies are just set and beginning to turn golden on the edges. Immediately transfer to a cooling rack — this helps them settle into that wonderfully soft yet slightly crisp texture everyone loves.

How to Serve Easy Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe

The image shows a black cooling rack placed on a white marbled surface with twelve round cookies evenly spaced on it. Each cookie is golden brown with a slightly rough texture and light cracks on the top. To the upper left, there is a glass bowl with a light brown powder mixture, and on the upper right, there is a white plate with some dough crumbs and a metal scoop holding light dough. A woman's hand holding the black handle of the scoop is partially visible at the edge of the plate. The scene has soft, natural lighting that highlights the warm tones of the cookies. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can sprinkle a tiny dusting of cinnamon sugar on top right after baking to freshen up their look and flavor. For extra indulgence, try a light drizzle of melted white chocolate — it adds a lovely creamy contrast to the spicy cinnamon kick.

Side Dishes

Serve these snickerdoodles alongside a cold glass of milk, hot cocoa, or a warm chai latte for a complete comfort snack experience. The creamy beverages perfectly balance the cinnamon sugar warmth of the cookies.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange your Easy Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe on a festive platter tied with a sprig of fresh rosemary or cinnamon sticks for a rustic holiday vibe. Or sandwich them with a layer of creamy vanilla buttercream or cinnamon frosting to create irresistible cookie sandwiches that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cookies in an airtight container on the countertop, where they stay soft for up to five days. A handy tip is to add a half slice of white bread to the container; it helps retain the cookies’ moisture so they don’t dry out too quickly.

Freezing

If you want to savor these treats later, freeze them once completely cooled. Layer the cookies with parchment paper between each and seal tightly in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh up to six months, ready to thaw when a cookie craving strikes.

Reheating

To enjoy frozen snickerdoodles at their best, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before serving. For a warm twist, pop them in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to revive their fresh-baked softness.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted in this recipe?

You can substitute salted butter, but be sure to reduce or omit the added salt in the dough to avoid an overly salty taste. Unsalted butter helps control salt levels better for the perfect flavor balance in this Easy Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe.

Why do we use cream of tartar in snickerdoodles?

Cream of tartar gives snickerdoodles their signature tangy flavor and helps create that wonderfully chewy texture. It reacts with baking soda to make the cookies rise and puff up beautifully during baking.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, you can swap butter for a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs or other egg replacers. Keep in mind that texture and flavor might differ slightly, but it can still be a delicious treat!

Why do snickerdoodles crack on top?

Those charming cracks are a hallmark of snickerdoodles and are caused by the dough expanding in the oven. They indicate a soft, chewy interior paired with a slightly crisp exterior — exactly what you want!

How long do these cookies last at room temperature?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these snickerdoodle cookies stay fresh and soft for about five days at room temperature. Remember the white bread trick to extend their softness even longer.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about baking and sharing a batch of these Easy Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe. Their soft, cinnamon-kissed goodness has a way of brightening any day or celebration. Give this recipe a try next time you want something quick, comforting, and utterly delicious — I promise these cookies will become a cherished favorite in your baking rotation!