Snickerdoodles

Presentation:

Snickerdoodles are a beloved classic in the world of cookies, known for their soft, chewy texture and distinct cinnamon-sugar coating. This timeless treat is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. The combination of buttery dough and the warm spice of cinnamon creates a flavor that is both comforting and irresistible.

The origin of Snickerdoodles is somewhat debated, but they have been a favorite in American households for generations. They are often considered a nostalgic recipe, one that reminds people of childhood baking moments. With just a few simple ingredients, Snickerdoodles are easy to make and require minimal prep time, making them an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.

This Snickerdoodle recipe will guide you through the steps of creating these delicious cookies. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or something special to share with friends, these Snickerdoodles will surely be a hit. The blend of cinnamon and sugar on the exterior, combined with the soft, pillowy inside, makes each bite a delightful experience. Let’s dive in and start baking.

Ingredients:

Before diving into the recipe, here’s a list of the essential ingredients you’ll need to make your Snickerdoodles:

These ingredients come together to form the base of the Snickerdoodles. It’s important to have everything ready before you start baking to ensure a smooth process and perfect results.

Nutritional Information

Snickerdoodles are undeniably delicious, but if you’re wondering about the nutritional content, here’s a detailed breakdown. These cookies, while indulgent, offer a moderate calorie count and are generally considered an occasional treat rather than an everyday snack. The combination of butter and sugar contributes to their sweet and rich flavor, but they also provide a source of carbohydrates and fats.

Snickerdoodles are a delightful treat, but like any dessert, they should be enjoyed in moderation. A serving typically provides a good balance of sweetness and flavor, but it’s always best to savor them as part of a balanced diet. If you’re looking to make them healthier, consider using less sugar or swapping out butter for a lighter option.

Tools Needed

To bake Snickerdoodles, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools to make the process easier:

1. Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining the wet and dry ingredients. It’s important to use a bowl with enough space to comfortably mix everything without spilling.
2. Electric Mixer: While you can mix by hand, an electric mixer (stand or handheld) will help cream the butter and sugar together quickly and efficiently. This ensures your dough is smooth and well-mixed, which is essential for achieving the right texture.
3. Baking Sheets: You’ll need a couple of baking sheets lined with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier. Make sure the sheets are spaced out to allow the cookies to spread evenly while baking.
4. Cookie Scoop or Spoon: A cookie scoop helps you portion out uniform amounts of dough, ensuring that all your Snickerdoodles bake evenly. It also makes the process faster and more consistent.

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

These times are estimates, depending on your kitchen setup. The preparation time involves mixing the dough and rolling it into balls, while the cooking time refers to the actual baking process.

Preparation Steps:

Here’s how to make Snickerdoodles step by step:

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheets

• How to test properly: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Why is this important?: Properly preheating the oven ensures that the cookies bake evenly. The parchment paper prevents sticking and allows for easy cleanup.
• Why is this a good idea?: This saves time and guarantees your Snickerdoodles come out perfectly crisp on the edges and soft in the center.

2. Mix the dry ingredients

• How to test properly: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
• Why is this important?: Mixing the dry ingredients ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps your cookies rise properly.
• Why is this a good idea?: It helps avoid lumps of flour or salt in the dough and ensures a smooth, uniform texture.

3. Cream the butter and sugar

• How to test properly: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Why is this important?: Creaming the butter and sugar incorporates air into the dough, which helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
• Why is this a good idea?: This step ensures a smooth texture for the dough and an even distribution of sweetness throughout the cookies.

4. Add the eggs and vanilla

• How to test properly: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Why is this important?: Eggs provide structure to the dough, while vanilla enhances the flavor.
• Why is this a good idea?: Adding eggs gradually ensures that they’re fully incorporated into the dough without overworking it.

5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients

• How to test properly: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
• Why is this important?: Overmixing at this stage can lead to tough cookies, so it’s important to stop as soon as everything is incorporated.
• Why is this a good idea?: This ensures the cookies stay soft and chewy, rather than becoming dense.

6. Roll the dough into balls and coat in cinnamon-sugar

• How to test properly: Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls, then roll them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
• Why is this important?: The cinnamon-sugar coating adds flavor and texture to the Snickerdoodles, giving them their signature taste.
• Why is this a good idea?: It creates a crispy, flavorful crust around the soft, chewy interior.

7. Bake the Snickerdoodles

• How to test properly: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Why is this important?: Proper spacing ensures the cookies bake evenly and don’t spread too much.
• Why is this a good idea?: This creates perfectly baked Snickerdoodles with a soft center and crispy edges.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not properly measuring the flour:

One of the most common mistakes when baking Snickerdoodles is improperly measuring the flour. It’s easy to scoop flour directly from the bag using your measuring cup, but this method often leads to using more flour than necessary. When too much flour is added, it can make the cookies dense, dry, and crumbly. This is because excess flour absorbs too much moisture, creating a cookie that lacks the soft and chewy texture Snickerdoodles are known for.

How to avoid it: To measure flour correctly, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with a flat edge (like a knife or spatula). This ensures you are using the correct amount. Using the right flour-to-liquid ratio is key to getting that perfect, soft, and slightly chewy texture that defines a great Snickerdoodle.

Using cold butter:

Using cold butter instead of softened butter can cause problems when making Snickerdoodles. Cold butter doesn’t cream well with sugar, which is an essential step in the process. If the butter is too firm, it will be difficult to incorporate air into the dough, resulting in cookies that are either too hard or don’t spread enough. The cookie dough can also end up with lumps of butter, leading to uneven texture in the final baked product.

How to avoid it: Always make sure to use softened butter for Snickerdoodles. This means the butter should be at room temperature, soft enough to leave an indentation when pressed but not so melted that it becomes liquid. Softened butter will cream with sugar more easily, allowing the dough to be smooth, light, and airy, ensuring a tender, perfectly-textured cookie.

Skipping the cream of tartar:

Cream of tartar is a key ingredient in Snickerdoodles, and skipping it can completely alter the flavor and texture of your cookies. Cream of tartar serves two main functions: it provides the signature tangy flavor that gives Snickerdoodles their unique taste, and it helps stabilize the dough, allowing the cookies to rise properly. Without cream of tartar, your Snickerdoodles may lack their characteristic flavor, and they might not have the ideal texture, often resulting in cookies that are too flat or too chewy.

How to avoid it: Don’t skip the cream of tartar! It’s a crucial ingredient in creating the right balance of flavor and texture. If you’re out of cream of tartar, you can substitute it with a mixture of baking powder and baking soda, but this will not yield the exact same result. For authentic Snickerdoodles, make sure to include cream of tartar for that classic taste and texture.

Overbaking the cookies:

Snickerdoodles are delicate and bake quickly, which means they can easily go from perfectly soft to overdone if you’re not careful. Overbaking will result in dry, crunchy cookies, and you’ll lose that signature softness in the center. Snickerdoodles typically bake for about 10-12 minutes, but since ovens can vary, it’s important to keep an eye on the cookies as they bake.

How to avoid it: To prevent overbaking, start checking your cookies a minute or two before the recommended baking time is up. The cookies should be golden at the edges but still slightly soft in the center. The best way to know when they’re done is by gently pressing on them: they should feel set but still soft in the middle. Once the edges are golden, take them out of the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This ensures they retain their softness and don’t become overcooked.

Tips:

Use a cookie scoop

A cookie scoop is one of the most useful tools in your baking arsenal. It ensures you scoop out uniform amounts of dough, so each cookie is the same size. This uniformity helps create an even batch of Snickerdoodles, where all the cookies bake at the same rate and come out perfectly.

• Why is this important?: When your cookies are uniform in size, they bake more consistently. You avoid situations where some cookies are overcooked while others remain underdone. Plus, using a cookie scoop helps give your batch a more professional appearance, with neat, round cookies that look as good as they taste.

Chill the dough

If you have the time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can significantly improve the texture and spread of your Snickerdoodles. After mixing the dough, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and chill it in the fridge.

• Why is this important?: Chilling the dough firms it up, which helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much when baked. Without chilling, the cookies might spread too thin, resulting in flat, crispy edges rather than the thicker, fluffier Snickerdoodles you want. Chilled dough also makes it easier to handle and roll into neat dough balls, contributing to the perfect cookie shape.

Experiment with different sugars

While the classic Snickerdoodle recipe calls for granulated sugar, you can get creative by experimenting with other types of sugar like brown sugar or coconut sugar. These alternatives offer a unique flavor profile and can add depth to your cookies.

• Why is this important?: Brown sugar contains molasses, which imparts a subtle caramel flavor and adds moisture to the dough, creating a chewier texture. Coconut sugar, on the other hand, has a more complex, earthy flavor that can make your Snickerdoodles stand out. By trying different sugars, you can elevate your cookies and give them a personalized twist while still preserving the essence of the classic Snickerdoodle flavor.

Accompaniment:

Snickerdoodles pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and treats. Enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a great addition to any dessert table, alongside other holiday cookies or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fun twist, try dipping your Snickerdoodles in milk or pairing them with a fruity sorbet to balance the rich, cinnamon flavor.

If you’re looking to elevate your Snickerdoodle experience, consider serving them alongside a rich hot chocolate or a creamy latte. The combination of spices and warmth will complement the cookies perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying treat.

Conclusion:

Snickerdoodles are the ultimate comfort cookie, combining simple ingredients with a classic flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to please. With their soft, chewy texture and cinnamon-sugar coating, Snickerdoodles remain a favorite in many households.

Remember, the key to perfect Snickerdoodles is the balance between the right ingredients and precise baking time. Don’t forget to follow each step carefully, from mixing the dough to testing the cookies for doneness.

Enjoy these delightful cookies with friends, family, or even just by yourself, as a well-deserved treat after a long day. No matter the occasion, Snickerdoodles are always a good idea, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.

Happy baking! May your Snickerdoodles be soft, warm, and delicious every time

Snickerdoodles

Delight in the sweet, cinnamon-sugar goodness of Snickerdoodles! These soft and chewy cookies, with their signature crackled tops, are a comforting treat for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this step-by-step recipe will have you baking like a pro. Download now and treat yourself to a batch of homemade Snickerdoodles.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 24 cookies

Calories 110 kcal

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 ½ teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rolling)
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for rolling)

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the egg until well combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and flour. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
• In a small bowl, mix together the 2 tablespoons of sugar and cinnamon.
• Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
• Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy your delicious Snickerdoodles!

Notes

Calories: 110 kcal per cookie

FAQ:

Why is it called a Snickerdoodle?

The name “Snickerdoodle” likely comes from a combination of the German word “schneckennudeln,” which refers to a type of cinnamon-sugar pastry, and an American twist. The “doodle” part might refer to a whimsical, fun name, as the cookies are simple yet delightful. This charming name has become synonymous with the soft, cinnamon-sugar coated cookies we know today as Snickerdoodles.

What are snickerdoodles called in England?

In England, Snickerdoodles are not as common, and they don’t have a specific British name. While similar cinnamon-sugar cookies exist, Snickerdoodles are considered a distinctly American treat. The unique combination of cinnamon and sugar with a soft, chewy texture is what sets Snickerdoodles apart from other cookies globally.

What does a snickerdoodle taste like?

A Snickerdoodle has a sweet, warm flavor from the combination of sugar and cinnamon. The outside is slightly crisp, while the inside remains soft and chewy. This delightful contrast, along with the tangy undertones from the cream of tartar, gives Snickerdoodles their unique taste, making them a favorite among cinnamon lovers.

What is the meaning of snickerdoodle?

The word “Snickerdoodle” doesn’t have a clear, direct meaning. It is thought to be a playful, nonsensical name, possibly derived from “snicker” (a giggle or laugh) and “doodle” (a simple drawing or pattern). It reflects the fun and whimsical nature of these beloved cookies, which have a lighthearted name to match their sweet, comforting flavor.

What nationality is snickerdoodle?

Snickerdoodles are a classic American cookie, originating in New England or Pennsylvania in the early 19th century. While the exact origins are unclear, Snickerdoodles are firmly rooted in American baking tradition. Their simple ingredients and delightful cinnamon-sugar coating have made them a popular choice in the United States for generations.

What were cookies originally called?

Cookies were originally called “biscuits” in English-speaking countries. The term “cookie” comes from the Dutch word “koekje,” which means “little cake.” The Dutch settlers in America introduced this term, and over time, “cookies” became the standard name for the small, sweet baked treats, especially in the United States.