The aroma of warm cinnamon wafting through the kitchen instantly brings back memories of cozy afternoons spent baking with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies without cream of tartar, a classic American dessert that’s both quick and easy to whip up. Using baking powder instead of cream of tartar not only simplifies the ingredient list but also ensures that you achieve that perfect soft and chewy texture we all crave. These delightful cookies are a fantastic way to please a crowd or simply satisfy your sweet tooth at home. Plus, they make the perfect treat for any occasion—from casual movie nights to festive gatherings. Curious to learn how to make these delectable delights? Let’s get baking!
Why Are Snickerdoodles So Irresistible?
Simplicity at Its Finest: Making these cookies doesn’t require a long list of ingredients or difficult techniques, making them beginner-friendly.
Quick and Easy: Having a busy schedule? This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, so you can indulge in freshly baked cookies without a lengthy prep time.
Bursting with Flavor: The delightful combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a sweet, aromatic experience that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies are sure to be a hit whether you’re hosting friends or craving a homemade snack.
Versatile Options: Try different variations by adding chocolate chips or nuts for an exciting twist. And if you love the cinnamon flavor, you might also enjoy these Cranberry Shortbread Cookies for another festive touch!
Get ready to enjoy the warm fuzzies that come with each soft bite of your homemade snickerdoodle cookies!
Snickerdoodle Cookie Ingredients
• Get ready to bake!
For the Dough
- Butter (½ cup / 113.5 g) – Provides richness and moisture; use room temperature butter for optimal mixing.
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup / 150 g) – Sweetens and contributes to the cookie’s chewy texture; adjust for reduced sweetness if desired.
- Egg (1 large, room temperature) – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; ensure it’s at room temperature for even mixing.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor profile; use pure vanilla extract for best results.
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) – Leavening agent to help cookies rise; do not substitute with baking soda.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; adjust if using salted butter.
- All-Purpose Flour (1⅓ cups / 185 g) – Provides structure to the cookies; sift before measuring for accuracy.
For Rolling
- Granulated Sugar (3 tablespoons) – For rolling cookies before baking, adds sweetness and texture; can substitute with brown sugar for a different flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon (½ tablespoon) – Adds warmth and flavor; increase for a more pronounced cinnamon taste.
Get ready to mix and bake these delightful snickerdoodle cookies that are sure to be a family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies Without Cream of Tartar
Step 1: Prep Pans and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing your workspace. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they’re ready for the cookie dough. This setup will help the cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking, giving your chewy snickerdoodle cookies that perfect texture.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer, combine the room temperature butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, appearing pale in color. Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until the ingredients meld seamlessly into a smooth blend.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Carefully add the baking powder, salt, and all-purpose flour to your wet mixture. Slowly incorporate these dry ingredients, mixing gently to keep the dough light and airy. Stop mixing as soon as the flour is just incorporated—over-mixing can lead to denser cookies, and you want those soft, chewy snickerdoodle cookies!
Step 4: Form Dough Balls
Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each one into a ball. Then, prepare a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon to roll the dough balls in—this adds that signature sweet, spicy crust to your cookies. Make sure each ball is well coated before proceeding to baking.
Step 5: Bake
Place 6-8 of the rolled dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a bit underbaked, which is perfect to maintain that chewy texture of your snickerdoodle cookies, so resist the urge to over-bake!
Storage Tips for Snickerdoodle Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your snickerdoodle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This keeps them soft and chewy.
Refrigerator: If you need to extend their freshness, place the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Dough Storage: Cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to a month. Roll it into balls, freeze them, and bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes—just don’t roll in cinnamon sugar until ready to bake!
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for those who want to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients, and refrigerating the dough (just be sure not to roll it in cinnamon sugar until you’re ready to bake). To maintain their chewy texture, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, simply scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and bake them for 10-13 minutes until they’re golden. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, fresh snickerdoodle cookies with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps create a well-mixed dough and ensures a tender texture in your snickerdoodle cookies.
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Don’t Over-Mix: Once the flour is added, mix just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired chewy consistency.
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Cinnamon Sugar Coating: For an even better flavor, roll your dough balls in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon right before baking. This enhances the overall sweetness and cinnamon flavor.
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Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be lightly golden on the edges and slightly soft in the center to maintain that beloved chewiness.
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Cooling on Pans: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up without losing their perfect chewy texture.
Snickerdoodle Cookies: Creative Variations
Feel free to customize your snickerdoodle cookies by exploring these delightful twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Brown Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for brown sugar to add a rich caramel flavor. The molasses in brown sugar enhances the chewiness.
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Nutty Delight: Toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. The nuttiness complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
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Chocolatey Indulgence: Stir in chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for an added layer of sweetness. The gooey pockets of chocolate will send your craving into overdrive!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. You won’t lose that desirable chewy texture.
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Cinnamon Roll Fusion: Add a teaspoon of ground nutmeg for a spicier profile similar to cinnamon rolls. This twist brings a cozy warmth to each bite.
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Flavor Boost: Mix in a bit of maple syrup or almond extract for a unique flavor twist. Both add a pleasantly distinct layer that pairs well with cinnamon.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a subtle heat. This unexpected kick will surprise and delight everyone who tries them!
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Frosted Fun: Top baked cookies with a simple cream cheese frosting for a rich dessert experience. This is perfect if you’re looking to impress at a special gathering.
If you’re in the mood for something equally delightful, consider trying out these Chocolate Oat Cookies or the festive Parmesan Snowflake Cookies for a delicious twist on traditional baking! Enjoy your baking adventure!
What to Serve with Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies Without Cream of Tartar
Indulge your senses by creating a delightful spread to complement these warm, chewy delights that promise to uplift any gathering.
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Classic Milk: Pair with a tall glass of cold milk for a timeless duo. The creamy texture perfectly balances the sweetness of the snickerdoodles.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream offers a delicious contrast; the cold creaminess with warm cookies is pure bliss. Imagine each bite enveloped in melting goodness!
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Warm Coffee or Tea: Serve with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or herbal tea; the rich flavors enhance the cinnamon notes, providing a cozy experience.
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Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness. Bright fruits like berries or citrus complement the sweet, cinnamon flavor, making it a balanced treat.
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Brownies: Indulge in fudgy brownies for a dessert table that will impress everyone. The rich chocolate and cinnamon cookies create a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
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Cheese Plate: A selection of creamy cheeses can elevate your dessert game. Think of a soft brie or tangy goat cheese that deliciously contrasts with the sweet cookies while adding sophistication to your serving.
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Beverage Pairing: Consider a sparkling lemonade; the citrusy fizz cuts through the sweetness and keeps your palate refreshed, making each cookie taste even more delightful.
Create a spread that invites friends and family to gather and enjoy each bite together. Each pairing is a chance to deepen connections, rekindle memories, and craft new ones over delightful treats.
Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies Without Cream of Tartar Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter at room temperature for the best mixing. This ensures your cookies have the right amount of moisture and will turn out soft and chewy. If you only have salted butter, you might want to reduce the added salt in the recipe by a pinch.
How should I store my snickerdoodle cookies?
You can store your snickerdoodle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, transfer them to the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a while before enjoying to restore their delightful chewiness!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Very! To freeze your cookie dough, start by portioning it into balls. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze the dough for up to a month. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—no need to thaw!
What if my cookies are too flat after baking?
If your snickerdoodle cookies spread too much and come out flat, it could be due to several factors. First, ensure your butter is at room temperature and not melted. Also, check that you’re using the right amount of flour; it’s best to sift before measuring. Lastly, chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking if needed! This will help them keep their shape.
Are these snickerdoodle cookies safe for my pets?
No, they’re not! While the ingredients in these cookies are delicious for humans, they are not suitable for pets. Dogs and cats may not fare well with sugar and certain spices like cinnamon, which can upset their stomachs. Always enjoy your treats responsibly and keep them out of reach from your furry friends!
Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies You’ll Love Without Cream of Tartar
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your workspace. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, combine the room temperature butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until smooth.
- Carefully add the baking powder, salt, and flour. Mix gently to keep the dough light and airy.
- Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
- Place 6-8 rolled dough balls on the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-13 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
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