Chewy Snickerdoodle Recipe

This Chewy Snickerdoodle Recipe delivers soft, thick cookies with a tender bite, a hint of tang, and a cinnamon-sugar crackled exterior. With their signature flavor and nostalgic charm, snickerdoodles are a timeless favorite—especially when they’re baked to chewy perfection. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just because, these cookies are always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic cinnamon-sugar flavor with a chewy center
• No chilling required—cookies are ready fast
• Slight tang from cream of tartar gives authentic snickerdoodle flavor
• Great for holiday platters, lunchboxes, or afternoon treats
• Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cookie dough:

• All-purpose flour
• Cream of tartar
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar (adds moisture and chewiness)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

For the cinnamon-sugar coating:

• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon

directions

1. Preheat oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then mix in vanilla.
4. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Make the cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for coating.
6. Shape the cookies: Scoop dough (about 1½ tablespoons each), roll into balls, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
7. Bake: Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing a few inches apart. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are puffy but soft.
8. Cool: Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Makes about 24 cookies
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Make them extra soft: Slightly underbake and let them finish setting on the baking sheet.
• Add a twist: Mix in white chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
• Make them dairy-free: Use plant-based butter.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
• Make giant bakery-style cookies: Use ¼ cup dough per cookie and bake a few minutes longer.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months—thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Freeze unbaked dough balls for later and bake from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.

FAQs

What does cream of tartar do in snickerdoodles?

It gives snickerdoodles their classic tang and soft, chewy texture.

Can I substitute baking powder for cream of tartar?

It’s not ideal—cream of tartar gives snickerdoodles their signature flavor. But if needed, use 2 tsp baking powder and omit both the baking soda and cream of tartar.

Why are my cookies dry or cakey?

Overbaking or too much flour can cause dryness. Measure flour carefully and bake until just set.

Can I chill the dough?

Yes—chilling enhances flavor and prevents spreading. Chill for 30 minutes to 1 hour if desired.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Should I flatten the dough balls before baking?

No, they’ll spread naturally. Leave them in ball form for thicker, chewy cookies.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just bake in batches to avoid overcrowding your oven.

Why didn’t my cookies crack on top?

Cracking usually happens from a hot oven and correct dough texture. Make sure your oven is fully preheated.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes—store in the fridge for up to 48 hours or freeze for longer storage.

What pairs well with snickerdoodles?

Cold milk, chai tea, or hot cocoa all go perfectly with these cozy cookies.

Conclusion

These chewy snickerdoodles are soft, sweet, and warmly spiced—everything you want in a classic cookie. With their cinnamon-sugar coating and signature tang, they deliver comfort and nostalgia in every bite. Quick to make and easy to love, this recipe is a must-have for any cookie rotation.

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