Introduction
Snickerdoodle cookies are a classic treat that are loved by many. These cookies are soft, chewy, and coated in a delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture that gives them a unique and addictive flavor. They are perfect for any occasion, from a casual afternoon snack to a fancy dessert for a dinner party.
If you’ve never made snickerdoodle cookies before, you might be surprised at how simple they are to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a batch of these delicious cookies in your own kitchen. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making snickerdoodle cookies, from preparing the dough to baking and coating them in cinnamon-sugar.
What are Snickerdoodle Cookies?
Snickerdoodle cookies are a type of sugar cookie that is rolled in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking. They are thought to have originated in Germany and were brought over to the United States by Dutch immigrants. Over time, they have become a beloved American classic.
Snickerdoodle cookies are typically made with cream of tartar, which gives them a slightly tangy flavor and helps to activate the baking soda in the recipe. They are also often flavored with vanilla extract or almond extract, which adds a subtle sweetness to the dough. The cinnamon-sugar coating is what really sets snickerdoodle cookies apart, giving them a warm and cozy flavor that is perfect for fall and winter.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
For this snickerdoodle cookie recipe, you will need the following dry ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 3/4 cups |
| Cream of tartar | 2 teaspoons |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Make sure to measure the flour properly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife.
Wet Ingredients
For the wet ingredients, you will need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter, softened | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1 1/2 cups |
| Eggs | 2 large |
Make sure the butter is at room temperature and not melted. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy before adding the eggs one at a time.
For the cinnamon-sugar coating, you will need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 tablespoon |
Mix the sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl to coat the cookie dough balls before baking.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to start baking these delicious snickerdoodle cookies!
Steps to Make Snickerdoodle Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of cream of tartar, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Chilling the dough will help the cookies keep their shape while baking.
Step 6: Shape the Dough into Balls
Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, shape the dough into 1 1/2 inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Roll the Dough in Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade snickerdoodle cookies!
Tips for Making Perfect Snickerdoodle Cookies
Snickerdoodle cookies are a classic treat that are loved by many. Here are some tips to make sure your snickerdoodles come out perfect every time:
1. Use the Right Ingredients
Using high-quality ingredients is key to making delicious snickerdoodles. Use fresh butter, high-quality cinnamon, and pure vanilla extract for the best results. Also, make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh.
2. Chill the Dough
Chilling the dough before baking helps the cookies keep their shape and prevents them from spreading too much. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
3. Roll the Dough in Cinnamon Sugar
The cinnamon sugar coating is what makes snickerdoodles so delicious. Roll the dough balls in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking. Make sure the dough balls are evenly coated for the best flavor.
4. Don’t Overbake
Overbaking snickerdoodles can result in dry and hard cookies. Bake the cookies until they are just set and the edges are slightly golden. They will continue to cook and set as they cool.
5. Use Parchment Paper
Using parchment paper on your baking sheet will prevent the cookies from sticking and make clean up a breeze.
6. Experiment with Add-ins
While snickerdoodles are delicious on their own, you can also experiment with adding in other flavors. Try adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even pumpkin puree for a fun twist on this classic cookie.
7. Store Properly
To keep your snickerdoodles fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months.
With these tips, you’ll be able to make perfect snickerdoodle cookies every time. Enjoy!
Conclusion
There you have it, a step-by-step guide on how to make snickerdoodle cookies. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, you can create these delicious treats in no time. Remember to follow the recipe closely and pay attention to the details, such as the temperature and timing, to ensure that your cookies turn out perfectly.
One of the best things about snickerdoodle cookies is their versatility. You can enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee, serve them as a dessert at a party or potluck, or even give them as a gift to someone special. They are simple yet elegant, and their cinnamon-sugar coating adds a touch of warmth and comfort to any occasion.
Another great thing about making snickerdoodle cookies is that you can customize them to your liking. You can add different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, or experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or coconut sugar. You can also make them vegan or gluten-free by substituting certain ingredients.
Overall, making snickerdoodle cookies is a fun and rewarding experience that anyone can enjoy. With a little practice, you can become a master of this classic recipe and impress your friends and family with your baking skills. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how delicious and satisfying homemade snickerdoodle cookies can be?