Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe

Snickerdoodle cookies are a classic treat known for their soft, chewy texture and delightful cinnamon-sugar flavor. This recipe will guide you through creating the perfect batch of snickerdoodles, ensuring they are both delicious and easy to make. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cookies are sure to impress.

To make these snickerdoodle cookies, you'll need a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of these ingredients creates the signature taste and texture that snickerdoodle cookies are famous for.

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Follow these simple steps to bake your snickerdoodle cookies to perfection. Each step is designed to ensure that your cookies come out soft, chewy, and full of flavor.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 1 1/2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. In a small bowl, combine the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar with the cinnamon.
7. Roll the dough into small balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
8. Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The secret to achieving soft snickerdoodle cookies lies in the balance of ingredients and baking time. Using cream of tartar not only adds a tangy flavor but also helps to create a soft and chewy texture. Additionally, ensuring that the cookies are not overbaked is crucial to maintaining their softness.

Snickerdoodle cookies have a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. They are believed to have originated in Germany, with the name possibly derived from the German word 'Schneckennudeln,' which refers to a type of cinnamon-dusted sweet roll. Over time, snickerdoodles became a beloved treat in the United States, particularly in New England, where they were often enjoyed with a glass of milk.

The main flavor of snickerdoodle cookies comes from the generous coating of cinnamon and sugar, which gives them their distinctive taste. This classic cookie has stood the test of time, remaining a favorite among cookie enthusiasts for generations.