Soft Chewy Cinnamon Snickerdoodles Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself craving that perfect balance of soft, chewy texture with a warm cinnamon sugar coating, then you are absolutely going to adore this Soft Chewy Cinnamon Snickerdoodles Recipe. These cookies bring together the nostalgic flavors we all love, with a tender bite that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s for a cozy afternoon treat or a festive occasion, this recipe delivers that comforting cinnamon spice magic in a way that’s both simple and irresistibly delicious. Prepare to have your cookie jar begging for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking these delightful Soft Chewy Cinnamon Snickerdoodles. Each element plays a crucial role, from the rich butter that ensures tenderness to the cream of tartar that gives the cookies their classic tang and texture.

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened: Provides the creamy richness that keeps these cookies soft and flavorful.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a delicate crisp edge while keeping the center chewy.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture for perfect chewiness.
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie, creating structure without sacrificing tenderness.
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar: Adds that signature tang and boosts the soft, chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and develop their classic crackled tops.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon, divided: Infuses warmth and deep cinnamon flavor; half goes in the dough, half in the coating.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for rolling: Mixes with cinnamon to create that iconic snickerdoodle exterior.

How to Make Soft Chewy Cinnamon Snickerdoodles Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the cookies bake evenly and release easily. This simple preparation is key for flawless cookies.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming step incorporates air, which contributes to the soft, tender crumb of the cookies.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each to fully incorporate them. This ensures your dough will be smooth and well-blended, lending moisture for perfect chew.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This step evenly distributes the leavening and enhances the snickerdoodle’s classic tang.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your creamed butter and sugar. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so keep it light and easy.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. This cinnamon sugar mixture is what will make your cookies shimmer with warmth and irresistible aroma.

Step 7: Shape and Coat the Dough Balls

Roll the cookie dough into 1-inch balls, then generously roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat every nook and cranny. This step builds that classic snickerdoodle crust and flavor.

Step 8: Arrange on Baking Sheets

Place the cinnamon-sugar coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Proper spacing means perfect cookies, not cookie pancakes.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are firm but the centers still look soft. This timing is critical for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth chewiness that defines this Soft Chewy Cinnamon Snickerdoodles Recipe.

Step 10: Cool Before Enjoying

Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool for 5 minutes right on the sheets. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set perfectly while staying soft inside.

How to Serve Soft Chewy Cinnamon Snickerdoodles Recipe

Garnishes

Though these snickerdoodles shine beautifully on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate can add an elegant touch. For a seasonal twist, sprinkle with crushed candied ginger or a pinch of nutmeg right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair your snickerdoodles with a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming mug of chai tea or coffee. The warm spices in the cookies complement these drinks marvelously, making snack time a delightful ritual.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, sandwich two cookies together with cream cheese frosting or a dollop of vanilla bean ice cream. Arrange on a vibrant plate lined with cinnamon sticks and star anise for a charming presentation that invites smiles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your soft chewy cinnamon snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their chewiness, add a slice of bread to the container—the cookies will happily soak up the moisture without losing flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze baked snickerdoodles by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months, perfect for future cravings.

Reheating

To revive the soft-chewy texture, warm frozen or stored cookies in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps awaken the cinnamon aroma and softness.

FAQs

What makes snickerdoodles chewy and soft?

The combination of cream of tartar, baking soda, and the right amount of butter creates the unique texture. The cream of tartar adds a subtle tang and softness, while careful baking time keeps the centers tender.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt slightly in the recipe since salted butter already contains salt. This helps keep the flavor balanced without being too salty.

Why do snickerdoodles have a cracked surface?

The crackled tops come from the baking soda reacting with the cream of tartar, causing the dough to spread and crack during baking, which is a signature feature of snickerdoodles.

Is it okay to chill the dough before baking?

Absolutely! Chilling the dough for 30 minutes to an hour can make the dough easier to handle and result in a slightly thicker cookie, though this recipe works beautifully even when baked right after mixing.

Can I substitute the cinnamon in the coating?

While cinnamon is classic, you can experiment with pumpkin pie spice, cardamom, or even cocoa powder mixed with sugar for a different flavor profile that still works well with the soft chewy texture.

Final Thoughts

Give this Soft Chewy Cinnamon Snickerdoodles Recipe a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite cookie go-tos. The comforting cinnamon sugar flavor paired with that perfect soft chewiness makes these cookies truly special. Whether you bake them for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and warm moments to your kitchen. Happy baking!

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