Description

Soft, chewy snickerdoodle cookies with crisp edges and a signature cinnamon-sugar crackle. This budget-friendly recipe uses simple pantry staples and takes less than 30 minutes to make.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, for the dough
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2¾ cups (340g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar, for coating
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two standard baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Do not overmix.
In a shallow bowl, mix the ½ cup sugar and cinnamon. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.
Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Place on prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are set and lightly golden but centers still look soft.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened but not melted for proper texture. Do not substitute baking soda for baking powder. Cream of tartar is essential for the classic tangy flavor and chewy texture. Dough can be chilled if kitchen is hot to prevent excessive spreading. Cookies freeze well for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 120
Sugar: 12
Sodium: 60
Fat: 5
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 18
Protein: 1

Keywords: snickerdoodle, cookies, cinnamon sugar, budget baking, easy dessert, kid-friendly, pantry staples, classic cookies