Name: The Best Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies You'll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for the perfect cookie texture); 2 teaspoons cream of tartar (adds that signature tangy flavor); 1 teaspoon baking soda (helps the cookies rise beautifully); 1 teaspoon salt (enhances the sweetness of the cookies); 1 ½ cups unsalted butter (use softened butter for easy mixing); 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (this provides sweetness and moisture); 3 large eggs (ensures the cookies are rich and tender); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (adds depth of flavor); ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling the cookies, giving it that iconic sweet crust); 2 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon (the star spice that makes these cookies unforgettable)

There’s a timeless joy that comes from the warmth of freshly baked cookies filling my kitchen, and nothing captures that bliss quite like Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies. Imagine biting into a cookie that has a delightful almond undertone, a perfect blend of softness and chewiness, and a dusting of cinnamon that brings back the sweet moments of childhood.

After a particularly long week, I craved a treat that felt both indulgent and comforting—enter these delightful snickerdoodles. With just a handful of simple ingredients and only 30 minutes of my time, I was transported back to simpler days, where cookies and milk were the ultimate reward for any hard work. These cookies aren’t just easy to whip up, but they also bring smiles to both family and friends.

If you’re ready to bring a little magic into your kitchen, let’s get started on making irresistibly soft and chewy snickerdoodles that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!

Why are Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies a favorite?

Irresistible aroma: The warm scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your kitchen creates a welcoming atmosphere that invites everyone to indulge.
Perfectly soft: These cookies boast a delightful chewiness that feels like a hug for your taste buds—no crumbles here!
Quick to make: Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re perfect for last-minute cravings or surprise guests.
Family favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, these cookies are sure to bring everyone together for a sweet treat.
Versatile joy: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or nuts for a twist on this classic!

Make your baking adventures even smoother with our tips for perfect cookies.

Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookie Ingredients

• Get ready to bake the ultimate Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies!

4 ½ cups all-purpose flour – for the perfect cookie texture
2 teaspoons cream of tartar – adds that signature tangy flavor
1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the cookies rise beautifully
1 teaspoon salt – enhances the sweetness of the cookies
1 ½ cups unsalted butter – use softened butter for easy mixing
1 ½ cups granulated sugar – this provides sweetness and moisture
3 large eggs – ensures the cookies are rich and tender
1 tablespoon vanilla extract – adds depth of flavor
½ cup granulated sugar – for rolling the cookies, giving it that iconic sweet crust
2 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon – the star spice that makes these cookies unforgettable

Get your ingredients ready and let’s create those memorable Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies that everyone will adore!

How to Make Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats, which will keep your cookies from sticking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. This blend is essential for creating that signature soft and chewy texture. Set aside.
Cream butter and sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened unsalted butter and the granulated sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes. This step adds air, making your cookies delightfully tender.
Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the tablespoon of vanilla extract, ensuring a rich flavor throughout the dough.
Combine mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture in three batches, mixing until just combined each time. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides as needed to ensure thorough mixing.
Prepare cinnamon coating: In a medium bowl, blend together the sugar and ground cinnamon. This fragrant combination is what makes the cookies irresistibly delightful.
Shape the dough: Portion the cookie dough into 12 even-sized portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and coat it thoroughly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Arrange them on the baking sheets, 6 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Flatten the dough balls: Gently press down on each cookie dough ball to flatten them out into large, flat circles. This will help them cook evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
Bake to perfection: Place the trays in the oven and bake for 14-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown. They should appear dry in the center while remaining slightly puffed—truly a visual treat!
Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is crucial for achieving the ideal soft and chewy bite.

Optional: Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon and sugar on top after baking for an irresistible finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.

Fridge: For prolonging freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week, but allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: Freeze snickerdoodle cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or heat briefly in the oven.

Reheating: To restore warmth and softness, pop the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies!

What to Serve with Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies?

These cookies are the perfect treat to complement a cozy gathering or a sweet pick-me-up after a long day.

Glass of Milk: A classic pairing, the creaminess of milk enhances the cinnamon-sugar flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Nestle warm snickerdoodles on a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures that feels like a hug in dessert form.
Coffee or Tea: The rich flavors of coffee or a soothing herbal tea balance the sweetness of the cookies, creating a comforting afternoon break.
Fruit Compote: A spoonful of berry or apple compote adds a fresh, tart contrast that elevates the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite a little adventure.
Nutty Trail Mix: Feel free to add a handful of nuts or a sprinkle of chocolate chips into your mix for a crunchy side that complements the lovely chewiness of the cookies.
Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For an indulgent touch, dip half of each cookie in warm chocolate sauce. The combination of flavors will make them utterly irresistible!

Feel free to mix and match to create a delightful experience that brings joy to every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, keeping its delightful flavor and texture intact. Simply portion the dough into balls and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, then cover and store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven and place the chilled dough on the baking sheets before baking for the usual 14-15 minutes. This allows you to enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort any day of the week, making it a fantastic time-saving strategy for busy home cooks!

Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore new flavors and textures with these delightful variations that elevate your snickerdoodle experience!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a similar texture that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a decadent take on the classic cookies.
Cream Cheese: Replace half the butter with cream cheese for a rich, tangy flavor and soft texture that’s hard to resist.
Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for a warm spice kick that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
Coconut Lover: Mix in 1 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist that adds chewiness and flavor.
Maple Syrup: Substitute the granulated sugar in your dough with maple syrup for a unique sweetness that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Chili Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your cinnamon sugar coating for a surprising spicy kick that pairs delightfully with sweet.

Experimenting with these variations will make your Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies truly one-of-a-kind!

Expert Tips for Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies

Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to prevent dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dryness, making them less chewy.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and contributes to that lovely soft texture.
Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling. This helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different. Start checking your cookies around the 12-minute mark to avoid overbaking—skirts of golden brown are your aim!
Cool on Baking Sheet: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring. This helps them firm up while retaining that delightful chew.

Making these Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies will be a hit with everyone!

Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for the best cookies?
Absolutely! For soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies, ensure your butter is room temperature—this means it should be soft enough to make an indentation with your finger but not melted. Use fresh eggs, as they provide richness and tenderness to the dough. When it comes to your spices, make sure your ground cinnamon is fresh; it should have a strong aroma. Old spices lose potency and may not provide the delightful flavor you desire!

How should I store my leftover cookies?
Very good question! After baking, allow your snickerdoodle cookies to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain that delightful softness. If you plan to keep them longer, consider moving them to the fridge—this extends their freshness to about a week!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies, first ensure they are completely cooled. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, and freeze for about an hour. Once firm, transfer the cookies to an airtight freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes to regain their chewy goodness!

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm butter, overly soft dough, or not enough flour. To prevent this from happening next time, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before shaping and baking—it helps them keep their shape. Also, be cautious about measuring your flour accurately; excess flour makes the dough less stable.

Are these cookies safe for those with allergies?
Great point to consider! Snickerdoodle cookies generally contain common allergens such as gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter), and eggs. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, I recommend using gluten-free flour, vegan butter, and a flax egg as substitutes. This way, everyone can enjoy these soft and chewy delights without worry!

How can I adjust the flavor of the cookies?
Very easily! If you want to add a twist to your soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies, try incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit into the dough. You can also experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping out some of the granulated sugar for brown sugar to enhance moisture and flavor depth. The more the merrier when it comes to flavors in the kitchen!