What makes Snickerdoodle Cookies different from a sugar cookie recipe?

Snickerdoodle Cookies are rolled in cinnamon sugar and traditionally include cream of tartar, which gives them a tangy flavor and soft texture that sets them apart from a standard sugar cookie recipe.

Can I make a snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar?

Yes, you can make a snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar by using a cream of tartar substitute like baking powder. The cookies will still be soft and flavorful, making this an easy snickerdoodle recipe option.

Is this considered a classic snickerdoodle recipe?

This is a classic snickerdoodle recipe inspired by well-known cookie recipes such as the Betty Crocker snickerdoodle recipe, delivering crackled tops and chewy centers.

Can these cookies be made with fewer ingredients?

While this recipe uses traditional ingredients, simplified versions like 3 ingredient snickerdoodle cookies exist, though they won’t have the same texture as the best snickerdoodle recipe.

Snickerdoodle Cookies – Easy, Soft, and Classic Recipe 2026

Name: Snickerdoodle Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating); 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon (for coating)

Description

Soft, chewy, and coated in cinnamon sugar, these tasty snickerdoodle cookies are a timeless classic. With their crackled tops and warm flavor, they’re perfect for holidays, bake sales, or an easy everyday treat. This recipe delivers bakery-style results with simple pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (makes about 24 cookies):

For the Cookies:

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

¼ cup granulated sugar
1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.

Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.

Step 3: Combine
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then coat each ball generously in cinnamon sugar.

Step 5: Bake
Place cookies 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Bake for 9–11 minutes, until edges are set but centers are soft.

Step 6: Cool
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Soft Centers: Cookies will continue to set as they cool—don’t overbake.
No Cream of Tartar Option: Substitute 2 teaspoons baking powder for both the cream of tartar and baking soda.
Extra Flavor: Chill dough for 30 minutes for thicker, chewier cookies.
Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Category: Dessert / Cookies
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American