If you've been wondering how to make perfect snickerdoodles, you're in for a treat! My son, Jake, once declared that snickerdoodles are his favorite cookies, and I couldn't agree more. These soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies without shortening are a family favorite that brings smiles to our faces.
Table of Contents
Why Youโll Love It
- They’re soft and chewy with a delightful cinnamon-sugar coating.
- You can whip them up quickly with simple ingredients.
- They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Pure Comfort
There’s something about the warm, sweet aroma of snickerdoodles baking that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a rainy day or a sunny afternoon, these cookies are pure comfort.
What You Need
- 2 sticks 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – You can use margarine as a substitute.
- 300 g 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – Brown sugar can be used for a richer flavor.
- 2 2 large eggs – Room temperature eggs work best.
- 330 g 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- 2 2 tsp cream of tartar – This gives snickerdoodles their signature tang.
- 1 1 tsp baking soda – Make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- 1/2 1/2 tsp salt – Kosher salt works well too.
- 3 3 tbsp granulated sugar – For rolling the cookies.
- 1 1 tbsp ground cinnamon – Cinnamon adds that warm, cozy flavor.
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 10 minutes | Total: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350 ยฐF. This step is crucial as it ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You want the mixture to be pale and airy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The batter should be smooth and creamy, with a lovely sheen.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and ensures your cookies rise beautifully.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; you donโt want to overmix or your cookies might turn out tough.
- In a small bowl, combine the 3 tablespoons of sugar and cinnamon for rolling. This mixture will give your cookies that classic snickerdoodle flavor.
- Scoop the dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each ball.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and develop that perfect chewy texture.
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- If you like your cookies a bit thicker, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookies that bake evenly.
Mix It Up
- Try adding chocolate chips for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
- For a fun surprise, mix in some chopped nuts or dried fruit.
Perfect Partners
- These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea.
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FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I freeze snickerdoodle cookies?
Yes, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of cream of tartar?
You can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or vinegar.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies can be a result of melted butter or not enough flour. Make sure to measure accurately!
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make perfect snickerdoodles, it's time to bake a batch for your family. These cookies are not just a treat; they create memories. Enjoy every bite!

Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodle Cookies Without Shortening
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- small bowl
Ingredients
Main
- 2 sticks unsalted butter softened, margarine can be used as substitute
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar brown sugar can be used for richer flavor
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option
- 2 tsp cream of tartar gives snickerdoodles signature tang
- 1 tsp baking soda make sure it’s fresh for best rise
- 1/2 tsp salt kosher salt works well
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar for rolling cookies
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon adds warm, cozy flavor
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 ยฐF for even baking and golden cookies.
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and creamy.
- Whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Combine the 3 tablespoons sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for rolling.
- Scoop the dough into 1-inch balls and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Let cookies cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire rack.