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Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies

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By Betty Crocker Kitchens
Updated Nov 12, 2024
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Some people think of this cookie as a holiday dessert—and it’s true. Their subtle, traditional flavor is a lovely addition to festive cookie plates. But the brilliant thing about this classic treat—and what makes this one of the best Snickerdoodle recipes—is that it’s so simple to make, so comforting and unassuming, that they’re perfect for any occasion: lazy weekends, dinner parties, coffee dates and care packages.

What are Snickerdoodle cookies?

They are often put in the same camp as sugar cookies, but the two are more like cookie cousins vs. siblings. What sets Snickerdoodles apart is that they are rolled in a mix of cinnamon and sugar. They also include cream of tartar, which gives the cookie its signature texture and flavor.

We think these are some of the best Snickerdoodle cookies because they are rich and oh-so buttery. Combine these flavors with the cinnamon-sugar mix and you have the perfect balance! Best of all, this easy snickerdoodle recipe is made with basic pantry ingredients, so there’s no need for an extra run to the grocery store. (Don’t forget the cream of tartar!)

How did Snickerdoodles get their name?

While most sources agree that this treat originated with Dutch-German immigrants in New England, the name itself is a bit of a mystery. Some think it’s based on the German word Schneckennudel, a type of sweet bun. Others think it could simply be a made-up word—those New England bakers had a tradition of creating whimsical cookie names, apparently because they were just so fun to say!

How to serve Snickerdoodle cookies

Homemade Snickerdoodle cookies are always a family favorite. These classic cookies come out of the oven delightfully crispy around the edges, with a crackly top and a soft, chewy middle. Serve them slightly warm with a mug of hot coffee or a big glass of cold milk.

More About This Recipe

  • The whimsical name is just part of its allure, for the snickerdoodle may sound funny to say, but it tastes great to eat. These days, the flavor—and the scent—of home-baked snickerdoodles is more popular than ever. You can find snickerdoodle flavor or scent in cereals, coffee, ice cream, candles and even body lotion (because who doesn’t want to smell like a snickerdoodle?). Once you’ve mastered the basics of this snickerdoodle recipe, consider trying the variations you’ll find in Betty’s best snickerdoodle cookies collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Classic Snickerdoodle Cookies

  • Prep Time 40 min
  • Total 50 min
  • Servings 48
  • Ingredients 10
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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 3/4 cups Gold Medal™ All Purpose Flour
  • 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Make With
Gold Medal Flour

Instructions

  • Step 
    1
    Heat oven to 400°F.
  • Step 
    2
    Mix 1 1/2 cups sugar, the butter, shortening and eggs in large bowl.
  • Step 
    3
    Stir in flour, cream of tartar, baking soda and salt.
  • Step 
    4
    Mix 1/4 cup sugar and the cinnamon.
  • Step 
    5
    Shape dough into 1 1/4-inch balls. Roll balls in cinnamon-sugar mixture. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet.
  • Step 
    6
    Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until set. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack.

Nutrition

90 Calories
4 g Total Fat
1 g Protein
13 g Total Carbohydrate

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 Serving
Calories
90
Calories from Fat
35
Total Fat
4 g
Saturated Fat
2 g
Cholesterol
15 mg
Sodium
55 mg
Potassium
30 mg
Total Carbohydrate
13 g
Dietary Fiber
0g
Protein
1 g
% Daily Value*:
Vitamin A
0%
0%
Vitamin C
2%
2%
Calcium
0%
0%
Iron
2%
2%
Exchanges:
1 Starch;
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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