A Snickerdoodle for Everyone: Traditional, Healthy and Gluten-Free Recipes
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There’s nothing quite like the warmth and togetherness that baking brings, especially during the festive season.
As my children grow older, our kitchen has become more than just a place for cooking; it’s a sanctuary of laughter, learning, and love.
Our current obsession? Snickerdoodles. We love these cinnamon-sugar-coated cookies. I’m thrilled to share with you not just our recipe, but the stories and variations that make it uniquely ours.
Table of Contents
Ingredients To Make Snickerdoodles
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup butter (I prefer salted)
- 2 cups white sugar, divided
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp cinnamon
Snickerdoodle Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 1.5 cups of sugar until pale yellow and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the eggs one at a time.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar with the cinnamon.
- Shape the dough into golf ball-sized balls and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the balls 3 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 9-10 minutes or until the cookies are set but not too hard.
Snickerdoodle Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 85mg
The Best Snickerdoodles Recipe
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup butter I prefer salted
- 2 cups white sugar divided
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 1.5 cups of sugar until pale yellow and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the eggs one at a time.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, about 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar with the cinnamon.
- Shape the dough into golf ball-sized balls and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the balls 3 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 9-10 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not too hard.
Video
Snickerdoodle Variations
Snickerdoodles are a beloved classic, but even the classics can benefit from a little creativity. Exploring different snickerdoodle variations can add an exciting twist to your baking repertoire.
Here are some delightful ways to elevate the traditional snickerdoodle recipe, offering flavors and textures to suit a variety of tastes.
For those looking to add a healthier twist, substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour is a great option.
This not only brings a subtle nutty flavor but also complements the cinnamon beautifully, creating a cookie that’s both delicious and slightly more nutritious.
If you’re a fan of added textures, consider incorporating finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough. This simple modification adds an enjoyable crunch and a touch of richness, transforming the classic snickerdoodle into a nutty delight.
For those with gluten sensitivities or preferences, a gluten-free snickerdoodle variation is easily achievable. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Be sure to choose a blend that’s designed for baking and includes xanthan gum, which helps to mimic the texture and elasticity of gluten in baked goods.
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This gluten-free variation ensures that everyone can enjoy the delightful experience of a freshly baked snickerdoodle without any dietary concerns.
For a fusion of favorites, incorporating a cup of mini chocolate chips into the dough offers a wonderful combination. This variation marries the traditional snickerdoodle with the universal appeal of chocolate chip cookies, resulting in a treat that’s doubly delightful.
If you’re inclined towards a more refreshing and zesty flavor, adding the zest of one lemon to the dough can introduce a new, vibrant dimension to your snickerdoodles.
Each of these variations provides a unique way to enjoy the classic snickerdoodle. By experimenting with these ideas, you can discover a new family favorite or create a special signature cookie that’s sure to stand out in any holiday spread or casual gathering.
Preserving the Magic: Our Secrets to Long-Lasting Snickerdoodles
We learned early on that the key to enjoying our snickerdoodles longer was proper storage. We use airtight containers, often with a personal touch like a ribbon or a handwritten label, making the experience of reaching for a cookie even more special.
On a particularly productive baking day, we decided to freeze some dough balls for future use. It became a delightful tradition.
Now, we always have a batch ready in the freezer, perfect for unexpected guests or spontaneous baking sessions.
This trick has been passed down in our family for generations. My secret to keeping cookies soft is to throw a slice of bread in the cookie container. It’s a simple yet magical solution that has stood the test of time.
Snickerdoodle Recipe Video
We also made this video featuring our Snickerdoodle recipes!
Final Thoughts: Snickerdoodle
Baking snickerdoodles with my children has taught me the importance of cherishing simple moments and embracing creativity.
I hope that by sharing our recipe and stories, you too can create beautiful memories in your kitchen.