Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles: Quick, Soft & Festive Holiday Cookies 🎄✨

Table of Contents: Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles

The holidays are a time for warmth, joy, and indulgence, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of freshly baked Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles? These soft, chewy, and cinnamon-sugar-coated cookies are a timeless classic that brings comfort and nostalgia to every bite. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday parties, or simply as a sweet treat with your afternoon tea, these cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be foolproof and fun. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little bit of love, you’ll have a batch of irresistible snickerdoodles ready to impress your loved ones. Let’s dive into the magic of this classic snickerdoodle recipe and create memories that last a lifetime.


Introduction: Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles

There’s something undeniably special about a soft snickerdoodle recipe that makes it a holiday favorite. These cookies, with their tender centers, chewy edges, and delightful cinnamon sugar coating, are a true embodiment of comfort food. Their simplicity and timeless appeal make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy weeknight dessert.

The charm of these Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles lies in their ability to transport you back to simpler times. Perhaps you remember your grandmother baking them, or maybe you’ve always admired them at holiday potlucks. Now, it’s your turn to recreate that magic in your own kitchen.

This chewy snickerdoodle cookie recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace. And the best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients or advanced baking skills. Just follow this step-by-step guide, and you’ll have a batch of cookies that look and taste like they came straight from a professional bakery.


Alternate Names & Variations

While these cookies are known as Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles, they are also referred to by other names, depending on the region or personal preference. Some might call them “Cinnamon Sugar Cookies” or “Soft Cinnamon Cookies.”

If you’re looking to switch things up, try these variations:
Chocolate Snickerdoodles: Add chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent twist.
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles: Incorporate pumpkin puree and warm spices for a fall-inspired treat.
Peanut Butter Snickerdoodles: Mix in peanut butter for a nutty flavor profile.


Ingredients: Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles

Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles

To make these soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cookies.
  • 1 ½ teaspoons cream of tartar: The secret ingredient that gives snickerdoodles their signature tangy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
  • ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a rich, buttery base.
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with texture.
  • 2 large eggs: Binds the dough together.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar + 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: For rolling the cookies, giving them their classic coating.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.

2. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

3. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

4. Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

5. Bake the Cookies: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

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


Recipe Card Block

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 57 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories: Approx. 120 per cookie


Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles recipe works because it combines the perfect balance of ingredients and techniques. The cream of tartar gives the cookies their distinct tanginess, while the chilling step ensures they stay thick and chewy. Here are a few expert tips:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the dough come together smoothly.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a festive twist.


Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To freeze, place baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the dough balls for up to 2 months—just bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.


People Also Ask: Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles

Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles

What makes a snickerdoodle a snickerdoodle?

A snickerdoodle is defined by its soft, chewy texture and signature cinnamon-sugar coating. The use of cream of tartar gives it a slightly tangy flavor, setting it apart from other cookies.

Why are my snickerdoodles flat and crispy?

Flat and crispy snickerdoodles are often caused by over-creaming the butter and sugar or skipping the chilling step. Ensure your ingredients are measured correctly and chill the dough before baking.

Should you chill snickerdoodle dough before baking?

Yes, chilling the dough is essential. It prevents the cookies from spreading too much, ensuring they stay thick and chewy.

What is the secret to soft snickerdoodles?

The secret to soft snickerdoodles lies in the cream of tartar and not overbaking them. Remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are still soft.


Conclusion: Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles

These Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles are more than just cookies—they’re a celebration of tradition, love, and holiday spirit. Whether you’re baking them for a party, gifting them to a friend, or enjoying them by the fire, they’re sure to bring joy to everyone who tastes them.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let the aroma of cinnamon and sugar fill your home. Don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments below or tag us on social media. Happy baking!


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Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles

Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 36 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Easy Christmas Snickerdoodles are soft, chewy, and filled with festive cinnamon-sugar magic — perfect for holiday cookie trays!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar (for rolling)
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for rolling)
  • Red and green sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 1 ½ cups sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the 3 tbsp sugar and cinnamon.
  7. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
  8. Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
  9. Optionally, top with red and green sprinkles for a festive touch.
  10. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are set but centers are still soft.
  11. Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Notes

Don’t overbake — these cookies should be soft in the center. Perfect for gifting or leaving out for Santa!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 95
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: snickerdoodles, christmas cookies, easy holiday desserts, cinnamon sugar