Indulge in Sweet Bliss: Our Favorite Snickerdoodle Recipes
Snickerdoodles have been a favorite in American households for decades. This classic cookie is known for its crunchy exterior, soft interior, and cinnamon-sugar coating. The best part? They’re incredibly simple to whip up, making them the perfect cookie for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them with a glass of milk or package them up as a gift, these snickerdoodle recipes are sure to impress.
Classic Snickerdoodle Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 2 tsp cream of tartar
– ½ tsp salt
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the coating:
– 3 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Directions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add in the eggs, one at a time, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
3. Gradually add in the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1 ½ inch balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
6. Place the coated dough balls onto a greased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Health Benefits
While snickerdoodles aren’t exactly a health food, there are some benefits to indulging in this sweet treat in moderation. Cinnamon, the star ingredient of a snickerdoodle, has been shown to have numerous health benefits. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, cinnamon is high in antioxidants and can help fight against damage caused by free radicals.
When making snickerdoodles at home, using high-quality ingredients and limiting the amount of sugar can make them a slightly healthier treat. Substituting some of the all-purpose flour for healthier alternatives such as almond flour or whole wheat flour can also boost the nutritional value of the cookies.
FAQs
Q: Can I refrigerate the dough overnight?
A: Yes, refrigerating the dough can actually result in a better cookie. The flavors meld together and the dough becomes firmer, making it easier to roll and form into balls.
Q: Can I freeze snickerdoodles?
A: Yes, baked snickerdoodles freeze well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: You can, but it may affect the overall taste of the cookies. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe and results in a more consistent flavor.
Q: Can I omit the cream of tartar?
A: Cream of tartar is what gives snickerdoodles their signature tangy flavor and helps activate the baking soda. Omitting it may result in a different texture and taste.
Q: Can I use a different coating besides cinnamon and sugar?
A: Absolutely! You can experiment with different coatings such as cocoa powder and powdered sugar, or even add in different flavors such as lemon or pumpkin spice.
In conclusion, snickerdoodles are a beloved classic for good reason. With their simple ingredients and delicious cinnamon-sugar coating, they’re a favorite among cookie lovers young and old. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, these recipes are sure to be a hit.
