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What kind of recipe is it?
Snickerdoodle Christmas Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic snickerdoodle, perfect for the holiday season.
These soft and chewy cookies are characterized by their warm cinnamon-sugar coating and a hint of cream of tartar that gives them a unique flavor.
With their festive appeal and comforting taste, they’re ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or as a sweet treat for family and friends.
This recipe is aimed at home bakers of all skill levels who want to spread joy through delicious holiday treats.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¾ cups (360 grams) |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Cream of tartar | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (226 grams), softened |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ½ cups (300 grams) |
| Packed brown sugar | ½ cup (100 grams) |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 3 tablespoons |
| Additional granulated sugar for rolling | ¼ cup (50 grams) |
This detailed ingredients list guarantees that you have everything you need to create scrumptious Snickerdoodle Christmas Cookies!
Cooking Steps
- Preheat your oven to 190 °C (375 °F) and position the rack in the middle of the oven.
- Line two baking sheets (approximately 30 x 40 cm/12 x 16 inches) with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups (360 grams) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 2 teaspoons cream of tartar, and ½ teaspoon salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup (226 grams) softened unsalted butter with 1 ½ cups (300 grams) granulated sugar and ½ cup (100 grams) packed brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium-high speed for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing on medium speed until fully incorporated after each addition. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Don’t overmix; the dough should be soft.
- In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon with ¼ cup (50 grams) additional granulated sugar for rolling.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough into 3-4 cm (1-1.5 inches) balls. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat completely.
- Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. The cookies should look puffy and slightly cracked.
- Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy the cookies once cooled; they should be soft in the center and slightly crisp on the edges, releasing an enticing aroma of cinnamon and sugar.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Snickerdoodles: Add 1 cup (180 grams) of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, chocolatey twist.
- Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles: Substitute ½ cup (120 ml) of the butter with ½ cup (120 grams) of pumpkin puree and add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for a festive fall flavor.
- Vegan Snickerdoodles: Replace the butter with 1 cup (240 ml) of coconut oil or vegan butter and use flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water) in place of the eggs for a dairy and egg-free option.
- Gluten-Free Snickerdoodles: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend (360 grams) and confirm all other ingredients are gluten-free certified for a safe treat.
Tips on plating and presentation
Although the taste of snickerdoodle Christmas cookies is the highlight, how you present them can elevate the entire experience.
I love using a festive plate or a simple wooden board to display my cookies. Wrapping them in clear cellophane with a beautiful ribbon makes them perfect for gifting. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top, or place a star anise or cinnamon stick beside them.
Enhance the holiday theme by adding some greenery or small ornaments around the plate. When I serve them at gatherings, I stack a few cookies in varying heights to create visual interest. This way, the warmth and charm of the cookies shine through, making them even more inviting!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
When I think about serving snickerdoodle Christmas cookies, pairing them with complementary dishes can enhance the overall holiday experience.
I love to serve them alongside a rich, velvety chocolate cake, as the chocolate balances the cinnamon sweetness perfectly. A warm apple crisp is another great option; its fruity flavor contrasts beautifully with the cookies’ soft texture.
For a lighter touch, a cheese platter featuring creamy brie or tangy goat cheese works well. It offers a savory element that rounds out the sweetness.
I also find that popcorn drizzled with caramel adds a fun crunch and brings in a cozy holiday feel. Each pairing creates a delightful spread that’ll impress my friends and family during our festive gatherings.
What drinks can I pair it with?
What drinks can elevate the enjoyment of snickerdoodle Christmas cookies? I’ve found a few perfect pairings that really bring out their flavors.
A warm cup of spiced apple cider complements the cinnamon sugar beautifully, making each bite even more magical.
If you’re in the mood for something festive, a glass of eggnog works wonders, with its creamy texture and nutmeg hint.
For those who prefer a lighter option, a vanilla-infused cold brew coffee balances the cookie sweetness nicely.
Don’t forget about milk—nothing beats the classic pairing!
Chocolate milk is also a fun twist that kids adore.
Whatever your choice, these drinks will enhance your cookie experience and bring holiday cheer to your gatherings. Enjoy every sip and bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze the Snickerdoodle Cookie Dough?
Yes, you can freeze snickerdoodle cookie dough! I often scoop it into balls and store them in an airtight container. When I’m ready, I just bake them straight from the freezer. It’s super convenient!
How Long Do Baked Cookies Last at Room Temperature?
Baked cookies usually last about a week at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. I like keeping mine in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and avoid any unwanted moisture. Enjoy!
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Tartar?
You can use lemon juice or white vinegar as a substitute for cream of tartar. If you’re in a pinch, just mix one teaspoon of either with a teaspoon of baking soda to achieve similar results.
Are Snickerdoodles Gluten-Free?
No, traditional snickerdoodles aren’t gluten-free because they use all-purpose flour. However, I’ve made delicious gluten-free versions by substituting with almond or coconut flour. You’d be surprised at how good they can be!
Can I Make These Cookies Vegan-Friendly?
Absolutely, I can make these cookies vegan-friendly! I substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use almond milk instead of dairy. It’ll still taste amazing, I promise you won’t miss the eggs!