Stepping into my kitchen during the holiday season is like unearthing a treasure chest of smells and memories. The air fills with a mix of cinnamon and warmth, making it impossible not to smile. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Easy Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies, a festive delight that’s sure to become a cherished tradition. These cookies are not only simple to make, but they also bring that nostalgic feeling of family gatherings right into your home. Picture a batch fresh out of the oven, the perfect blend of soft and chewy textures with that heavenly cinnamon-sugar coating. Best of all, they can easily be customized with flavor twists, making them a versatile treat to brighten up any holiday table. So, are you ready to take a bite of nostalgia and whip up a batch of these delightful Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles? Let’s dive in!
Why are Snickerdoodles a holiday favorite?
Nostalgic Flavors: These cookies evoke memories of family gatherings, filling your home with warmth.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, even novice bakers can whip up a delightful batch.
Endless Variations: Mix it up by playing with sugars or spices, like nutmeg, for a unique touch.
Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are ideal for holiday parties or gifts, sure to impress friends and family.
Texture Paradise: Soft inside with a slightly crunchy cinnamon-sugar exterior makes every bite a treat!
This recipe for Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles will quickly become a beloved addition to your holiday traditions!
Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the perfect structure to these Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise for a delightfully soft texture.
• Cream of Tartar – Creates that iconic Snickerdoodle chewiness; use baking powder as a substitute if needed.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm, cozy flavor that’s a hallmark of Snickerdoodles.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness effectively, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Unsalted Butter – Offers richness; feel free to substitute it with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough, but brown sugar can give a deeper taste.
• Eggs – Binds everything together while adding moisture; for a vegan alternative, consider flax eggs or applesauce.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the dough with an inviting aroma.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
• Granulated Sugar – Forms the sweet base for rolling the cookie dough balls.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds a delightful spiciness to the outer layer, making each bite extra special.
Use this ingredient list to gather your supplies and prepare yourself for a baking experience that will evoke togetherness and joy in your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy removal and cleanup later. This warm-up time is essential as it allows the cookies to bake evenly, giving them that perfect, slightly crinkled top.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step is crucial for ensuring that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Set the bowl aside as you move on to the next step, allowing the dry ingredients to mingle.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, combine the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat these together on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The goal here is to incorporate air into the butter, which will help your Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles achieve a soft and tender texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure everything is fully incorporated. Once both eggs are added, pour in the vanilla extract for an aromatic touch. Continue mixing until the batter is smooth, creating a rich base for your cookie dough.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the bowl of dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to come together without becoming tough. Once combined, the dough should be soft and slightly sticky, ready for the next flavorful step.
Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a separate small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating. The fragrant combination is what makes these Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles extra special, providing a delightful crunch on the outside. Set this mixture aside until you’re ready to roll the dough.
Step 7: Form the Cookie Dough Balls
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out the dough and roll it into balls. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter for each cookie. Once rolled, coat each ball generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they are well covered before placing them on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Carefully place the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. Watch for them to puff up and develop slightly crinkled tops; they should be just set around the edges but slightly soft in the center. A golden hue is the perfect signal that they are ready for removal.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
After baking, let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This small resting period helps them firm up without losing that delightful softness. Serve your warm Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles with a glass of milk or hot cocoa, and enjoy the festive spirit they bring!
Expert Tips for Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles
Accurate Measurements: Ensure precise ingredient measurements to avoid flat cookies; too much butter can cause excessive spreading.
Chill the Dough: Consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps cookies hold their shape during baking.
Experiment with Sugars: For a richer flavor, try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in your Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated to maintain a soft and tender texture.
Check for Doneness: Bake until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool, perfecting their chewiness!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop and roll the dough balls, coat them in cinnamon sugar, and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. If you'd like to plan even further ahead, freeze the dough for up to three months—just let the frozen dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking. When it's time to enjoy these delightful cookies, bake them straight from the fridge or freezer (adjusting the baking time slightly), ensuring your treats are just as soft and chewy as if they were made fresh that day! This way, you can savor holiday memories without the stress of last-minute baking.
What to Serve with Easy Christmas Snickerdoodle Cookies
These delightful treats are perfect for spreading holiday cheer, making any gathering feel extra special.
- Glass of Milk: A classic pairing, the creamy richness of milk complements the sweetness and warmth of Snickerdoodles perfectly.
- Hot Cocoa: Indulge in a cozy mug of rich hot cocoa; the chocolatey-flavored drink enhances the spiced notes of the cookies.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
- Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, spiced notes of cider bring out the cinnamon in the cookies, creating a heartwarming seasonal delight.
- Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty, caramel flavor of pecan pie bars offers a delightful richness that mingles beautifully with Snickerdoodles.
- Fruit Platter: Fresh, vivid fruits like apples and pears add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, balancing the dessert table.
- Cheesecake Bites: The creamy, tangy profile of cheesecakes can create a decadent dessert tray that pairs wonderfully with these cookies' textures.
- Holiday Punch: A festive punch, with its fizzy goodness and fruity elements, can elevate your gathering while perfectly complementing the flavors of Snickerdoodles.
- Cinnamon Roll Muffins: Create a cozy brunch atmosphere by serving these chewy cookies alongside soft, cinnamon-spiced muffins for double the comfort.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the holiday spirit by doubling down on festive flavors; pairing the soft Snickerdoodles with spicy gingerbread is pure bliss.
Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles Variations
Feel free to elevate your Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles with these delightful twists that will surely captivate your taste buds!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a safe and delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Nutmeg Infusion: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for a warm, aromatic twist that enhances the festive flavor.
- Coconut Oil: Substitute unsalted butter with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free version that brings a slight tropical hint.
- Chocolate Chips: Mix in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an indulgent touch that perfectly complements the cinnamon sweetness.
- Maple Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for maple sugar to impart a unique, rich sweetness that adds depth to your Snickerdoodles.
- Cinnamon Swirl: From a separate dough, roll a cinnamon-sugar swirl into the dough balls for extra layers of flavor and visual appeal.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper into the cinnamon-sugar mix for a surprising kick with each bite.
- Lemon Zest: Brighten up the flavor profile by adding a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus note.
Each variation offers a chance to personalize your Snickerdoodles, turning this traditional treat into something uniquely yours. Whether for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these twists will surely be met with cheers. And don't forget, if you're craving more cookie inspiration, check out these delightful holiday treats like Gingerbread Cookies or Peppermint Bark for even more flavors to enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper for up to 1 week to keep them soft and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, place cookies in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, though they might lose some softness.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked cookie dough balls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, just add an extra minute to baking time.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies later, heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes until warm and inviting.
Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! All-purpose flour is the go-to choice for these Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles, providing the right structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a gluten-free flour blend can be used, but make sure it has xanthan gum for best results!
How should I store leftover cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper at room temperature for up to 1 week. This method helps maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can! To freeze cookie dough, scoop it into balls and wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped balls in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra minute to the baking time!
My cookies turned out flat; what went wrong?
Common culprits for flat cookies are often related to ingredients! Ensure you're measuring accurately, especially the butter—too much can lead to spreading. Also, make sure to cream the butter and sugar well to incorporate air, and if you chilled the dough beforehand, it should help maintain the cookie’s shape.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Very much! For a vegan version of Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg, let it sit until gelatinous) or unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg). Use vegan butter to maintain that delicious richness while keeping it dairy-free!
What can I do if I don't have cream of tartar?
If you find yourself without cream of tartar, don’t worry! You can substitute with baking powder instead, using a portion, as it contains cream of tartar already. For each teaspoon of cream of tartar, use 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and omit the baking soda from the recipe. Happy baking!
Delicious Christmas Cookies Snickerdoodles Everyone Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Beat together butter and granulated sugar in a stand mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then add vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- In a bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating.
- Roll the dough into balls, coat in cinnamon sugar, and place on baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set and tops are slightly crinkled.
- Let cookies rest for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool.
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