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A plate of soft snickerdoodle cookies coated in cinnamon sugar with glasses of milk in the background.

Soft & Chewy Snickerdoodles

These soft and chewy snickerdoodles are the perfect combination of cinnamon-sugar flavor and tender texture, making them a beloved classic for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 48 cookies
Calories 92 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • ½ cup butter, softened
  • ½ cup vegetable shortening
  • cups sugar (for the dough)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp cream of tartar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt

Optional Ingredients

  • 1–2 tsp cornstarch (for extra softness)
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg (subtle warmth)
  • a tiny pinch flaky salt (on top after baking) for sweet-salty contrast

Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

  • 2 Tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Set out two cookie sheets. If your trays tend to run hot, line them with parchment for gentler browning.

Mixing / Assembling

  • In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, shortening, and 1½ cups sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs and vanilla, then beat until smooth and combined.
  • Sprinkle in the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together, avoiding overmixing.

Cooking / Baking

  • In a small bowl, stir together the 2 tablespoons sugar and cinnamon.
  • Scoop generous tablespoons of dough, roll into balls, and coat in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  • Place cookies about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
  • Bake for 8–10 minutes until set but still soft, with edges turning lightly golden.

Resting / Finishing

  • Cool cookies on the tray for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Notes

For the best texture, pull cookies when they look set but not firm. Use fresh cinnamon for enhanced flavor.
Keyword cinnamon-sugar, Classic dessert, Cookies, holiday baking, snickerdoodles