As I slipped a tray of freshly baked Christmas Snickerdoodles into the oven, the enticing aroma of cinnamon began to waft through my kitchen, instantly brightening my holiday spirit. These soft and chewy cookies are a delightful centerpiece for any festive gathering, adding a touch of warmth to cookie exchanges and family celebrations alike. With their simple ingredients and customizable toppings— like cheerful sprinkles in seasonal shades—making these cookies feels like a joyous holiday tradition. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can whip up a batch ahead of your festivities for last-minute surprises. Curious about how to create your own batch of these merry treats? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Snickerdoodles So Special?
Soft, Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience, making them a cozy holiday favorite.
Festive Appeal: The colorful sugar sprinkles bring joy and holiday cheer, perfect for gatherings or cookie exchanges.
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, making these cookies at home is as easy as can be.
Customizable: Feel free to swap sprinkles for granulated sugar for a classic twist, or experiment with spices like nutmeg to elevate the flavor.
Freezer-Friendly: Bake in advance and store them in the freezer for quick treats when unexpected guests arrive.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy these delightful snickerdoodles with a warm glass of milk or cozy hot cocoa for the ultimate holiday indulgence. Want to explore more festive recipes? Check out Christmas Deviled Eggs for a savory treat or whip up some Christmas Tree Sandwiches for your holiday spread!
Christmas Snickerdoodles Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Butter (1 cup / 226 g) – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup / 149 g) – Provides sweetness and impacts the cookie’s spreading; can be substituted with additional brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Brown Sugar (½ cup / 106 g) – Adds moisture and depth; dark brown sugar can enhance the molasses taste.
• Eggs (2 large) – Acts as a binder while adding moisture; ensure they’re room temperature for better blending.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Enhances flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 cups / 360 g) – Provides structure; measure by weight for accuracy or use a spoon-and-level method if using cups.
• Cream of Tartar (2 tsp) – Contributes a tangy flavor; can be swapped with an equal amount of lemon juice or vinegar.
• Baking Soda (1 tsp) – A leavening agent that helps cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal activation.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness, making all flavors pop.
For the Topping
• Colorful Sugar Sprinkles (¼ cup / 48 g) – Adds festive appeal; granulated sugar makes for a classic touch instead.
• Cinnamon (2 tsp) – Infuses warmth and spice; add extra ground cinnamon for an enhanced flavor profile.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Snickerdoodles
Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the cookie dough, ensuring your Christmas Snickerdoodles will be soft and chewy once baked.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the two room temperature eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed until fully combined, approximately 1 minute, ensuring the mixture is smooth and creamy. This not only adds flavor to your cookies but also helps bind all the ingredients together perfectly.
Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour. Once well-combined, gradually add this dry mix to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the Christmas Snickerdoodles.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for optimum flavor and texture. Chilling the dough is essential; it minimizes spreading during baking, resulting in perfectly puffy and chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. This way, your cookies will come out golden-brown and easy to transfer.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Once the dough is chilled, scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Next, roll each ball in a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar (or colorful sprinkles if desired) for that classic Snickerdoodle finish. Place the rolled dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookie dough in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden and the centers look puffy. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking to ensure your Christmas Snickerdoodles stay soft and chewy.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the sheets before transferring them to wire racks. This cooling process allows the cookies to set properly. Once cooled, you can serve your delicious Christmas Snickerdoodles, perfect for holiday gatherings!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Snickerdoodles are fantastic for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps, then cover and refrigerate the dough. This chilling process not only enhances the flavor but also prevents spreading during baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the dough into balls, rolling them in your preferred topping before placing them on a lined baking sheet. If you want even more convenience, baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring they remain just as delicious as when they were first made!
Storage Tips for Christmas Snickerdoodles
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them soft and chewy.
Fridge: If you want to keep them fresher for longer, you can also store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies or cookie dough for up to 3 months. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bags, and label with the date.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat the cookies in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Enjoy your delightful Christmas Snickerdoodles!
Christmas Snickerdoodles Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Snickerdoodles by making delightful twists on the classic recipe.
- Classic Sugar: Swap colorful sprinkles for plain granulated sugar for a timeless look and taste.
- Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to the dough for a warm, festive flavor boost.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute half the butter with coconut oil or a non-dairy butter alternative for vegan-friendly snickerdoodles.
- Chocolate Chip: Mix in a half cup of chocolate chips for a fun surprise in each soft bite—who can resist chocolate?
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and a delightful toasty finish.
- Maple Sweetener: Replace granulated sugar with maple sugar for a unique flavor twist that adds depth to your cookies.
- Extra Cinnamon: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon into the sugar mixture for rolling to amplify that cozy, holiday flavor.
- Fruity Variation: Toss in dried cranberries or chopped dried cherries for a tart contrast to the sweet and chewy cookie.
Looking for more festive treats to complement your baking extravaganza? Don’t miss out on our delightful Cheesy Christmas Tree to impress your guests or whip up some scrumptious Christmas Tree Pizza for a savory twist on holiday fun!
What to Serve with Christmas Snickerdoodles?
Indulge in the blissful pairing of flavors and textures to create a memorable holiday experience.
- Creamy Hot Cocoa: A rich, chocolatey drink that adds warmth and comfort, enhancing the sweetness of the cookies.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This fragrant drink, with hints of cinnamon and clove, complements the snickerdoodle’s flavors beautifully, invoking holiday cheer.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold contrast to warm cookies creates a delightful balance; a scoop melts perfectly atop a snickerdoodle.
- Chewy Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced texture and festive flair create a harmonious holiday platter, inviting everyone to indulge.
- Festive Fruit Salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and a pop of color, balancing the rich, sweet cookies.
- Classic Milk: Whether whole or almond, a cold glass of milk is a nostalgic pairing, perfect for dunking and enjoying the cookies.
Expert Tips for Christmas Snickerdoodles
- Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to weigh your flour; inaccurate measurements can lead to dense cookies, compromising the chewy texture of your Christmas Snickerdoodles.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature; this promotes better integration and a smoother dough for delightful cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Do not skip the chilling step! It’s essential for preventing excessive spreading, ensuring your cookies come out thick and chewy.
- Mind the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking. Overbaking can lead to dryness; aim for lightly browned edges while the centers remain soft.
- Enhance Flavor: Feel free to experiment with an extra pinch of cinnamon or add a hint of nutmeg to the dough for a festive twist to your Christmas Snickerdoodles.
- Storage Secret: To maintain freshness, store baked cookies in a sealed container with a slice of bread; this keeps them soft and delicious for days.
Christmas Snickerdoodles Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use for Christmas Snickerdoodles?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter for optimal control over the cookie’s saltiness, and make sure it’s at room temperature. This will allow for better mixing and a smoother dough, resulting in that delightful soft texture we all love.
How should I store leftover Christmas Snickerdoodles?
To keep your snickerdoodles fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also add a slice of bread inside the container to maintain their soft and chewy texture. If you’re planning to keep them longer, they can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze Christmas Snickerdoodles?
Yes! You can freeze both the baked cookies and the cookie dough. For baked cookies, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. For the dough, shape it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer the frozen dough balls into a sealed container. To bake frozen dough, simply add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
What if my dough is too sticky or dry?
If your snickerdoodle dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to handle. If it’s too dry, you can add a teaspoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Remember, dough should be soft but not overly sticky!
Are Christmas Snickerdoodles safe for people with allergies?
Be mindful of common allergens in this recipe: it contains gluten from the flour and dairy from the butter. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free options, use plant-based butter and ensure your other ingredients (like the baking soda) are also dairy-free. Be sure to check labels to avoid any cross-contamination!
Can I use alternatives for cream of tartar?
Certainly! Cream of tartar can be substituted with an equal amount of lemon juice or white vinegar. This will impart a similar tanginess to your Christmas Snickerdoodles, ensuring they remain soft and chewy while baking.
Deliciously Soft Christmas Snickerdoodles for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy for about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the two room temperature eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture, beating on medium speed until fully combined, approximately 1 minute.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt, then gradually add this dry mix to the wet mixture.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for optimum flavor and texture.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Once the dough is chilled, scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll into balls, then roll in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar or colorful sprinkles.
- Bake the cookie dough in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
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