There’s something magical about the holiday season—twinkling lights, cozy nights, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. Among the array of festive treats, Christmas Snickerdoodles stand out as timeless classics. With their soft centers, slightly crisp edges, and a delightful coating of cinnamon-sugar, these cookies are pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re gifting them to loved ones, setting them out for Santa, or savoring them with a warm cup of cocoa, these Snickerdoodles are sure to bring holiday cheer.
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Christmas Snickerdoodles
Cinnamon-kissed and sugar-dusted, these Christmas Snickerdoodles bring holiday magic to every bite! 🎅✨ #ChristmasCookies #SnickerdoodleJoy #HolidayBaking #CinnamonDreams #FestiveTreats #SweetSeason #BakeTheHolidays #CookieLoversUnite #MerryAndDelicious #HolidayCheerInEveryBite
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flourForms the base of the cookie, providing structure and balance.
- 2 tsp baking powderEnsures the cookies rise just enough for that soft, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 tsp saltEnhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup salted butter, softenedAdds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- 2 cups white sugar (divided)Sweetens the dough and creates the signature cinnamon-sugar coating.
- 2 large eggsBind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookie’s tender crumb.
- 2 tsp cinnamonProvides the warm, spicy kick that defines Snickerdoodles.
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmegAdds a subtle festive undertone, perfect for the holidays.
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature when your cookies are ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg. Sifting not only combines the ingredients but also helps aerate the flour for a lighter cookie. Set the bowl aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with 1 1/2 cups of sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial for creating the cookie’s tender texture.
4. Incorporate the Eggs
Beat in the eggs, one at a time. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain the dough’s consistency.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Continue until the dough is fully combined. The result should be a soft yet pliable dough that holds its shape.
6. Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. This fragrant coating is what gives Snickerdoodles their signature look and flavor.
7. Shape the Dough
Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into balls about 1 3/4 inches in diameter. Coat each ball generously in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring all sides are covered.
8. Arrange and Bake
Place the coated dough balls on a baking sheet, leaving about 3 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to maintain the cookies’ soft centers.
9. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set without becoming too firm.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Even Coating: Roll each dough ball thoroughly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to create a uniform crust.
- Avoid Overbaking: Snickerdoodles should be taken out of the oven just as they begin to turn golden around the edges. They will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Let’s dive into what makes these cookies so special, how to perfect them at home, and how to customize them for your holiday traditions.
Ingredients for Christmas Snickerdoodles
Creating these holiday favorites doesn’t require an extensive list of ingredients. With pantry staples and a few festive spices, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Forms the base of the cookie, providing structure and balance. - 2 tsp baking powder
Ensures the cookies rise just enough for that soft, fluffy texture. - 1/2 tsp salt
Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness. - 1 cup salted butter, softened
Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality. - 2 cups white sugar (divided)
Sweetens the dough and creates the signature cinnamon-sugar coating. - 2 large eggs
Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cookie’s tender crumb. - 2 tsp cinnamon
Provides the warm, spicy kick that defines Snickerdoodles. - 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
Adds a subtle festive undertone, perfect for the holidays.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a foolproof guide to making the best Christmas Snickerdoodles. Follow these steps, and your cookies will turn out perfectly every time!
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature when your cookies are ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg. Sifting not only combines the ingredients but also helps aerate the flour for a lighter cookie. Set the bowl aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with 1 1/2 cups of sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial for creating the cookie’s tender texture.
4. Incorporate the Eggs
Beat in the eggs, one at a time. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain the dough’s consistency.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Continue until the dough is fully combined. The result should be a soft yet pliable dough that holds its shape.
6. Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup sugar with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. This fragrant coating is what gives Snickerdoodles their signature look and flavor.
7. Shape the Dough
Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into balls about 1 3/4 inches in diameter. Coat each ball generously in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring all sides are covered.
8. Arrange and Bake
Place the coated dough balls on a baking sheet, leaving about 3 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to maintain the cookies’ soft centers.
9. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set without becoming too firm.
The Flavor Experience
Imagine biting into one of these cookies. The first thing you’ll notice is the sweet-spicy aroma of cinnamon, followed by the buttery richness of the dough. The texture is a delightful contrast—soft and chewy on the inside, with a slightly crisp sugar crust on the outside. The hint of nutmeg adds a layer of warmth, evoking the cozy essence of the holiday season.
Tips for Perfect Snickerdoodles
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
- Even Coating: Roll each dough ball thoroughly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to create a uniform crust.
- Avoid Overbaking: Snickerdoodles should be taken out of the oven just as they begin to turn golden around the edges. They will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add a Festive Touch: Mix in red and green sprinkles with the cinnamon-sugar coating for a holiday-themed twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
- Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Chai Spices: Enhance the cookie by adding ground ginger and cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Serving Suggestions
- For Gifting: Pack these cookies in festive tins lined with parchment paper. Add a handwritten note for a personal touch.
- Holiday Platter: Serve alongside other holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, or hot cocoa bombs.
- Dessert Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm spiced latte or a glass of eggnog.
Why You’ll Love These Christmas Snickerdoodles
Christmas Snickerdoodles are more than just cookies—they’re a cherished holiday tradition. Their nostalgic flavors, simple preparation, and versatility make them a must-have for any celebration. Plus, they’re a surefire way to bring smiles to friends and family.
Whether you’re baking these for a cozy night in or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are guaranteed to spread joy. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the magic of Christmas Snickerdoodles fill your home! 🎄🍪