Snickerdoodle cookies have been a favorite treat for generations, loved for their soft, chewy texture and delightful cinnamon-sugar coating. But what if you don’t have cream of tartar on hand? No problem! With this snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar, you can still achieve the classic flavor and texture without compromising on taste.
Our easy-to-follow recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients, making it perfect for when you’re craving a quick homemade treat. These snickerdoodles are just as soft and delicious as the traditional version, with a hint of buttery sweetness and the signature cinnamon-sugar coating that makes them irresistible.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to enjoy a cozy dessert, this recipe ensures you won’t miss the cream of tartar. Get ready to bake a batch of cookies that are sure to become a family favorite!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- This recipe yields approximately 36 cookies, making it perfect for sharing or large gatherings.
- The total preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes for baking, for a total time of just 35 minutes.
- Eliminate the need for cream of tartar, a hard-to-find ingredient, by using a simple alternative that you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Enjoy the classic cinnamon-sugar flavor and soft, chewy texture of snickerdoodle cookies without any fuss.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing you to easily substitute different oils to suit your taste preferences.
Understanding Classic Snickerdoodles and Their Modern Twist
Snickerdoodles are a favorite cookie, loved for their tangy taste and soft chewiness. They traditionally use cream of tartar, which gives them a unique flavor. This ingredient also helps the cookies rise perfectly.
The Role of Cream of Tartar in Traditional Recipes
Cream of tartar is key in making snickerdoodles. It works with baking soda to make the cookies light and chewy. The tartness balances the sweetness, making snickerdoodles special.
Why This Alternative Recipe Works Better
This recipe replaces cream of tartar with apple cider vinegar. It gives the same tangy taste and helps the cookies rise. It also uses coconut oil instead of shortening, making the cookies fluffy without a coconut taste.
With these changes, you can make snickerdoodles easily without cream of tartar. This makes baking fun for everyone, keeping the classic taste and texture of snickerdoodles.
Essential Ingredients for No Cream of Tartar Snickerdoodles
Creating sugar cookie recipe without cream of tartar is easy. You’ll find all the needed ingredients in your pantry. This recipe skips cream of tartar, a special ingredient in traditional snickerdoodles.
The main ingredients are:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder (as a substitute for cream of tartar and baking soda)
- Salt
- Unsalted butter
- Coconut oil
- White granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Apple cider vinegar (as a unique twist)
For the cinnamon-sugar coating, you’ll need more white granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This simple list makes it easy to make sugar cookie recipe without cream of tartar at home.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups (225g) |
| Baking powder | 2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 160g |
| Coconut oil | 1/3 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 2/3 cup |
| Light brown sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Egg | 1 large, room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tsp |
| Cinnamon | 1 Tbsp |
| Granulated sugar (for coating) | 1/4 cup |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make irresistible sugar cookie recipe without cream of tartar.
The Secret to Perfect Texture: Butter and Coconut Oil Combination
The perfect texture in your easy snickerdoodle recipe comes from butter and coconut oil. Traditional recipes use butter and vegetable shortening. But adding coconut oil makes them even better.
Why Coconut Oil Makes a Difference
Coconut oil has no water, like vegetable shortening. It makes the dough light and airy. This results in soft, chewy centers and crisp edges. The mix of butter and coconut oil is what snickerdoodle lovers want.
Proper Temperature for Ingredients
For the best results, use room temperature butter and coconut oil in your easy snickerdoodle recipe. This ensures the dough is smooth and easy to work with. Cold ingredients can make the cookies dense and tough.
“The combination of butter and coconut oil contributes to the cookies’ fluffy texture. Coconut oil, having no water content, mimics the effect of vegetable shortening in traditional recipes.”
Mastering the right mix of butter and coconut oil will help you bake the most delicious easy snickerdoodle recipe. Your friends and family will love it.
Step-by-Step Mixing Method
Making the perfect snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar is a fun baking journey. The key to getting that soft and chewy texture is in how you mix. Begin by creaming the butter, coconut oil, and sugar until it’s light and fluffy, which takes about 3-5 minutes. This step adds air to the dough, making it tender.
Then, mix in the eggs, vanilla extract, and a bit of apple cider vinegar. The vinegar replaces the cream of tartar, adding a tangy flavor to your cookies.
- Cream together the butter, coconut oil, and sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- Add the room temperature eggs, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar, mixing until combined.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined.
- Chill the dough for at least one hour before shaping and baking.
Finally, add the dry ingredients slowly, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies. After mixing, chill the dough for at least an hour. This step lets the flavors blend and the dough firm up, ensuring soft and chewy cookies.
By following this mixing method, you’ll make snickerdoodle recipe no cream of tartar that will wow everyone.
Snickerdoodle Recipe Without Cream of Tartar
Baking delicious snickerdoodle cookies doesn’t need cream of tartar. Apple cider vinegar is a simple substitute. It gives the same tangy flavor and soft, chewy texture.
Apple Cider Vinegar as a Substitute
Use 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to replace cream of tartar. This acidic ingredient works with baking soda for the right leavening effect. It also adds the classic tangy taste that makes snickerdoodles so loved.
Measuring and Mixing Tips
For flour and salt, use weight measurements for better accuracy. Wet ingredients should be measured by volume. Mix dry ingredients well before adding them to the wet mix. This ensures even distribution of baking soda and apple cider vinegar.
| Ingredient | Metric | US Customary |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose Flour | 210g | 1 3/4 cups |
| Baking Soda | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | 1/2 tsp |
| Unsalted Butter, softened | 113g | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated Sugar | 200g | 1 cup |
| Large Eggs | 1 | 1 |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | 15ml | 1 tbsp |
With these easy substitutions and mixing tips, you can make classic snickerdoodle cookies without cream of tartar. You’ll get soft, chewy, and tangy cookies that are perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Mastering the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Getting the cinnamon sugar coating right is key to making classic easy snickerdoodle recipe cookies. This topping adds the famous flavor and gives the cookies their unique look.
To make the perfect cinnamon sugar coating, mix 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon with 50 grams (about 1/4 cup) of granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the color is even.
- Scoop the easy snickerdoodle recipe dough into balls, about 32 grams each.
- Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure it’s coated evenly on all sides.
- Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
This cinnamon to sugar ratio gives the cookies a perfect flavor balance. The coating is crunchy and complements the soft cookie inside. It also helps the cookies get their signature crackled look when baked.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 tablespoon |
| Granulated Sugar | 50 grams (1/4 cup) |
By using this simple cinnamon sugar coating method, you’ll make perfect easy snickerdoodle recipe cookies. The warm cinnamon and sweet sugar are what make these cookies so beloved.
Baking Techniques for Soft and Chewy Results
To get the perfect soft and chewy snickerdoodle cookies, you need to master the baking process. It’s all about finding the right balance between temperature and timing. Let’s look at the key techniques to make your cookies soft and chewy every time.
Temperature and Timing Guidelines
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). This high temperature is key for the right texture. Bake the cookies for 7-10 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. This slight underbaking is what keeps them chewy.
Visual Cues for Perfect Doneness
Watch your cookies closely while they bake. The edges should be lightly golden brown, and the centers should look a bit underdone. When you touch the tops, they should feel set but still soft. This is when you should take them out of the oven.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This extra time helps the centers set perfectly, giving you the soft and chewy texture you want.
| Baking Technique | Recommended Guideline |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 400°F (205°C) |
| Baking Time | 7-10 minutes |
| Cooling Time | 5 minutes on baking sheet |
By following these guidelines and using visual cues, you can make soft, chewy snickerdoodle cookies. Whether or not you need cream of tartar for snickerdoodles, you’ll get the results you dream of.
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Options
Enjoy your sugar cookies without cream of tartar with these easy tips. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps them soft and chewy.
Freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months for longer storage. When baking, add 2 minutes to the original time. Store them with a slice of bread to keep them soft.
Planning ahead is key for a steady supply of these tasty sugar cookie recipe without cream of tartar. Make the dough ahead and freeze it. Bake fresh cookies whenever you want. These tips let you enjoy homemade goodness anytime, without cream of tartar.
Proper storage and preparation are crucial for the best texture and freshness of your sugar cookie recipe without cream of tartar. Enjoy these treats anytime, as a snack or dessert.
Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues
Creating the perfect easy snickerdoodle recipe can take some practice. But don’t worry, we’ve got some tips to help. If your cookies spread too much, check that your ingredients are at the right temperature. Also, make sure the dough is chilled before baking.
If your snickerdoodles are too flat, it might be because of old baking powder. Always check the expiration date and replace it if needed. Adjusting the baking time can also make a difference. A bit longer in the oven for crisper cookies, or a bit shorter for softer ones.
Choosing the right butter is key. Use high-quality brands like Land O Lakes or European-style butter. This helps avoid flat cookies caused by moisture in cheaper butters. With a bit of trial and error, you’ll soon be baking perfect easy snickerdoodle recipe every time.
FAQ
What can I substitute for cream of tartar in snickerdoodles?
You can substitute cream of tartar with baking powder or a mixture of baking soda and an acid like lemon juice or vinegar for a similar tangy effect in snickerdoodles.
Why do snickerdoodles need cream of tartar?
Cream of tartar is essential in snickerdoodles for activating baking soda, giving the cookies their signature tang and soft texture while helping them rise properly.
What happens if I leave cream of tartar out of snickerdoodles?
If you omit cream of tartar, the snickerdoodles may not rise as well, resulting in denser cookies with a less tangy flavor and a different texture.
What happens if you don’t use cream of tartar in cookies?
Without cream of tartar, cookies may lack their typical texture, with less spread and a different flavor. They could also become chewier or more crumbly, depending on the recipe.
What is a good substitute for cream of tartar?
Good substitutes for cream of tartar include lemon juice, vinegar, or baking powder. These options can provide the acid needed to balance the baking soda in recipes.
Do I really need cream of tartar?
Cream of tartar is optional, but it improves texture and flavor, especially in recipes like snickerdoodles. You can use substitutes, but it might affect the final result.
What is the purpose of cream of tartar in traditional snickerdoodle recipes?
Cream of tartar adds a tangy flavor to snickerdoodles. It also helps the baking soda work, making the cookies light and fluffy.
How does this alternative recipe achieve the same results without cream of tartar?
This recipe uses apple cider vinegar instead. It gives the cookies a tangy taste and helps them rise without cream of tartar.
What are the key ingredients in this no cream of tartar snickerdoodle recipe?
The main ingredients are flour, baking powder, salt, and butter. You also need coconut oil, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and apple cider vinegar.
Why is the combination of butter and coconut oil important for the texture?
Butter and coconut oil make the cookies fluffy. Coconut oil, being dry, helps the dough stay light and airy like shortening.
How should the dough be prepared for best results?
Chill the dough for at least an hour before baking. This makes the dough firm, so the cookies won’t spread too much.
How much apple cider vinegar should be used as a substitute for cream of tartar?
Use 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. It adds the right amount of tanginess and flavor to the cookies.
What is the ideal ratio for the cinnamon-sugar coating?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cinnamon with 50 grams (1/4 cup) of sugar. This gives the cookies a perfect cinnamon-sugar taste and look.
What are the key tips for baking soft and chewy snickerdoodles?
Bake the cookies for 7-10 minutes. They should be soft in the middle. Let them cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How can cookies be stored for longer shelf life?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months. Add 2 minutes to baking time if frozen. Store with a slice of bread to keep cookies soft.
What are some common issues that can arise and how can they be addressed?
If cookies spread too much, check the dough’s temperature and chilling. For flat cookies, baking powder might be old. Adjust baking time for soft or crispy cookies. Use good-quality butter to avoid moisture issues.
Snickerdoodle Cookies (Without Cream of Tartar)
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring Spoons
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups 225g all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 160 g unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup coconut oil
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup granulated sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, coconut oil, and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt), mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
- In a separate bowl, mix cinnamon and ¼ cup granulated sugar for the coating.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 7-10 minutes, until the edges are golden and the centers are soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
