Irresistibly Easy Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar

If you love snickerdoodles but don’t have cream of tartar in your pantry, don’t worry! Making snickerdoodles no cream of tartar is easy, and the result is just as delicious as the original. With simple substitutions and a few tips, you can bake soft, chewy cookies with the signature cinnamon-sugar coating that defines this classic treat. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about making snickerdoodles without cream of tartar, from ingredients to common mistakes and creative variations.

What Are Snickerdoodles?

The Classic Snickerdoodle Cookie

Snickerdoodles are soft, chewy cookies rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking. They are known for their slightly tangy flavor, typically created by cream of tartar, and their warm, spiced aroma.

Why Skip Cream of Tartar?

Cream of tartar is a common ingredient in traditional snickerdoodle recipes, but it’s not always readily available. Luckily, substitutes like lemon juice or baking powder can achieve a similar texture and flavor. This makes snickerdoodles no cream of tartar a convenient and accessible recipe.

Ingredients for Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar

To make snickerdoodles without cream of tartar, you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Recipe for Snickerdoodles No Cream of Tartar

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar for the coating.

Step 7: Shape and Coat the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly crackled. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Benefits of Skipping Cream of Tartar

1. Accessibility: Lemon juice or baking powder are common substitutes that are often already in your kitchen.
2. Ease of Preparation: No need to hunt for specialty ingredients.
3. Taste Consistency: Substitutes effectively replicate the tangy flavor cream of tartar provides.

Tips for Perfect Snickerdoodles no Cream of Tartar

1. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a precise science, so ensure your measurements are exact.
2. Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes before shaping.
3. Avoid Overmixing: Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
4. Use Fresh Cinnamon: Fresh, high-quality cinnamon enhances the cookies’ flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking the Cookies

snickerdoodles no cream of tartar should be soft in the center. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are set but the centers appear slightly underbaked.

Skipping the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

The coating is essential for the classic snickerdoodle flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step!

Using Cold Butter

Softened butter ensures the dough mixes evenly and results in a smooth texture.

Creative Variations of Snickerdoodles

Chocolate Chip Snickerdoodles

Fold ½ cup of chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet twist.

Spiced Snickerdoodles

Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.

Gluten-Free Snickerdoodles

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Why You Should Try Snickerdoodles no Cream of Tartar

Making snickerdoodles no cream of tartar is a game-changer for those who don’t have specialty ingredients on hand. This simplified recipe offers the same soft, chewy texture and sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor as the classic version. Perfect for busy bakers, beginners, or anyone looking for a quick, crowd-pleasing treat.

Snickerdoodles no Cream of Tartar: A Simple, Delicious Recipe

Snickerdoodles are known for their soft texture and sweet cinnamon-sugar coating. But what happens when you don’t have cream of tartar? Don’t worry! You can still make delicious snickerdoodles without cream of tartar by using easy substitutes like baking powder or lemon juice. In this guide, we’ll show you how to create the perfect snickerdoodles without missing a beat.

What Makes Snickerdoodles Special?

Snickerdoodles stand out for their slight tangy flavor and chewy texture, thanks to the traditional use of cream of tartar. However, skipping cream of tartar doesn’t mean skipping on taste. These cookies retain their soft centers and crispy edges, making them a favorite for any occasion.

For more cookie inspiration, check out snickerdoodle cheesecake bars and snickerdoodle muffins for delightful twists on this classic flavor.

How to Make Snickerdoodles no Cream of Tartar

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (substitute for cream of tartar)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the cinnamon-sugar coating:

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Shape and Coat: Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Combine cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl, then roll each ball in the mixture to coat evenly.
6. Bake: Place the coated balls on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden.

For another exciting dessert, try snickerdoodle cheesecake for a creamy, spiced treat.

Tips for Perfect Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and soda ensure the best texture and rise.
2. Don’t Overbake: Snickerdoodles should have soft centers when removed from the oven; they’ll firm up as they cool.
3. Chill the Dough: If your dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 20 minutes before rolling.

External Resources

• The Science of Baking Substitutions – King Arthur Baking
• Perfect Cookie Techniques – Bon Appétit
• Cookie Troubleshooting Guide – Serious Eats

Conclusion

Making snickerdoodles no cream of tartar is easier than you think, and the results are just as delicious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this recipe will deliver soft, flavorful cookies with that iconic cinnamon-sugar coating.

FAQs

1. Can I Use Baking Powder Instead of Cream of Tartar and Baking Soda?

Yes, you can replace cream of tartar and baking soda with baking powder in snickerdoodle recipes.
Benefit: Simplifies the recipe while maintaining the desired texture and flavor.

• How It Works: Baking powder already contains a combination of an acid (like cream of tartar) and a base (baking soda), so it acts as a leavening agent.
• Measurement: Substitute 1 teaspoon of baking powder for every 1 teaspoon of baking soda and cream of tartar combined.
• Flavor Impact: While the cookies may lose some of the tanginess cream of tartar provides, the cinnamon-sugar coating ensures they are still flavorful.

This adjustment makes it easier to bake snickerdoodles no cream of tartar, especially if you don’t have specialty ingredients on hand.

Baking snickerdoodles without cream of tartar becomes simpler with this modification, particularly if you lack specialized ingredients.

2. How Do I Store Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar?

Proper storage keeps snickerdoodles fresh and maintains their chewy texture.
Benefit: Reduces waste and ensures cookies stay delicious for days.

• Room Temperature Storage: Store snickerdoodles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Add a piece of bread to the container to retain moisture.
• Freezing Tips: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

This method ensures you can enjoy fresh snickerdoodles anytime without compromising their flavor or texture.

3. Can I Make Snickerdoodle Dough Ahead of Time?

Yes, snickerdoodle dough can be prepared in advance for convenience.
Benefit: Saves time when baking for events or busy schedules.

• Refrigeration: Prepare the dough and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before shaping and baking.
• Freezing Dough Balls: Roll the dough into balls, coat them in cinnamon sugar, and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag.
• Baking From Frozen: Place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake for 1–2 minutes longer than the original recipe calls for.

Preparing the dough ahead streamlines the baking process, ensuring fresh cookies are ready whenever you need them.

4. How Can I Customize Snickerdoodles no Cream of Tartar?

Customizing snickerdoodles allows you to explore new flavors and textures.
Benefit: Adds variety and keeps your baking creative.

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir ½ cup of chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet twist.
• Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
• Create a Festive Look: Use colored sugar in the cinnamon-sugar coating for holidays or special occasions.
• Drizzle with Icing: Add a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for an extra layer of sweetness.

These variations let you transform a classic recipe into something uniquely yours, making snickerdoodles no cream of tartar suitable for any occasion.

5. Do Snickerdoodles no Cream of Tartar Taste Different?

Snickerdoodles made without cream of tartar have a slightly different flavor but are still delicious.
Benefit: Offers a comparable taste and texture with accessible ingredients.

Snickerdoodles made without cream of tartar have a slightly different flavor but are still delicious.

Flavor Balance: The cinnamon-sugar coating preserves the iconic snickerdoodle taste.

Tanginess: Cream of tartar gives snickerdoodles a mild tang. Replacing it with lemon juice or baking powder results in a subtler flavor.