Snickerdoodle Recipe Without Cream of Tartar

Snickerdoodle Recipe Without Cream of Tartar are a classic cookie loved for their soft, chewy texture and their signature cinnamon-sugar coating. Traditionally, snickerdoodle recipes call for cream of tartar, which gives the cookies their characteristic tangy flavor and soft texture. However, not everyone has cream of tartar on hand or prefers its taste. The good news is that you can still make delicious snickerdoodles without cream of tartar! By using simple substitutions like baking powder, you can achieve a similar result while keeping the cookies soft and flavorful.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through a snickerdoodle recipe that doesn’t use cream of tartar and provide useful tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time.

Why Skip the Cream of Tartar?

Cream of tartar is commonly used in traditional snickerdoodle recipes to add a slight tangy flavor and create a chewy texture. It also helps activate the baking soda to allow the cookies to rise. But what if you don’t have cream of tartar in your pantry, or you simply prefer a more straightforward recipe?

Skipping cream of tartar is easy, and you can substitute it with baking powder, which combines baking soda and an acid (usually cream of tartar) into one convenient leavening agent. By using baking powder, your snickerdoodles will still have the soft and chewy texture you love, without the tangy bite.

Ingredients for Snickerdoodle Recipe Without Cream of Tartar

Before you begin baking, gather all of the following ingredients to make the process smooth and easy.

Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This will ensure the cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This helps incorporate air into the dough, giving the cookies a tender texture. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Baking powder will provide the leavening action, helping the cookies rise without the need for cream of tartar.

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Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon to make the signature coating. Roll small portions of dough into 1-inch balls and then roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them.

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Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The snickerdoodles will have a soft center and slightly crisp edges, making them the perfect texture.

Tips for the Perfect Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar

1. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated for a tender texture.
2. Soften the Butter: Softened butter is key to getting the right consistency. If your butter is too cold, the dough won’t come together properly, and the cookies might be too dense.
3. Roll Evenly: Try to roll the cookie dough balls as evenly as possible to ensure uniform baking.
4. Don’t Overbake: Snickerdoodles will continue to cook on the baking sheet even after being removed from the oven. Bake until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft for chewy cookies.

Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar vs. Traditional Snickerdoodles

You might be wondering how these snickerdoodles compare to the traditional version that includes cream of tartar. The most noticeable difference is in the flavor. Traditional snickerdoodles have a slight tanginess, thanks to the acidic properties of cream of tartar, which gives the cookies a unique taste.

Without cream of tartar, the cookies rely solely on baking powder for leavening. While the cookies may lack that distinctive tang, they still offer the same soft, chewy texture and the warm cinnamon-sugar flavor you expect from a classic snickerdoodle.

Variations to Try

If you want to get creative, here are a few variations on the classic snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar:

1. Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Brown butter adds a rich, nutty flavor to snickerdoodles, enhancing the taste of the cinnamon-sugar coating. To make brown butter snickerdoodles, simply melt the butter in a pan over medium heat until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Let it cool before using it in the recipe.

2. Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles

For a seasonal twist, replace the cinnamon in the coating with pumpkin spice, which includes warm spices like nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. These cookies are perfect for fall!

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3. Chocolate Chip Snickerdoodles

Add chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a delightful combination of cinnamon, sugar, and melty chocolate. This variation combines the best of both worlds: a snickerdoodle base with the richness of chocolate chip cookies.

4. Gluten-Free Snickerdoodles

If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.

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Health Benefits of Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar

While snickerdoodles are certainly a sweet indulgence, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here are a few reasons why snickerdoodles without cream of tartar might be a good choice for some:

1. No Preservatives: By making your own snickerdoodles, you can avoid the preservatives and additives often found in store-bought cookies.
2. Lower Acidity: Without the cream of tartar, these cookies are lower in acidity, which may be gentler on sensitive stomachs.
3. Customizable Ingredients: You have full control over the ingredients, which means you can choose organic sugar, butter, or even use a healthier alternative like coconut oil or whole wheat flour if you prefer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Tartar in Snickerdoodles?

Baking powder is the easiest substitute for cream of tartar in snickerdoodles. It combines both an acid and a base, which mimics the leavening action of cream of tartar and baking soda.

2. Why Don’t My Snickerdoodles Spread?

If your snickerdoodles aren’t spreading, the dough may be too cold. Make sure your butter is softened before mixing, and try gently pressing the dough balls down before baking to help them spread evenly.

3. Can I Freeze Snickerdoodle Dough?

Yes! You can freeze snickerdoodle dough for up to three months. Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw the dough slightly, roll it in cinnamon-sugar, and bake as usual.

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Conclusion

Snickerdoodles without cream of tartar are a wonderful variation of the classic cookie. By using baking powder as a substitute, you’ll still get the soft, chewy texture that makes snickerdoodles a beloved treat, without the tangy flavor. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just to satisfy a cookie craving, this easy and delicious recipe is sure to be a hit.

For more delicious cookie recipes, seasonal variations, and easy baking tips, explore our other dessert guides. Happy baking!

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