Soft and pillowy snickerdoodle cookies, perfectly coated with cinnamon sugar and bursting with buttery flavor. The ideal homemade treat that’s easy to make and deliciously nostalgic.
In a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes until fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, continuing to beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
On low speed, add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and optional salt, mixing just until combined, about 1 minute.
Form 14 equal-sized dough balls (about 2 heaping tablespoons each) using a cookie scoop or your hands, and flatten each slightly.
Place dough balls on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 5 days. Do not bake unchilled dough to prevent spreading.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with a Silpat or spray it with cooking spray.
In a small bowl, mix together the 0.25 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon for coating.
Roll each chilled dough ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
Place coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet at least 2 inches apart and bake for about 9 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and glossy.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For chewier cookies, try slightly underbaking and letting them cool on the sheet. Dough can be refrigerated up to 5 days for convenience.