Snickerdoodles are a favorite treat for many, known for their warm, cinnamon-sugar coating and soft, chewy texture. But what if you’re out of cream of tartar and can’t find it at the store? Don’t worry! You can still make an incredible batch of snickerdoodles without using cream of tartar. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a simple snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar that’s easy to follow, and guarantees a delicious outcome.
What Is Cream of Tartar and Why Is It Used in Snickerdoodles?
To understand why cream of tartar is usually a key ingredient in snickerdoodle recipes, it’s important to know its role. Cream of tartar helps stabilize egg whites, contributes to the chewy texture, and works with baking soda to help the cookies rise. However, if you don’t have cream of tartar on hand, you can still make a tasty batch of cookies by using a snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar.
In this version, we’ll be using baking soda and vinegar or lemon juice as substitutes to achieve similar results. The cookies will be just as soft, chewy, and flavorful, so you won’t miss the cream of tartar at all!
Ingredients for a Snickerdoodle Recipe Without Cream of Tartar
Here’s everything you need for this snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp cinnamon-sugar for rolling
Optional:
- Nutmeg – For a hint of spice!
This is all you need to create a batch of snickerdoodle cookies without cream of tartar that will impress your family and friends.
How to Make Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to bake! Just follow these simple steps for a delicious snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven for Snickerdoodle Cookies Without Cream of Tartar
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients for Your Snickerdoodle Dough
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. The baking soda will help the cookies rise without the need for cream of tartar.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar Together for a Soft Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This is an important step to achieving soft, chewy snickerdoodles.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla to Your Snickerdoodle Dough
Add the eggs, one at a time, and then mix in the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients to Form Snickerdoodle Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. This will form your cookie dough.
Step 6: Roll the Dough in Cinnamon-Sugar for Perfect Snickerdoodles
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Then, roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 7: Bake Your Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar
Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. Remember that the cookies will continue to cook slightly once removed from the oven.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy Your Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar!
Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before enjoying them with a glass of milk or a hot cup of tea.
Why This Snickerdoodle Recipe Without Cream of Tartar Works So Well
Many bakers love snickerdoodles because they are a quick and easy treat to make. However, the classic recipe calls for cream of tartar, which some people may not have at home. Fortunately, you don’t need it to create a soft and chewy batch of cookies. By following a snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar, you can make delicious cookies with common ingredients like baking soda and vinegar or lemon juice.
This version of snickerdoodles maintains the iconic texture and flavor, making it the perfect substitute when you’re missing one ingredient but still want to enjoy the cookies you love.
Tips for the Best Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar
If you want to ensure that your snickerdoodles without cream of tartar turn out perfectly, here are some additional tips:
- Chill the dough: If you have extra time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help reduce spreading and make the cookies even softer.
- Use softened butter: This ensures the cookies spread evenly and achieve the right texture.
- Don’t overbake: The cookies should be soft and chewy, so make sure to remove them from the oven when the edges are golden, but the centers are still soft.
FAQs About Snickerdoodle Cookies Without Cream of Tartar
Can I Make Snickerdoodles Without Cream of Tartar?
Yes! You can still make delicious snickerdoodles by using baking soda and a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice to replace the cream of tartar. This will give your cookies the rise and texture they need.
How Do I Know When Snickerdoodles Are Done?
Snickerdoodles are done when the edges are lightly golden, but the centers are still soft. Don’t wait for the cookies to fully set in the oven, as they will firm up as they cool.
Can I Freeze Snickerdoodle Dough?
Yes! You can freeze the dough by rolling it into balls and placing them on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then store the dough in a freezer-safe container or bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Snickerdoodle Recipe Without Cream of Tartar
This snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar is a great alternative for anyone who doesn’t have cream of tartar in their pantry but still wants to enjoy these classic cookies. They’re soft, chewy, and full of cinnamon-sugar goodness. Plus, they’re quick to make with simple ingredients, so you can enjoy fresh-baked cookies any time you want.
By following this easy recipe, you’ll get the perfect snickerdoodles without the need for specialized ingredients. So go ahead and bake a batch today!