Snickerdoodles have long been a beloved classic in American baking, but the Amish version takes this cinnamon-sugar cookie to a whole new level. Known for their soft, chewy texture and a perfect balance of cinnamon and sweetness, Amish Snickerdoodles bring a comforting, homemade feel to every bite. These cookies have roots in Amish communities where simple ingredients and traditional methods create unforgettable flavors.
We love how this recipe combines easy-to-find ingredients with a few special touches that make the cookies extra tender and flavorful. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family gathering, or just because, these Amish Snickerdoodles are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into a recipe that’s as warm and inviting as the Amish homes it comes from.
Ingredients
To recreate the authentic Amish Snickerdoodle experience, we use simple yet precise ingredients that guarantee the classic soft texture and rich cinnamon flavor. Below, we break down the ingredients into categories for clarity and ease.
Dry Ingredients
The foundation of our cookies lies in carefully measured dry components, which provide structure and balance.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¾ cups (345 g) | Sifted for lightness |
| Cream of tartar | 2 teaspoons | Essential for signature tang |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon | For slight leavening |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor |
Wet Ingredients
Our wet ingredients blend smoothly to create the chewy, tender crumb that defines the Amish Snickerdoodle.
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup (2 sticks), softened to room temperature
- Granulated sugar – 1 ½ cups, for sweetness and slight crisp edges
- Large eggs – 2, at room temperature for even mixing
- Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons, for warm aromatic depth
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
The signature coating transforms these cookies into their classic form with a crackly, cinnamon-sweet crust.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
We carefully mix these two ingredients to create the perfect cinnamon-sugar blend for rolling the dough balls before baking, setting the lovely snap and aroma typical of Amish Snickerdoodles.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Amish Snickerdoodle cookies, having the right equipment is essential. We rely on these tools to achieve the ideal soft texture and signature cinnamon-sugar crust.
- Mixing Bowls: Use one large bowl for combining dry ingredients and another for creaming the wet ingredients. Glass or stainless steel bowls work best.
- Electric Mixer: A handheld or stand mixer makes creaming the butter and sugar smooth and efficient, ensuring the right cookie texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement of ingredients like flour, sugar, and spices is crucial for consistent results.
- Whisk and Sifter: Sifting the dry ingredients helps avoid lumps and ensures an even mix when we whisk them together.
- Rubber Spatula: Perfect for scraping down bowl sides to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cookie Scoop: A medium-sized scoop guarantees uniform cookie size and even baking.
- Baking Sheets: Use heavy-duty, rimmed baking sheets for even heat distribution and to prevent warping.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: These liners prevent sticking and promote even baking without burning the cookie bottoms.
- Wire Cooling Rack: Essential for cooling cookies evenly and preserving their soft texture without condensation.
Summary Table of Equipment
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine dry and wet ingredients |
| Electric Mixer | Cream butter and sugar |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Whisk and Sifter | Aerate and combine dry ingredients |
| Rubber Spatula | Scrape dough and mix |
| Cookie Scoop | Form uniform dough balls |
| Baking Sheets | Bake cookies evenly |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mats | Prevent sticking and burning |
| Wire Cooling Rack | Cool cookies for texture retention |
Having these tools ready streamlines the baking process. When we gather them beforehand, our Amish Snickerdoodle cookies bake evenly with that sought-after chewy bite and delicate cinnamon-sugar crust every single time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing our Amish Snickerdoodle Recipe in advance simplifies the baking process and enhances the cookie flavor. Here’s how we efficiently manage make-ahead steps to ensure fresh, delicious cookies whenever we want.
Dough Preparation and Storage
- Mix the dough fully following the recipe steps until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the dough into a ball or divide it into portions for easier handling later.
- Wrap the dough tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
| Storage Method | Duration | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | 36°F to 40°F (2°C-4°C) | Allows flavors to meld, firmer dough for less spreading |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | 0°F (-18°C) | Freeze in portioned balls, thaw before baking |
Thawing and Baking
- When ready to bake, remove dough from freezer and allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Before baking, roll the dough balls in the cinnamon-sugar coating to recreate the signature crackly crust.
- Bake according to the recipe instructions. The dough might require an extra minute or two in the oven when using refrigerated dough.
“Storing the dough ahead not only saves time but also deepens the rich flavors of our beloved Amish Snickerdoodle cookies.”
Tips for Success
- If storing dough in the refrigerator, bring dough to room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling and baking for better texture.
- Use a cookie scoop to maintain consistent cookie sizes even with chilled dough.
- Always use fresh cream of tartar and baking soda for optimal rise and chewiness.
By following these Make-Ahead Instructions, we make baking our Amish Snickerdoodle Recipe stress-free while maintaining their delightful soft texture and perfect cinnamon flavor.
Instructions
Let’s get started with our Amish Snickerdoodle recipe by following these clear and precise steps. Each phase is vital to achieve the soft, chewy texture and the signature cinnamon-sugar crust we all love.
Preparation
Before we begin, gather all your ingredients and tools. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even baking. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy release and cleanup. Measure ingredients accurately to maintain perfect balance.
Mixing the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter (softened) and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-4 minutes.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the dry ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¾ cups |
| Cream of tartar | 2 teaspoons |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Fold gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Shaping the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out dough balls about 1 ½ inches in diameter. Roll each dough ball lightly between your palms to create smooth spheres. This size ensures even baking and the ideal chewy center.
Coating with Cinnamon Sugar
Mix together the cinnamon-sugar coating:
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Roll each dough ball thoroughly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly. This coating will form the cookie’s signature crackly crust and infuse the aromatic cinnamon flavor.
Baking
Place the coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow spreading. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set but centers appear soft. Avoid overbaking to preserve the tender chewiness.
Cooling
Once baked, remove cookies from the oven and let sit on the baking sheet for 2 minutes. Then transfer them carefully to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This step prevents sogginess and helps the cinnamon-sugar crust set perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Amish Snickerdoodle Recipe we recommend these serving ideas that highlight the cookie’s soft chewiness and warm cinnamon flavor.
- Pair with Warm Beverages: Serve the snickerdoodles alongside a cup of steaming hot apple cider or spiced chai tea. The aromatic spices in the drinks complement the cinnamon-sugar on the cookies perfectly.
- Ice Cream Sandwich: For an indulgent treat, sandwich a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream between two snickerdoodles. The contrast between cold ice cream and warm cookie melts in your mouth delightfully.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly dust the baked cookies with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant touch that adds subtle sweetness and visual appeal.
- Serve with Fresh Fruit: Accompany the snickerdoodles with a side of sliced fresh fruit such as strawberries, apples, or pears. This adds refreshing texture and balances the richness of the cookie.
- Holiday Platter: Arrange snickerdoodles on a festive platter with other classic Amish baked goods like soft gingerbread cookies and molasses treats. This makes for a charming seasonal dessert display.
Table: Ideal Beverage Pairings with Amish Snickerdoodles
| Beverage | Flavor Profile | Serving Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Apple Cider | Sweet, cinnamon-spiced | Hot |
| Spiced Chai Tea | Warm spices, creamy | Hot |
| Classic Milk | Mild, creamy | Cold or Room Temp |
| Coffee | Bold, slightly bitter | Hot |
| Eggnog | Rich, nutmeg-spiced | Cold or Warm |
Each of these serving options enhances the traditional comfort that defines our Amish snickerdoodles. Whether for a cozy afternoon snack or an inviting dessert spread, these ideas ensure every bite is memorable.
Storage Tips
To keep our Amish Snickerdoodles fresh and maintain their signature soft and chewy texture, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines to enjoy your cookies at their best for days or even weeks.
Room Temperature Storage
- Store completely cooled Amish Snickerdoodles in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
- Layer cookies separated by parchment paper or wax paper to avoid sticking.
- Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Cookies stored this way will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration
- Place cookies in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss.
- Refrigerate Amish Snickerdoodles if you want to extend their freshness up to 2 weeks.
- Bring the cookies to room temperature or warm slightly in a microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving to regain softness.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
- Freeze cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to avoid sticking; once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Separate layers with parchment paper to protect the cinnamon-sugar crust.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
- Frozen Amish Snickerdoodles maintain best quality for up to 3 months.
- Thaw frozen cookies overnight at room temperature and optionally warm in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to restore freshness.
Quick Reference Storage Table
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Airtight container | Up to 5 days | Use parchment paper between layers |
| Refrigeration | Airtight container or wrap | Up to 2 weeks | Warm before serving |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe container/bag | Up to 3 months | Freeze single layer first, thaw overnight |
“Storing your Amish Snickerdoodles correctly ensures every bite stays just as delightful as when they came fresh from the oven.“
By following these simple storage tips, we can prolong the life of our Amish Snickerdoodle cookies without compromising their beloved soft texture and rich cinnamon flavor.
Conclusion
Amish Snickerdoodles bring a timeless warmth to any kitchen with their soft texture and cinnamon-sugar charm. By using simple ingredients and following traditional methods, we can easily recreate these comforting cookies at home. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, they offer a versatile treat perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
With the right tools and a bit of patience, baking these cookies becomes an enjoyable ritual that rewards us with delicious results every time. Let’s keep this classic recipe close—it’s a sweet way to add comfort and joy to our baking repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Amish Snickerdoodles?
Amish Snickerdoodles are a soft, chewy cinnamon-sugar cookie variation known for their crackly crust and aromatic flavor. They use simple, traditional ingredients and baking methods, creating a comforting and flavorful treat.
What ingredients are needed to make Amish Snickerdoodles?
You need all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, large eggs, vanilla extract, plus cinnamon and sugar for the coating.
What equipment is required for baking Amish Snickerdoodles?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, a sifter, a rubber spatula, a cookie scoop, baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, and a wire cooling rack.
Can I prepare Amish Snickerdoodle dough in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. Just roll in cinnamon-sugar before baking for best results.
How do I get the signature cinnamon-sugar crust on Amish Snickerdoodles?
Roll each dough ball thoroughly in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon before baking to create the crackly, aromatic crust.
What are some serving suggestions for Amish Snickerdoodles?
Pair them with warm drinks like hot apple cider or spiced chai, make ice cream sandwiches, dust with powdered sugar, serve with fresh fruit, or include them on a festive dessert platter.
How should I store Amish Snickerdoodles to keep them fresh?
Store in airtight containers at room temperature for up to a week, refrigerate to extend freshness, or freeze for longer storage. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking and drying out.
Are Amish Snickerdoodles suitable for special occasions?
Yes, their comforting flavors and soft texture make them perfect for gatherings, holiday celebrations, or cozy, everyday treats.