Sourdough Snickerdoodles

Soft, chewy, and bursting with warm cinnamon flavor, these sourdough snickerdoodles are a delightful treat that you can enjoy on various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a festive dessert for gatherings, these cookies have a unique tangy twist from the sourdough starter that makes them irresistible. Their perfect balance of sweetness and spice will please anyone who tries them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: The combination of sourdough and cinnamon creates a distinctive taste that’s different from traditional cookies.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: These cookies are great for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to holiday celebrations.
• Texture Perfection: Enjoy the ideal soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Uses Sourdough Discard: Make use of your sourdough starter or discard instead of wasting it.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delicious sourdough snickerdoodles, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone mat

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining wet and dry ingredients efficiently.
• Cookie scoop: This tool helps ensure uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet allows the cookies to bake evenly without sticking.

Ingredients

Soft, chewy, and bursting with warm cinnamon flavor, these sourdough snickerdoodles have a slightly tangy twist you won’t be able to resist.

For the Cookies

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup sourdough starter (or discard)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cream of tartar
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

How to Make Sourdough Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This ensures your cookies will not stick during baking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the sourdough starter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

In a small mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. This mixture will coat the cookies for that signature snickerdoodle flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough.

Step 6: Chill (Optional)

For improved texture and easier handling, place the dough in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie. Roll each scoop into a ball and then coat it in the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture before placing them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 11-13 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool on the hot baking sheet.

Step 9: Cool

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delightful homemade sourdough snickerdoodles!

How to Serve Sourdough Snickerdoodles

Sourdough snickerdoodles are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them at a gathering or enjoy them at home, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your sourdough snickerdoodles with cold milk for a classic and comforting combination that enhances their chewy texture.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the cookie combined with melting ice cream creates an indulgent dessert.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons. These make great party favors for birthdays or special events, bringing sweetness to any occasion.

In a Dessert Platter

• Include sourdough snickerdoodles on a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies and fruit tarts for a diverse dessert experience at gatherings.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The cinnamon flavor complements both beverages beautifully, making for a cozy snack.

How to Perfect Sourdough Snickerdoodles

Perfecting sourdough snickerdoodles is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 10-15 minutes helps improve the texture and makes it easier to roll into balls.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately, avoiding dense cookies caused by too much flour.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be golden around the edges but slightly soft in the center for perfect chewiness.

• Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and fresh longer.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Snickerdoodles

Sourdough snickerdoodles are delightful on their own, but pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Chilled Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cookies, offering a light and healthy contrast.

2. Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Melted chocolate makes for an irresistible dip, adding an indulgent touch to each bite of cookie.

3. Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream provides a creamy accompaniment that pairs well with the cinnamon flavor of the snickerdoodles.

4. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries adds texture and tanginess, making it a great side dish alongside cookies.

5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that complement the sweetness of sourdough snickerdoodles beautifully.

6. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix can offer a satisfying contrast in texture while enhancing flavors without overshadowing the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sourdough snickerdoodles can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final product. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold measurements: Using incorrect ingredient amounts will lead to imbalanced flavors or textures. Always measure your ingredients accurately with measuring cups or a food scale.

• Bold skipping chilling: Neglecting to chill the dough can result in cookies that spread too much while baking. If time allows, chill the dough for 10-15 minutes for better shape and texture.

• Bold overmixing dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Combine wet and dry ingredients just until they come together for soft, chewy snickerdoodles.

• Bold ignoring oven temperature: Baking at incorrect temperatures will yield uneven results. Ensure your oven is preheated correctly and consider using an oven thermometer for accuracy.

• Bold not using parchment paper: Skipping parchment paper or silicone mats may cause cookies to stick. Always line your baking sheets to ensure easy removal and perfect cookie shapes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container: Place cooled cookies in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
• Duration: They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
• Layering: If stacking cookies, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Sourdough Snickerdoodles

• Freeze before baking: Scoop dough balls onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Duration: They can be frozen for up to three months.
• Bake from frozen: Bake directly from the freezer; add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating Sourdough Snickerdoodles

• Bold oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them soft and delicious.

• Bold microwave method: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat them, as they may become tough.

• Bold stovetop method: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through. This method adds a slight crispiness!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about sourdough snickerdoodles:

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in Sourdough Snickerdoodles?

You can substitute some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly. Use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for better results.

How do I make vegan Sourdough Snickerdoodles?

Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and ensure your butter is plant-based for a vegan version.

What if I don’t have cream of tartar?

You can substitute cream of tartar with baking powder. Use 2 tsp baking powder instead of 1 tsp cream of tartar, adjusting other leavening agents accordingly.

How long do Sourdough Snickerdoodles last?

In an airtight container at room temperature, they last about 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze them as mentioned above.

Can I add mix-ins to my Sourdough Snickerdoodles?

Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture variations in your sourdough snickerdoodles.

Final Thoughts

These sourdough snickerdoodles are not only soft and chewy but also versatile enough to adapt based on personal preference. Whether you enjoy them plain or customized with mix-ins, they make an excellent treat that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy all the delightful flavors!