Name: Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup red sanding sugar; 1/4 cup green sanding sugar

Every year when the holiday season rolls around, I find myself craving the warm, nostalgic flavor of snickerdoodles—but not just any kind. I want them soft, chewy, and sparkling with festive color. That’s exactly what these Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles deliver. They’re the perfect cookie to bake when you’re sipping hot cocoa, wearing fuzzy socks, and watching the lights twinkle on your tree.

I love how these cookies bring together the comforting cinnamon-sugar coating of a classic snickerdoodle with a cheerful holiday twist—thanks to red and green sugar sprinkles. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, packing holiday treat boxes, or just indulging in a seasonal sweet, these snickerdoodles will steal the show (and maybe your heart, too).

Why You’ll Love This Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles Recipe

These cookies hit the sweet spot—literally and figuratively. They’re soft in the center with just the right chew, coated in sparkling sugar that adds a slight crunch, and filled with buttery, cinnamon goodness. Plus, the holiday colors make them visually irresistible. Whether you’re gifting, sharing, or hoarding (I won’t judge), they’re always a hit.

What Kind of Sugar Should I Use for Rolling?

For this recipe, you’ll need two types of sugar: classic granulated white sugar and coarse red and green sanding sugar for that holiday sparkle. The granulated sugar ensures an even, caramelized coating while the colored sugars bring the festive flair. You can mix the cinnamon with either plain sugar or even try it with the colored ones if you’re feeling playful!

Options for Substitutions

Butter: You can swap unsalted butter for salted, just reduce the added salt by half.
Eggs: If you’re egg-free, use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water).
Flour: A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you’re baking gluten-free.
Sugar: Coconut sugar or light brown sugar can be used, though it will slightly alter the color and texture.
Cinnamon: For a spicier twist, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the sugar coating.

Ingredients for This Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles Recipe

Unsalted Butter: Brings rich flavor and helps create that chewy texture we love.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the dough and gives that classic snickerdoodle crunch on the outside.
Eggs: Act as a binder and provide structure and moisture.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warm depth and enhances the holiday aroma.
All-Purpose Flour: The main structure of the cookie—be sure to measure it correctly.
Cream of Tartar: Essential for that signature snickerdoodle tang and soft chewiness.
Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and puff up just the right amount.
Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
Cinnamon: Key to the snickerdoodle flavor and used in the rolling sugar mixture.
Red and Green Sanding Sugar: Adds festive color and a sparkling crunch.

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial—it creates air pockets that result in a soft and chewy texture.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. This gives your dough that rich, holiday-cookie scent and flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution before combining.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed or by hand until just combined. Don’t overmix—this keeps your cookies soft.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 6: Shape and Roll in Sugar

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Mix cinnamon with granulated sugar, then divide it into three bowls. Leave one as is, and mix red sugar in one bowl and green sugar in another. Roll each ball in your chosen sugar mix.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 9-11 minutes. Edges should be set, but the centers may look slightly underbaked—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. They’ll finish setting up as they cool and become perfectly chewy.

How Long to Prepare the Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles Recipe

Preparing these festive cookies takes about an hour from start to finish, making them an ideal option even for last-minute holiday baking.

Prep Time: Mixing the dough and rolling the cookies in sugar takes around 20–25 minutes. Don’t skip the 30-minute chill time—it’s key for the perfect texture.

Bake Time: Each batch takes about 9–11 minutes in the oven. Depending on your oven capacity, you might need to bake in 2–3 batches, adding just a few more minutes to your total time.

Tips for Perfect Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles

Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and room-temp eggs incorporate better and create a more consistent dough.
Don’t Overbake: Cookies should look slightly underdone in the center when removed—they’ll continue to set as they cool.
Chill the Dough: This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.
Roll Evenly: Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes, which helps ensure even baking.
Rotate the Pan: Halfway through baking, rotate your cookie sheet to ensure even browning.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Chill: Warm dough will spread too much and lead to flat cookies.
Overmixing the Dough: Leads to tougher cookies. Mix just until combined.
Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Scooping directly from the bag can add too much flour. Spoon and level for accuracy.
Using Expired Cream of Tartar or Baking Soda: These leaveners are key—make sure they’re fresh.
Overbaking: This turns chewy snickerdoodles into dry, crumbly cookies.

What to Serve With Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles?

1. Hot Chocolate

The rich, creamy texture of hot cocoa pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-sugar finish of these cookies.

2. Mulled Wine

For an adult-friendly holiday pairing, the spiced warmth of mulled wine matches the cozy vibes of snickerdoodles.

3. Eggnog

Classic, creamy, and indulgent—perfect for dipping or sipping alongside your cookies.

4. Holiday Tea Blends

Cinnamon, orange spice, or peppermint teas are wonderful complements to these treats.

5. Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve your cookies slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a festive dessert plate.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain softness.

Freezing Dough: You can freeze the rolled (unbaked) cookie dough balls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen—just add an extra 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

Freezing Baked Cookies: Let cookies cool completely, then store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.

Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie

Calories: 130
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3.5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 90mg
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 11g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my snickerdoodles extra chewy?

Be careful not to overbake them. Take them out when they still look slightly soft in the center.

Can I use store-bought colored sugar?

Yes! Red and green sanding sugar is perfect and saves time.

Do I have to use cream of tartar?

If you want the classic tang and texture, yes. However, you can substitute with 1.5 tsp baking powder if needed (though the flavor will slightly change).

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure to chill the dough and rotate your pans between oven batches.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

Definitely! They hold their shape and texture well, and the colorful sugar makes them pop in gift tins or treat bags.

Conclusion

Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles are the kind of cookie that wraps you in a holiday hug. From their soft, cinnamon-laced centers to the sparkle of red and green sugar, they’re everything festive baking should be—easy, delightful, and made to be shared. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a party, or simply cozying up with a sweet treat, these snickerdoodles bring the perfect mix of nostalgia and cheer to your kitchen.