If you’re seeking a delightful twist on a classic treat, look no further than these Chocolate Snickerdoodles. With their soft, chewy texture and rich cocoa flavor, these cookies offer everything you love about the traditional snickerdoodle, but with an extra indulgent taste. The combination of warm cinnamon and chocolate creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting, making them the perfect addition to any cookie platter or dessert table. Whether you need a quick dessert idea for a family gathering or a treat for your coffee break, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
These Chocolate Snickerdoodles take just 25 minutes to prepare and yield an impressive 24 cookies, making them an ideal choice for cookie swaps or quick gatherings. The fun of rolling each dough ball in a cinnamon-sugar mix adds a charming touch, resulting in cookies with a delightful crackle on top that you simply can’t resist. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or cocoa for a comforting snack that feels just like home. Perfect for cozy nights by the fireplace or a sweet ending to dinner, these cookies are a must-try for all chocolate lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Snickerdoodles
- Unique Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cinnamon makes these cookies a standout choice!
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies in no time.
- Perfect Texture: Soft and chewy with a delightful crackly top, these cookies are sure to please everyone.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from holiday trays to everyday snacking.
- Quick Preparation: You can have fresh cookies ready in just about 25 minutes!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into baking your Chocolate Snickerdoodles, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen for success. Start by gathering your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a separate bowl for mixing the dry ingredients, measuring cups and spoons, and an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper is also crucial for easy cookie removal and cleanup.
To ensure even baking, be sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This step is vital for achieving the perfect texture — crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. While waiting for the oven, take a few moments to measure out your butter, sugars, and dry ingredients to streamline your baking process.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for rolling)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature when you’re ready to bake. While the oven heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will not only prevent sticking but also help your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with both the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can take about 2 to 3 minutes. The incorporation of air into the mixture is key to achieving a delightful texture in your cookies.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add in the large egg and teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well integrated. This mixture should appear smooth and creamy, indicating it’s ready for the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour and prevents clumps of cocoa from forming in your cookies.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter-sugar mixture. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to combine everything until just mixed. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough cookies. You want the dough to be soft and slightly sticky.
Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. This will be used to roll the dough balls in, giving your cookies a wonderful flavor and an attractive outer coating.
Step 7: Form Cookie Dough Balls
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Then, roll each ball in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. This extra layer of sugar adds sweetness and a slight crunch to the finished cookies.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the rolled dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes. The edges should be set, while the centers remain soft for that perfect chewy texture.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!
After baking, leave the cookies on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. This helps them set before you transfer them. Then, move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they’re ready to be enjoyed!
Variations
- Protein: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Vegetables: Incorporate finely grated zucchini for a unique twist that adds moisture without altering the flavor significantly.
- Spices: Experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming, as this aids in achieving the right texture.
- To maintain the perfect chewy texture, underbake slightly so the centers remain soft.
- The dough can be frozen after rolling, allowing you to enjoy fresh cookies at any time by baking straight from the freezer.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage.
- These cookies are perfect for gifting during the holidays or for cookie exchanges!
Tips
- For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder.
- Make sure to leave enough space between the cookies on the sheet to allow for spreading while baking.
- Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a delicious sweet and salty contrast.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 9–11 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 120 per cookie
- Protein: 1.5g
- Sodium: 90mg
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can substitute margarine for butter, using real butter yields the best flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough after shaping it into balls. Just allow for a few extra minutes of baking time if baking from frozen.
What can I serve with Chocolate Snickerdoodles?
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chocolate Snickerdoodles are a delectable treat that marries the richness of chocolate with the comforting warmth of cinnamon. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a cozy evening snack, or just a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to deliver delicious results. Give these cookies a try and feel free to share your own variations or experiences in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family so they too can enjoy the joy of baking and indulging in these delightful treats!
Print
Chocolate Snickerdoodles
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
These Chocolate Snickerdoodles offer a delightful twist on a classic treat, with tender, chewy cookies that meld rich cocoa and warm cinnamon for an indulgent flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line the baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
- In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon for rolling.
- Form dough into tablespoon-sized balls and roll them in the cinnamon sugar.
- Place on lined baking sheets, spaced 2 inches apart, and bake for 9 to 11 minutes.
- Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
You can freeze the dough after shaping it into balls to enjoy fresh cookies later.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 9–11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 per cookie
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Protein: 1.5 g