The cream of tartar keeps the cookies light and helps them rise so I guess you could jsut add more baking soda or baking powder but have never tried it. The bottle I am using is two years old but no where near the expiration date. I also use it for egg white meringue.
What Is Cream Of Tartar?
Although not many recipes call for cream of tartar, it’s worth keeping around because it lasts forever. And when you need it, you really need it.
So store cream of tartar in a cool, dry place. Always give it a quick look and a sniff before using it. It should be white in color with no major clumps, and it will smell mildly acidic.
Do Snickerdoodles Need Cream Of Tartar?
Although I am of the opinion that yes, snickerdoodles are better with cream of tartar—that’s why I included the ingredient in My Best Snickerdoodle Recipe! WHY? I like the tangy flavor that the cream of tartar gives this pretty classic recipe. AND In addition to flavor, using cream of tartar gives the cookies their signature appearance with pronounced cracks and crags on the surface:
It makes their texture unique, too. The cookies are chewy and tacky throughout every bite. This is because the cream of tartar causes the cookies to puff immediately in the oven, then collapse as they cool.
That being said, I mentioned earlier that Cleveland Baking Powder, a prominent baking powder brand in the early 1900s, used a snickerdoodle recipe in its advertising as early as 1891. Their recipe did not use any cream of tartar—instead, it exclusively used baking powder. So you could argue that a snickerdoodle recipe without cream of tartar is the more authentic, original recipe!
What does cream of tartar do in cookies?
FAQ
What can I substitute for cream of tartar in snickerdoodles?
What does adding cream of tartar do to cookies?
What happens if you leave cream of tartar out of cookies?
Why do snickerdoodles have cream of tartar?
Here’s why: cream of tartar gives snickerdoodles a tangy flavor and a chewy, yet soft texture. It makes them so much more unique and delicious than just plain cinnamon cookies. Would you make chocolate chip cookies without the chocolate chips? OF COURSE NOT!
How do you make snickerdoodles without cream of tartar?
Here are step-by-step instructions for how to make snickerdoodles without cream of tartar: STEP 1: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together the room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. STEP 2: Add the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix on medium-high speed until smooth and fully incorporated.
Can you use baking powder instead of cream of tartar in snickerdoodles?
Sure, you could use 2 teaspoons of baking powder instead of the cream of tartar + baking soda, but then you won’t really have a snickerdoodle. Cream of tartar adds a unique tangy flavor to the cookie, which sets it apart from sugar cookies and makes it a classic snickerdoodle. You also use it for the best flavor in maple pecan snickerdoodles.
Does cream of tartar make snickerdoodle cookies soft?
Since cream of tartar acts as a leavening agent, it creates a soft, chewy snickerdoodle. Without it, the snickerdoodle cookies will be flat and possibly crunchy. If cream of tartar isn’t an option, use baking powder for a similar effect! Why is it Called a Snickerdoodle?