Missing the Paigow (et al.) [sniff]

[Fugee]

Originally posted by TexLex
I've been wrong before, but is there any difference between snickerdoodles and round sugar cookie dough balls rolled in cinnamon and sugar and baked?

Yes. My Cook's Illustrated baking book says:

Traditionally a snickerdoodle has a subtle tang or sour undertone that contrasts with the cinnamon sugar coating. Most recipes rely on baking soda and cream of tartar as the leavening agents for two reasons. First, the cream of tartar provides the characteristic tang. Second, the cream of tartar and baking soda cause the cookie to rise very quickly and then collapse somewhat. The result is the characteristic crinkly top.