1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until pale and fluffy.

3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon.

5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture on low speed until just combined.

6. Cover dough and chill in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes.

7. Mix 3 tablespoons sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon in a small bowl.

8. Scoop dough into 1.5-inch balls and roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

9. Place cookies 2 inches apart on prepared sheets and bake for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are set and tops crackle.

10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.