Buzz
Photo: GREG DUPREEThe first step in exploring cookie recipes is figuring out which type of cookie you’re in the mood to bake: Christmas cookies, traditional favorites, bite-sized treats, large indulgences, or even no-bake cookies. The possibilities are endless. Do you need a stand mixer? Sometimes, the first step is harder than it seems. But let’s simplify things: you already know you want delicious cookies, and this collection of recipes is here to guide you.
We've gathered easy cookie recipes for just about every variety, so you can quickly find the one that appeals to you and dive into baking without wasting time. Whether you're gearing up for a cookie exchange or simply eager to bake some of the most popular cookies out there, consider this your starting point. With these delectable treats, every bite will remind you how worthwhile the effort was. Time to grab those baking sheets!
1. Cinnamon-Sugar Cookies
Jennifer CauseyButtery puff pastry serves as the foundation for these easy cookies, which are filled with a delightful cinnamon-sugar and pecan swirl in every bite. Don’t worry about achieving the perfect spiral—just ensure your dough is rolled well and give it a brief stay in the freezer. These cookies are a treat for any season, though they shine especially as cookies for fall and winter, with their cozy cinnamon flavor.
2. Superthick Chocolate Chip Cookies
Greg DuPree Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer Prop Stylist: Claire SpollenCombining both semisweet and milk chocolate chips, these cookies are a dream come true for any chocolate enthusiast. They’re far from ordinary: generously sized, with only 10 cookies made per batch to keep it special. Plus, they puff up beautifully as they bake, ensuring a rich, chocolate-packed bite every time.
3. Gingerbread Cookies
Lucas AllenWho says gingerbread is only for the holidays? These cookies are perfect to bake any time of the year, and you can decorate them with a simple icing.
4. Red Velvet Sandwich Cookies
Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless, Food Stylist: Emily HallThese sandwich cookies are as stunning as they are delicious, with soft red velvet cookies and a rich white chocolate cream cheese filling. Thanks to the convenience of boxed cake mix, they’re incredibly easy to make, yet still taste impressively homemade.
5. Macaroon Thumbprints With a Surprise Nutella Center
Fred HardyFor Nutella lovers, these cute, bite-sized thumbprint cookies are the ultimate treat. Instead of traditional jam, a dollop of rich chocolate hazelnut spread fills the center, crowned with a dusting of coconut flakes for extra texture and flavor.
6. Chocolate Crinkles
Greg DuPreeCoat the dough generously in powdered sugar before baking to create this delightful, snowy appearance.
7. Angeletti
Victor SchragerTop these crumbly little treats with a delicate vanilla glaze and vibrant sprinkles for a cheerful finish.
8. Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
Victor SchragerChewy and crumbly, this beloved treat has an extra perk—the recipe is flourless, making it an excellent gluten-free dessert option.
9. Chocolate Linzer Cookies
Caitlin BenselThis twist on the traditional Linzer cookie incorporates cocoa powder into the dough, a perfect choice for chocolate lovers. Fill each cookie with bright, colorful jam to create a visually stunning dessert spread.
10. Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
Victor SchragerThis enduring recipe for the beloved chocolate chip cookie is packed with chocolate chips; for an extra twist, you can add chopped nuts to change things up.
11. Jam Sandwich Cookies
Raymond HomPlace any jam of your choice, whether store-bought or homemade, between two sugar cookies to create these delightful treats. A dusting of powdered sugar on top adds the perfect finishing touch.
12. Raspberry-Almond Linzer Cookies
Victor SchragerIncorporate ground toasted almonds into the dough to infuse these stunning sandwich cookies with a delightful nutty aroma.
13. Easy Sugar Cookies
zoff-photoThis classic sugar cookie recipe is as simple as it gets. Use the versatile dough to create Pecan Logs or Chocolate-Hazelnut Sandwich Cookies, or get creative with colorful icing to decorate your own batch.
14. Chewy Spice Cookies
Victor SchragerMolasses keeps these spice-packed cookies—loaded with ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—soft and chewy, creating the perfect texture.
15. Pine Nut Drops
Laurie FrankelThese chewy cookies are enhanced by the crunchy texture of pine nuts, providing a delightful contrast with each bite.
16. Salty-Sweet Chunkers
Caitlin BenselThese chewy treats are packed with a delightful combination of white chocolate chips, pretzels, oats, and mini marshmallows.
17. Coconut Macaroons
Victor SchragerEnhance these chewy macaroons by dipping them in melted chocolate and allowing them to set before serving for an extra layer of indulgence.
