Are you a beginner baker looking to whip up some delicious cookies? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 easy and simple cookie recipes that are perfect for those just starting out in the world of baking. From classic chocolate chip cookies to creative flavor combinations like peanut butter with a fork cross and matcha green tea with white chocolate, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings or a delicious gift to share with friends and family, these simple cookie recipes are sure to impress. And the best part? They require minimal ingredients and equipment, making them accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
In the following pages, we’ll be diving into each of these 18 simple cookie recipes, sharing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips along the way. So grab your mixing bowl and preheat your oven – it’s time to get baking!
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
A sweet and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies are soft and chewy on the inside, with a delicate crunch on the outside. Perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Peanut Butter Cookies with a Fork Cross
These classic peanut butter cookies get a delightful makeover with the addition of a simple fork cross on top. A perfect treat for any occasion, these chewy and nutty cookies are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Optional: fork for cross-making
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg and milk until well mixed.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes or use a fork to create a simple cross pattern on each cookie.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
10. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Start your day off right with a sweet treat that’s both wholesome and indulgent. These chewy oatmeal raisin cookies are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in raisins.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shortbread Cookies with Vanilla Glaze
A classic Scottish shortbread cookie recipe gets a sweet and creamy twist with the addition of a vanilla glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour, salt, and baking powder; mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
5. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing.
Vanilla Glaze:
– Whisk together confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract in a small bowl.
– Drizzle over cooled shortbread cookies.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Snickerdoodle Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar
Get ready to fall in love with these chewy and sweet cookies, infused with the warmth of cinnamon sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp cream of tartar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (see note)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Roll dough into balls, then roll each ball in cinnamon sugar to coat.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Drop Cookies with Zesty Glaze
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet lemon drop cookies, topped with a zesty glaze that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in lemon zest and juice. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Zesty Glaze:
1. Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, lemon juice, and 1 tsp water in a small bowl.
2. Drizzle glaze over warm cookies. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Almond Butter Cookies with Sea Salt
These chewy cookies are a perfect blend of nutty flavor and crunchy texture, finished with a touch of sea salt for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together almond butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Sprinkle with sea salt before baking.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Double Chocolate Cookies with Cocoa Powder
These chewy cookies are packed with intense chocolate flavor and a deep brown color, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing
Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing Recipe
Summary:
Create a classic holiday treat by baking soft and spicy gingerbread cookies, then topping them with a rich and creamy royal icing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Royal Icing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water.
2. Add food coloring if desired.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
Savor the tropical flavors of Hawaii with these chewy cookies filled with crunchy macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Satisfy your fall cravings with these soft-baked pumpkin spice cookies, perfectly paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Cream cheese frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, butter, sugar, and egg. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until combined. Spread or drizzle over cooled cookies.
Banana Oat Cookies with Chocolate Chips
A delicious and healthier cookie option that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the comfort of chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mashed bananas, honey, and egg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the banana mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Pecan Cookies with Brown Sugar
These chewy cookies are infused with the sweetness of maple syrup, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the depth of brown sugar. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in maple syrup and eggs until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chopped pecans.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling
These soft-baked cookies combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake with a creamy surprise inside – perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the cookies:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cream cheese filling:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Add red food coloring and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until combined.
5. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool completely on wire rack.
7. For the cream cheese filling, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add butter and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
8. Sandwich a small dollop of filling between two cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Matcha Green Tea Cookies with White Chocolate
These bite-sized cookies combine the bright, grassy flavor of matcha green tea with the creamy sweetness of white chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and matcha powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler. Dip cooled cookies into melted white chocolate, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies with Jam
Sweet and tangy, these Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies with Jam are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup raspberry jam
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour mixture and mix until combined.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch between each cookie.
5. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
6. Fill the indentation with about 1/2 tsp of raspberry jam.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden brown.
8. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Molasses Cookies with Cinnamon Sugar Coating
These soft-baked molasses cookies are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of dark sugar, then topped with a crunchy cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for a cozy snack or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1 large egg
– Cinnamon sugar coating (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and egg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
– Mix together 2 tbsp granulated sugar and 1 tsp ground cinnamon.
– While cookies are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
Summary
Get baking with these 18 easy and simple cookie recipes perfect for beginners! From classic chocolate chip cookies to creative flavors like matcha green tea and raspberry thumbprint, there’s something for everyone. Try soft and chewy sugar cookies or peanut butter cookies with a fork cross design. Or, indulge in sweet treats like double chocolate cookies, gingerbread men, or pumpkin spice cookies. These simple recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends. Get baking and enjoy the perfect treat!