Fancy ingredients might get all the attention, but these 17 cookies don’t need them to hold their own. They stick to the basics—flour, sugar, and butter doing what they do best. Some are crisp, some are chewy, but all of them prove that you don’t need an exotic shopping list to make something that people will happily eat straight off the baking sheet. If anything, the real challenge is making them last longer than a day.
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies
If a cookie and a cake had a perfect middle ground, it would be Strawberry Shortcake Cookies. They have a soft texture with just the right amount of sweetness, bringing in flavors that feel light without being boring. They don’t need extra toppings or complicated ingredients to taste great. Whether it’s a summer treat or just a way to mix things up, they always feel like something special. And yes, they go fast.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Cookies
Double Chocolate Brookies
Can’t decide between a brownie and a cookie? Double Chocolate Brookies settle the debate by giving you both. The texture is soft, chewy, and packed with deep chocolate flavor, making them feel like the best of both worlds. They’re rich enough to satisfy a chocolate craving but still light enough to eat more than one. And honestly, stopping at one is not a realistic expectation.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Brookies
Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies
Take a solid classic and add a little extra—that’s Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies. They start with everything good about a chocolate chip cookie and then take it up a notch with a smooth, sweet topping. The result is a cookie that’s familiar but just different enough to stand out. They work for celebrations, random snack breaks, or whenever something extra is needed. Because sometimes, a regular cookie just isn’t enough.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies
Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms
A classic cookie gets a colorful upgrade without making things complicated. Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms keep things simple with a buttery, crumbly texture and just the right amount of crunch from those little chocolate pieces. They don’t need frosting or extra toppings—they hold their own with a balance of rich and sweet flavors. Whether they’re for a holiday tray or just an afternoon snack, they disappear fast. Good luck saving any for later.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Some cookies go all out, but Oatmeal Raisin Cookies prove that simple ingredients still make a great snack. They’re chewy, slightly crisp around the edges, and loaded with just the right amount of sweetness. Whether they remind you of childhood or just make a solid afternoon treat, they always hit the spot. They’re perfect with coffee, tea, or straight out of the container. No fancy add-ins are needed—just a cookie that does the job.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Chocolate Caramel Cookies
There’s something about Chocolate Caramel Cookies that makes them impossible to ignore. The deep chocolate flavor gives them a solid base, while the caramel adds just enough sweetness to keep things interesting. Each bite has a little chew, a little crunch, and a whole lot of rich flavor. They’re the kind of cookies that disappear before they even cool down. If you’re looking for leftovers, good luck.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Caramel Cookies
Chocolate Overload Cookies
If one kind of chocolate isn’t enough, Chocolate Overload Cookies step in to fix that. These cookies are packed with deep, rich flavors that make each bite feel like a full-on dessert. They’re soft in the center, crisp at the edges, and unapologetically loaded with chocolate. Whether you pair them with coffee, milk, or just eat them straight from the tray, they never disappoint. Extra chocolate? Always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Overload Cookies
Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Same classic flavor, new way to make them—Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies bring all the chewiness and crunch without the extra hassle. They have just the right mix of textures, with a soft inside and slightly crisp edges. The oats add a heartiness that makes them feel just a little more satisfying than your average cookie. They’re easy, quick, and perfect for those moments when a cookie craving hits. Fresh, homemade cookies in minutes? That’s a win.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
If soft and chewy is the goal, White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies absolutely deliver. The crinkled tops give them that signature look, but the real highlight is the melt-in-your-mouth texture. They have a balance of creamy sweetness and a slight crisp on the outside, making them a favorite for any cookie tray. No need for extra decorations—these cookies hold their own with simple ingredients. They’re just as good for a special occasion as they are for an afternoon snack.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans
Don’t underestimate Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans—they pack in flavor and texture without being overly complicated. The zucchini adds moisture, making these cookies extra soft, while the chocolate and pecans bring a mix of sweetness and crunch. They’re the kind of cookies that surprise people in the best way. Perfect for using up extra zucchini or just switching things up from the usual lineup. They might not sound like a first choice, but one bite changes that.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans
Peaches & Cream Cookies
A little fruity, a little creamy—Peaches & Cream Cookies bring something different to the table. The soft, chewy texture makes them easy to love, while the flavor is just the right mix of sweet and fresh. They don’t need any complicated extras to make them stand out. Whether it’s a summer snack or just a way to change things up, they’re a solid choice. And like all good cookies, they won’t stick around for long.
Get the Recipe: Peaches & Cream Cookies
Ginger Spice Cookies
When warm spices meet a chewy cookie, you get Ginger Spice Cookies. They have just the right balance of bold flavor and soft texture, making them a go-to for anyone who likes a little kick in their cookies. They’re great for holidays but work just as well year-round. No frosting, no extras—just a solid, flavorful cookie that holds its own. And if you’re not careful, you might finish the whole batch without realizing it.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Spice Cookies
Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles
A classic cookie gets a flavor boost with Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles. They keep the familiar warmth and slight chew of a snickerdoodle but add a layer of rich caramel and just a hint of salt. The brown butter brings a deeper, slightly nutty taste that makes every bite even better. They work just as well for a holiday tray as they do for a random Tuesday. And once you try them, they’ll probably be requested on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Cool and rich come together in Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, making them a solid choice when something bold is needed. The deep chocolate flavor gets a refreshing twist from peppermint, balancing richness with just the right amount of cool sweetness. They’re crisp on the edges, soft inside, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether it’s a holiday or just a regular cookie craving, they never disappoint. One batch is rarely enough.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Hot Chocolate Cookies
Hot Chocolate Cookies bring everything good about a warm cup of cocoa into cookie form. They have a deep chocolate flavor with a soft, chewy texture that makes them feel just right on a cold day. No mug required—just grab one (or more) and enjoy. They’re perfect for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or just because. And yes, they disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Cookies
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Bright, simple, and packed with flavor, Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies prove that citrus and cookies are a great combination. The slight crunch from the poppy seeds adds a little texture, while the lemon keeps things fresh and balanced. They’re light enough to enjoy any time of day, whether as a snack or something to go with coffee or tea. No extra frills—just a solid cookie with a fresh flavor. And once they’re out, they don’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies
Sweet and salty come together in Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies for a cookie that’s rich but not over-the-top. The deep chocolate flavor is balanced with just a hint of salt, making them easy to keep eating. They’re crisp on the edges, soft in the middle, and perfect for when a basic cookie just won’t cut it. Pair them with coffee, milk, or straight off the baking sheet—it all works. Trying to eat just one? Probably not happening.
Get the Recipe: Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies