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17 Cookie Recipes That Make Baking Fun Again Instead of a Huge Mess

Baking should be fun, not a kitchen catastrophe. These 17 cookie recipes cut down on the mess without sacrificing flavor. No mountains of dishes, no impossible-to-follow steps—just straightforward baking that delivers every time. Whether it’s a classic favorite or something new, these recipes make cookies easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. Just be prepared for them to disappear faster than expected.

A plate of Spiced Ginger Cookies and a cup of tea.
Ginger Spice Cookies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Chocolate Overload Cookies

Chocolate overload cookies on a white plate.
Chocolate Overload Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

There’s no such thing as too much chocolate, and these cookies prove it. Chocolate Overload Cookies bring layer after layer of deep, rich flavor in every bite. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with enough chocolate to make any craving disappear. Perfect for sharing, but let’s be honest—keeping them all to yourself is a solid option. Just be ready to make another batch because they won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Overload Cookies

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies on a white plate with strawberries nearby.
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Everything great about a classic dessert, now in cookie form. Strawberry Shortcake Cookies bring the familiar flavors of a favorite treat into a handheld version. They have a light texture with just enough sweetness to keep things interesting. Perfect for summer, a special occasion, or just because. No fork needed, just grab and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Double Chocolate Brookies

A plate of chocolate cookies with walnuts and chocolate pieces on the side.
Double Chocolate Brookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Can’t decide between a cookie and a brownie? Double Chocolate Brookies make sure you don’t have to. They have the chewiness of a brownie with the crisp edges of a cookie, making them the best of both worlds. The chocolate flavor is bold without being too much, so they work for any craving. They’re the kind of treat that keeps you reaching for just one more.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Brookies

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Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms

Shortbread M&M cookies on a black plate with flowers.
Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Buttery, crisp, and packed with color, Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms make cookie baking easy and fun. The crunchy candy adds a little something extra without making things complicated. These cookies hold their shape well, making them perfect for sharing or keeping on hand. They also happen to be great for dunking, if that’s your thing. Either way, they’re a solid choice for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms

Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Chocolate Caramel Cookies.
Chocolate Caramel Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet, rich, and just the right amount of indulgent, Chocolate Caramel Cookies are impossible to ignore. The deep chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with smooth caramel, making every bite count. They’re the kind of cookie that feels a little fancy but is easy to make. Whether they’re for a party or just a personal snack stash, they never disappoint. Just be prepared to share—people will ask.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies

A close-up of a large chocolate cookie sprinkled with coarse salt, placed on a decorative plate with pink rose patterns.
Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet and salty is always a winning combination, and Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies get it just right. The deep chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with a light sprinkle of salt for balance. They’re rich but not too heavy, making them great for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual snack or something special, these cookies fit the bill. Just don’t expect them to last long.
Get the Recipe: Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies

Peaches & Cream Cookies

Peaches and cream cookies on a plate with fresh peaches nearby.
Peaches & Cream Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Classic flavors come together in the best way with Peaches & Cream Cookies. They’re soft, sweet, and balanced with just the right amount of smooth, creamy goodness. The texture keeps every bite interesting, and they bring a fresh twist to cookie baking. They’re easy to make, easier to eat, and hard to forget. If variety is the goal, this one belongs in the lineup.
Get the Recipe: Peaches & Cream Cookies

Hot Chocolate Cookies

A white square plate with a stack of chocolate cookies featuring white chocolate chips.
Hot Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

All the comfort of a cozy drink, but in cookie form. Hot Chocolate Cookies bring the familiar flavors of a winter favorite with a chewy, satisfying texture. They hit the spot whether it’s cold outside or just time for something sweet. They disappear fast, so making extras isn’t a bad idea. No mug required, just an appetite.
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Cookies

Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

A top-down shot of Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies on a white plate.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Sweet with just the right amount of citrus, Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies are a fresh take on a classic combination. The slight crunch adds a little something extra, making each bite interesting. They’re not too heavy, so they work for a midday snack or a quick treat. They also look good enough to impress, even if they don’t stick around long. Simple to make, easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies

Frosted chocolate chip cookie cookies on a wooden cutting board.
Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If regular cookies aren’t enough, Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies take things to the next level. A soft cookie topped with even more sweetness makes every bite feel like a treat. They’re perfect for when you want something a little extra but still easy to make. Whether it’s for a party or just a fun baking session, they never disappoint. Just be ready for them to disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies

Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal raisin cookies on a plate next to a glass of milk.
Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A classic favorite made even easier, Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies keep things simple. The texture stays just right, with a crisp outside and chewy center. They’re quick to make and perfect for small batches, so there’s no need to wait. Whether it’s a snack or a last-minute craving, these cookies come through. The only downside? Figuring out how to stop at just one.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A jar of White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies next to lavender flowers.
White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a treat worth making. The texture is just right, giving each bite a nice contrast. They look as good as they taste, making them great for gifting or just enjoying at home. Perfect for when you want something different but not complicated. A batch of these never lasts long.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Three brown butter snickerdoodle cookies arranged on a white surface, sprinkled with sea salt flakes, with a white cloth and purple flowers on the side.
Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A classic cookie gets an upgrade with Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles. The familiar warm spice is still there, but the addition of caramel and browned butter takes things to another level. They have just the right balance of sweet and salty with a texture that stays soft. Perfect for when you want something familiar but with a little extra flavor. They’re good fresh, but somehow even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

A batch of Zucchini cookies with chocolate & pecan on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Baking with zucchini might sound unusual, but Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans prove it works. The added texture keeps things interesting, while the chocolate and pecans bring just the right amount of richness. These cookies stay soft and have a flavor that surprises in the best way. They’re great for using up extra zucchini without feeling like a chore. Just don’t tell anyone they’re made with vegetables until after they take a bite.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies on a slate.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Classic, chewy, and always a solid choice, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are as reliable as they come. The balance of textures keeps things interesting without making a mess. They’re great for a quick snack or something to bring along on the go. They also happen to be one of those cookies that people underestimate—until they take a bite. Simple, satisfying, and never out of place.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

A plate of chocolate cookies topped with white icing and green sprinkles. A red and white striped cloth is in the background.
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When chocolate meets peppermint, good things happen. Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies bring that perfect mix of bold and refreshing flavors. They have just enough richness to feel indulgent without being too much. Whether it’s the holiday season or just a regular day, they hit the spot. One batch is never enough, so plan accordingly.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Ginger Spice Cookies

A plate of Spiced Ginger Cookies and a cup of tea.
Ginger Spice Cookies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Warm, spiced, and just the right amount of chewy, Ginger Spice Cookies bring bold flavor without being overwhelming. They’re great for the colder months, but there’s no rule against enjoying them year-round. The balance of sweetness and spice keeps things interesting without being overpowering. They’re also the kind of cookie that somehow gets better after sitting for a day. Perfect with coffee, tea, or just by themselves.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Spice Cookies

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