Baking traditions don’t have to be complicated, and 17 cookies worth starting new traditions prove just that. This collection makes it easy to bring something new (or nostalgic) to the table without second-guessing the recipe. Some are crisp, some are chewy, and a few might just convince someone to give up store-bought cookies for good. Whether baking for the first time or adding to a well-worn recipe card collection, these cookies make a strong case for baking more often.
White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Some cookies look too good to eat, but that never stops anyone. White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies bring a mix of soft centers, crisp edges, and a sweet bite that keeps people coming back. The signature crinkle top makes them a favorite for cookie swaps, dessert tables, and anyone who appreciates a cookie that stands out. They’re just the right mix of familiar and special, making them an easy tradition to start. Try keeping a batch on hand, but don’t expect them to last long.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Everyone has opinions about oatmeal cookies, but Oatmeal Raisin Cookies make a strong case for keeping things classic. They’re chewy, lightly spiced, and have just enough texture to make every bite interesting. Perfect with coffee, great for lunchboxes, and surprisingly good straight from the freezer, these cookies don’t need a special occasion. Even those who claim to prefer chocolate chips find themselves reaching for another. Whether fresh-baked or a day old, they never disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Chocolate Caramel Cookies
Keep extra on hand because one batch is never enough. Chocolate cookies are great, but Chocolate Caramel Cookies take things up a notch. With a rich chocolate base and just the right amount of gooey filling, these cookies disappear faster than expected. They bring the best parts of a candy bar and a cookie into one, making them an instant favorite. Whether baking for a party or just as a reward for surviving the week, they always deliver.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Caramel Cookies
Ginger Spice Cookies
Not all spice cookies are created equal, and Ginger Spice Cookies prove that point. They’re bold without being overwhelming, just the right amount of sweetness, and impossible to eat without reaching for another. Whether it’s the aroma that fills the kitchen or the perfectly chewy texture, these cookies always stand out. They work for every season, but don’t be surprised if they start replacing the usual holiday go-tos. One batch is never enough, and that’s not a bad thing.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Spice Cookies
Chocolate Overload Cookies
If one type of chocolate isn’t enough, Chocolate Overload Cookies fix that problem. They’re rich, packed with layers of chocolate, and have just the right texture to make them impossible to resist. These cookies are for serious chocolate fans, the kind who don’t think there’s such a thing as too much. They work as a dessert, a snack, or just a way to make a rough day better. The name says it all—expect nothing less than a full-on chocolate experience.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Overload Cookies
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies
Some cookies lean into nostalgia, and Strawberry Shortcake Cookies bring back those classic flavors in the best way. They’re soft, sweet, and packed with just enough fruitiness to make them feel fresh. Perfect for springtime, picnics, or just switching things up from the usual chocolate-heavy choices, these cookies feel a little fancy without the extra effort. They work just as well with coffee as they do for a mid-afternoon snack. Once they’re gone, making another batch feels like the only option.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Cookies
Double Chocolate Brookies
Can’t decide between a brownie and a cookie? Double Chocolate Brookies take care of that problem. They bring the rich, fudgy texture of a brownie with the crisp edges of a cookie, making them the best of both worlds. Perfect for anyone who thinks regular cookies don’t have enough chocolate, these disappear fast. They’re thick, chewy, and the kind of dessert that doesn’t need an occasion.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Brookies
Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms
Simple doesn’t mean boring, and Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms prove it. The buttery base melts in your mouth, while the candy-coated chocolate adds just enough crunch. These cookies are easy to make, fun to eat, and always a hit at any gathering. They’re perfect for gifting, sharing, or just keeping on hand for a quick treat. Whether warm from the oven or straight from the cookie jar, they never last long.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Some cookies disappear fast, but this one never even makes it to the cookie jar. Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies bring that unmistakable mix of rich and cool, making them impossible to ignore. They’re perfect for holiday trays, late-night cravings, or anyone who thinks regular chocolate just isn’t enough. Crisp edges, soft centers, and just the right balance of bold flavors make these seasonal favorite that should probably be made all year. No one will complain if that becomes the new rule.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles
If snickerdoodles needed an upgrade, Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles just set the new standard. The mix of flavors gives them more depth, while the classic texture makes them just as comforting as the original. They’re crisp on the outside, chewy in the middle, and the kind of cookie that disappears faster than expected. Perfect for those who appreciate the balance of sweet and salty, these cookies have a way of making other desserts seem unnecessary. No one will argue if these become a new go-to.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles
Hot Chocolate Cookies
Hot chocolate is great, but Hot Chocolate Cookies turn that favorite drink into something you can eat. They bring all the richness of a warm mug but with a chewy, chocolate-packed bite that works in any season. Whether paired with an actual cup of cocoa or enjoyed on their own, these cookies make any day better. They’re perfect for winter baking, but don’t be surprised if they show up year-round. After all, chocolate doesn’t have a season.
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Cookies
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Some cookies lean heavily, but Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies keep things light. They have just the right amount of citrusy brightness to make them stand out without overpowering the classic cookie texture. Great for spring gatherings, afternoon snacks, or anyone who wants a break from chocolate, they’re surprisingly addictive. The poppy seeds add a little texture, making every bite a little more interesting. These might just be the reason to keep lemons in the house at all times.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies
When a regular cookie isn’t enough, Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies take things to the next level. A soft, chewy base meets a thick layer of frosting, making these a two-in-one dessert. They’re sweet, satisfying, and a guaranteed favorite at birthdays, bake sales, and anywhere people appreciate a good sugar rush. One cookie feels like a whole dessert, but that doesn’t stop anyone from grabbing a second. This might be the best excuse to have cookies for breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies
Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Some cookies take forever, but Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies deliver chewy, golden-brown goodness in record time. They’re everything a classic oatmeal cookie should be, minus the wait. Perfect for small batches, quick cravings, or anyone who doesn’t want to turn on the oven, these cookies prove that shortcuts can taste just as good. The air fryer gives them just the right texture—crispy edges, soft centers, and no need to babysit a baking sheet. Once you try them, there’s no going back.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans
Some cookies sneak in extra ingredients without anyone noticing, and Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans do it well. They’re soft, slightly nutty, and have enough chocolate to make them an instant favorite. The added zucchini keeps them moist without overpowering the flavor, making them a great excuse to eat cookies for breakfast. Whether baked for a snack or shared at a gathering, they always get people talking. The name might raise eyebrows, but the first bite wins them over.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans
Peaches & Cream Cookies
Fruit belongs in cookies, and Peaches & Cream Cookies prove it. They’re soft, lightly sweet, and have just the right balance of fruit and richness to make them stand out. Perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon treats, or just something different from the usual cookie lineup, these always impress. They taste like something that should take hours but come together easily. Whether served with coffee or straight from the tray, they disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Peaches & Cream Cookies
Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies
Chocolate is good, but Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies take it to another level. The deep, rich chocolate flavor gets a boost from a little salt, making every bite more addictive. They’re crisp on the edges, soft in the middle, and impossible to eat just one. These cookies feel fancy without the fuss, making them great for special occasions or regular Tuesday nights. Once they’re gone, the only regret is not making more.
Get the Recipe: Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies