20 Irresistible Cookie Jar Recipes for Sweet Tooths

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth, there’s nothing quite like a warm, fresh-baked cookie straight from the oven. And what’s better than a plate of cookies? A jar full of them, that’s what! A classic cookie jar filled with an assortment of mouthwatering treats is the perfect way to brighten up any day. In this article, we’re sharing 20 irresistible cookie recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning sweet tooth. From classic chocolate chip cookies to creative combinations like peanut butter crunch and snickerdoodle cinnamon delights, there’s something for everyone in our cookie jar.

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

This timeless favorite is a staple of any cookie lover’s repertoire, with its perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy center. These cookies are easy to make and always a hit with friends and family.

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
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups 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 soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
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 brown.

Yield: 12-15 cookies
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Oatmeal Raisin Spice Cookies

Warm up with a classic treat – Oatmeal Raisin Spice Cookies! These chewy cookies combine the sweetness of raisins with the warmth of spices, all wrapped up in a soft and fluffy oatmeal cookie.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 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, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Stir in raisins.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Peanut Butter Crunch Cookies

A classic favorite gets a delicious boost from crunchy peanut butter and chopped peanuts!

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped peanuts
– Optional: sea salt for topping

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, combine peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chopped peanuts.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Double Chocolate Mint Cookies

These chewy cookies combine the richness of dark chocolate with the cooling sensation of peppermint, perfect for a sweet escape from the ordinary. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delightful treats in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– Crushed candy canes or chopped fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Stir in 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.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Snickerdoodle Cinnamon Delights

Snickerdoodle Cinnamon Delights: Soft, chewy cookies infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of sugar.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Cream of tartar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add the dry ingredients mixture and mix until just combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.

Yield: About 20 cookies

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Almond Joy Stuffed Cookies

Treat yourself to a cookie that’s as decadent as it is delicious, with the classic combination of coconut, almonds, and chocolate. These soft-baked treats are stuffed with the gooey goodness of Almond Joys, making them a perfect indulgence 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
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 12 Almond Joy bars (cooled and chopped)
– 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 soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Stir in coconut and chopped Almond Joy bars.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies

These chewy cookies are a perfect combination of crunchy macadamia nuts and creamy white chocolate, making them a favorite among cookie lovers. With just the right amount of sweetness, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 cup white chocolate chips

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. 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 flour mixture until just combined, then stir in macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies

These buttery shortbread cookies get a burst of citrus flavor from a tangy lemon glaze, making them perfect for a sweet and refreshing snack or dessert.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lemon glaze (see below)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Lemon Glaze:

– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before drizzling with lemon glaze.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Red Velvet Cream Cheese Cookies

These soft-baked cookies combine the classic flavors of red velvet cake with the tanginess of cream cheese, resulting in a unique and delicious treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and brown sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Beat in red food coloring and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
6. Beat in cream cheese until smooth.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Brown Butter Toffee Cookies

These soft-baked cookies are infused with the deep flavor of brown butter and the crunch of toffee bits, making them a perfect treat 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
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup toffee bits

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, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in toffee bits.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies Recipe

Rich, chewy cookies filled with the perfect balance of salty and sweet caramel, paired with dark chocolate chips – a match made in heaven!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup caramel bits (such as Kraft or Ghirardelli)
– Flaky sea salt, for garnish

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.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and caramel bits.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Maple Glaze

These soft-baked cookies are infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, topped with a sweet and tangy maple glaze. Perfect for a cozy autumn afternoon or as a thoughtful gift.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Maple glaze (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 salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Maple Glaze:

– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tbsp powdered sugar

Mix together and drizzle over cooled cookies. Enjoy!

Gingerbread Molasses Cookies

Warm up with a classic holiday treat: Gingerbread Molasses Cookies! These soft-baked cookies combine the spicy warmth of ginger and the richness of molasses for a truly cozy treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– Salt to taste

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, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized 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 on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Coconut Lime Sugar Cookies

These sweet treats combine the brightness of lime with the richness of coconut, perfect for a summer treat or special occasion. With only a few extra ingredients, you can transform your classic sugar cookie recipe into a tropical getaway in every bite.

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 shredded coconut
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 egg
– Colored sprinkles or shredded coconut for topping (optional)

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 together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lime juice and mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg, then gradually add the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Fold in shredded coconut.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Funfetti Birthday Cake Cookies

Celebrate a birthday with these sweet and colorful Funfetti Birthday Cake Cookies!

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 granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles

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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in funfetti sprinkles.
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 lightly golden.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Espresso Chocolate Chunk Cookies

These chewy cookies combine the richness of espresso with the indulgence of dark chocolate chunks, creating a perfect pair for coffee lovers and chocoholics alike.

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 brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp instant espresso powder
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chunks

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 butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and espresso powder.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chunks.
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 set and centers are slightly soft.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Banana Walnut Oat Cookies

These chewy cookies are packed with the natural sweetness of bananas, the crunch of walnuts, and the wholesome goodness of rolled oats. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients:

– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, melted butter, and chopped walnuts to the dry mixture. Stir until combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Dark Cherry and Dark Chocolate Cookies

Elevate your baking game with these decadent cookies that combine the sweetness of dark cherries with the depth of dark chocolate. Perfect for a special treat or as a gift, these chewy treats are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup dark brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dark cherries, pitted and chopped
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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 one at a time.
4. Stir in chopped dark cherries and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in dark chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly gooey.

Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

These chewy cookies are infused with sweet-tart raspberries and topped with a dollop of jam, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. With only 6 ingredients, they’re also incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup raspberry preserves
• 1 egg
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Place cookies onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Fill the indentation with a small dollop of raspberry preserves.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

M&M’s Rainbow Cookie Jar Surprise

Add a pop of color and fun to your cookie jar with this easy-to-make M&M’s Rainbow Cookie Jar Surprise! This sweet treat is perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a fun snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 bag of white chocolate chips
– 1 cup of milk chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup of crushed M&M’s candies (assorted colors)
– 1 tablespoon of shortening (like Crisco)
– 1 cookie jar or container with a wide mouth

Instructions:

1. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. Stir in the milk chocolate chips and crushed M&M’s candies until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into the cookie jar or container, spreading evenly.
4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Cooking Time: None needed! Just chill and serve.

Summary

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these 20 irresistible cookie jar recipes! From classic chocolate chip to unique flavor combinations like peanut butter crunch and almond joy stuffed, there’s something for everyone. Try out the snickerdoodle cinnamon delights, white chocolate macadamia nut cookies, or pumpkin spice cookies with maple glaze. And don’t miss the funfetti birthday cake cookies or the dark cherry and dark chocolate cookies. Whether you’re a fan of nuts, spices, or bright colors, these cookie recipes are sure to impress!

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