Are you looking for a sweet treat to share with your little ones? Look no further! Baking cookies with kids can be a fun and rewarding experience, teaching them important skills like measuring, mixing, and patience. And the best part? They get to enjoy the delicious fruits of their labor afterwards!
To make baking even more enjoyable for kids, we’ve put together a list of 18 fun and easy cookie recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic favorites like chocolate chip and peanut butter cookies, to creative treats like monster cookies with M&M’s and rainbow cookie bars, there’s something on this list for every kid (and kid at heart!) to enjoy.
In the following pages, we’ll share our favorite cookie recipes that are perfect for kids to help with. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to have some fun in the kitchen!
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
These soft and chewy cookies are a staple treat that’s perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family.
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 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 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract (optional).
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Peanut Butter Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy and delicious peanut butter cookies! This recipe yields a batch of soft, golden-brown treats that are perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture
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.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugars and beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg until well mixed.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
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 brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sugar Cookies with Sprinkles
Brighten up your day with these classic sugar cookies decked out in vibrant sprinkles! This easy recipe yields a tray of soft, chewy treats perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
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. Decorate with sprinkles while still warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
A sweet and chewy treat that’s perfect for snacking or sharing, these oatmeal raisin cookies are a classic favorite. With the warmth of rolled oats and sweetness of raisins, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups 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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. 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
Snickerdoodle Cookies
These classic cookies are a staple of any cookie jar, with their signature cinnamon-sugar flavor and soft, chewy texture. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a batch of these delicious treats ready to devour in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons cinnamon-sugar mixture (see 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, cream of tartar, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, then roll each ball in cinnamon-sugar mixture.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between cookies.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shortbread Cookies
A classic Scottish treat, shortbread cookies are a simple yet elegant delight. With just a few ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll be enjoying these crumbly, buttery treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
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.
3. Add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
4. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times until it comes together.
5. Roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies
These chewy and spicy treats are a holiday season staple. With just the right balance of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 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
– Water, as needed
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, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set.
Banana Oat Cookies
These chewy cookies are perfect for a snack or dessert, packed with the natural sweetness of bananas and the wholesome goodness of oats. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large 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
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of chocolate chips, perfect for a fall treat or anytime dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 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 soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Monster Cookies with M&M’s
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy Monster Cookies packed with colorful M&M’s!
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
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups M&M’s
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 flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in M&M’s.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rainbow Cookie Bars
Rainbow Cookie Bars: A Vibrant Treat for Any Occasion!
These colorful bars are perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a sweet treat to brighten up your day. With a crunchy rainbow-colored top and chewy cookie base, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Rainbow sprinkles (about 1 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture.
6. Stir in rainbow sprinkles.
7. Press dough into prepared baking dish.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies get a burst of citrus flavor from fresh lemon zest and juice, making them perfect for springtime gatherings or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Double Chocolate Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these rich and decadent double chocolate cookies. Made with dark cocoa powder and semi-sweet chocolate chips, these treats are perfect for anyone who loves a good chocolate fix.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder
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, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips and cocoa powder.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool on wire rack before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Almond Butter Cookies
These classic cookies get a nutty twist with the addition of creamy almond butter, resulting in a deliciously chewy treat that’s perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped almonds or sea salt for topping
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 almond butter until smooth. Add sugars and beat until combined.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Applesauce Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are a perfect treat for any time of the day, filled with the comforting flavor of applesauce. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup applesauce
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and applesauce.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these soft and chewy cinnamon roll cookies, packed with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (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, baking powder, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Macaroons
These chewy treats are a perfect combination of sweet coconut flakes and crunchy chopped nuts. With only a few ingredients, you can easily make these delicious macaroons at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture until well combined.
5. If using nuts, fold them in at this stage.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the bottom.
8. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
No-Bake Chocolate Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these no-bake chocolate cookies that are easy to make and require minimal effort. Perfect for a last-minute dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Fold the melted chocolate into the oat mixture until well combined.
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! No baking required.
Vanilla Wafer Cookies
These soft, chewy, and deliciously sweet cookies are a staple in many households. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these tasty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 egg
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
4. Beat in vanilla extract and egg.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get your kids involved in the kitchen with these fun and easy cookie recipes! From classic treats like Chocolate Chip Cookies and Peanut Butter Cookies, to creative twists like Sugar Cookies with Sprinkles and Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, there’s something for every young baker. These simple recipes use ingredients you likely already have on hand, making them perfect for a family baking day or a fun activity to do together. So gather your little helpers and get ready to make some delicious memories in the kitchen!
