Are you looking for a sweet way to spend quality time with your little ones? Baking cookies together can be a wonderful bonding experience, and with these 18 fun cookie recipes, you’ll have endless possibilities! From classic chocolate chip to creative concoctions like peanut butter banana and oatmeal apple cinnamon, there’s something for every taste and skill level. Plus, many of these recipes are easy enough for kids to get involved in the mixing and measuring process, making them a great way to teach them about measurements, fractions, and following directions.
In this article, we’ll share our top picks for kid-friendly cookie recipes that are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. From soft and chewy snickerdoodles to funfetti cake mix cookies, we’ve got you covered. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started on these delicious treats!
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Bites
These bite-sized treats are the perfect combination of chewy cookie dough and melty chocolate chips. They’re easy to make and require no baking, making them a great option for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour and confectioners’ sugar.
2. Add in the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and chocolate chips.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the cookie dough bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cooking Time:
– No baking required! These treats are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Rainbow Sprinkle Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your day with these vibrant cookies bursting with color and flavor! This recipe is perfect for kids’ parties, potlucks, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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
– 1 egg
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– Rainbow sprinkles (about 1 cup)
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 large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Fold in rainbow sprinkles.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Enjoy your delicious Rainbow Sprinkle Sugar Cookies!
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of bananas with the richness of peanut butter, perfect for a snack or dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
3. Add peanut butter, sugar, flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well 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.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini M&M Cookie Pops
Bring the fun to your next party or gathering with these bite-sized cookie pops, featuring colorful M&M’s and soft-baked goodness. Perfect for kids and adults alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup Mini M&M’s
– Wooden popsicle sticks (about 20-25)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Roll dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each ball.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
5. Allow cookies to cool completely.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Dip cooled cookie balls into melted chocolate, then immediately roll in Mini M&M’s to coat. Place popsicle stick into each cookie pop.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal Apple Cinnamon Cookies
Warm up with the aroma of freshly baked cookies infused with the comforting flavors of oatmeal, apple, and cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 1 medium apple)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs, then stir in diced apples and optional nuts (if using).
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Vanilla Pudding Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the comforting flavor of vanilla pudding mix, making them a delightful treat for any time of day. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying these sweet treats in no time.
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 granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla pudding mix
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts (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 in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla pudding mix.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodles
Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodles Recipe
Snickerdoodles are a classic favorite cookie that’s soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, with a sweet and spicy flavor. This recipe yields a batch of deliciously chewy snickerdoodles that will become your new go-to treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons cinnamon sugar (see note)
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 cream of tartar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Then roll each ball in cinnamon sugar to coat.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly soft.
Note: To make cinnamon sugar, mix together 3 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
Double Chocolate Zucchini Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the best of both worlds – the richness of dark chocolate and the subtle sweetness of zucchini. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these treats are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup grated zucchini
– 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 powder, 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. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, followed by chocolate chips and zucchini.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
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 to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Funfetti Cake Mix Cookies
These colorful cookies are a perfect treat for any occasion. Made with cake mix and funfetti sprinkles, they’re easy to make and always a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of funfetti cake mix
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cake mix and funfetti sprinkles. Stir until well combined.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
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 lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Butter Honey Cookies
Sweet and nutty, these Almond Butter Honey Cookies are a perfect treat for any time of day. With the rich flavor of almond butter and the sweetness of honey, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup creamy almond butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 egg
– Optional: chopped almonds for topping
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 together butter and almond butter until smooth.
4. Add honey and mix until well combined.
5. Beat in the egg.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Graham Cracker S’mores Cookies
Satisfy your s’mores cravings with these gooey, graham-crusted cookies that combine the classic campfire treat with the comfort of a fresh-baked cookie.
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
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups crushed graham crackers (about 20-25 crackers)
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Marshmallows for topping (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 soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by crushed graham crackers and chocolate chips.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Blueberry Thumbprint Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy cookies, bursting with the flavors of lemon and blueberries. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these thumbprint cookies are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
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.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Make an indentation in each ball with your thumb or a spoon.
6. Place blueberries in the indentations.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe Summary:
Warm up to the flavors of fall with these soft, chewy pumpkin spice cookies, perfectly paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting. This recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite!
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 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 packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• Cream cheese frosting ingredients (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, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups powdered sugar
Beat frosting ingredients until smooth. Spread or drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes per batch | Total Time: 30-40 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these soft-baked cookies infused with the sweetness of strawberries and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup strawberry jam or preserves
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (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 baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in strawberry jam, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Carrot Cake Cookies with Raisins
These soft-baked cookies combine the warm spices and sweetness of carrot cake with the natural chewiness of raisins. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 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, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs, then stir in the dry ingredients and walnuts (if using).
5. Fold 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 Cup Stuffed Cookies
Rich, chewy cookies filled with a surprise burst of peanut butter cup goodness – a perfect treat for any time!
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
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup peanut butter cups, chopped
– Optional: chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for added flavor
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 one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped peanut butter cups. If using, add chocolate chips or chopped peanuts.
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
Gluten-Free Monster Cookies
These chewy cookies are a monstrous hit with kids and adults alike! Made with gluten-free flours, these treats are perfect for snacking on the go or packing in lunchboxes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, whichever you prefer)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk, whichever you prefer)
– Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or other mix-ins of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, peanut butter, sugars, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in chocolate chips and any optional mix-ins.
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 lightly golden brown around the edges.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
No-Bake Chocolate Coconut Cookies
These chewy treats are a perfect combination of rich chocolate and sweet coconut, all without the need for baking!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, coconut, and peanut butter. Mix until well combined.
2. Add honey, butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in chocolate chips until melted and well combined.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.
5. Once set, use a cookie scoop or spoon to form into balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake cookies are ready in just 30 minutes of chilling time.
Summary
Get ready to bake with your little ones! This collection of 18 fun cookie recipes for kids is sure to bring smiles and full bellies. From classic treats like chocolate chip cookies and peanut butter banana cookies, to creative twists like rainbow sprinkle sugar cookies and graham cracker s’mores cookies, there’s something for every young baker. Plus, many of these recipes are easy enough for kids to make on their own (with a little adult supervision, of course!). So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to have some fun in the kitchen!
