27 Cookie Recipes Saved Me When I Had No Idea What to Bake
Sometimes the brain blanks, and all that’s left is a craving and a half-clean kitchen. That’s when having 27 cookie ideas ready to go feels like someone handed over the cheat codes. No planning, no overthinking, just press bake and pretend you had it figured out all along. It’s the kind of list that makes it look like you bake on purpose.

Sugar Cookies Without Butter

When you’re out of butter, these cookies come to the rescue with an easy twist. Sugar Cookies Without Butter are simple yet deliver that classic sweetness everyone expects. They’re perfect for quick baking while keeping things light and easy. You won’t miss the butter with these on the table.
Get the Recipe: Sugar Cookies Without Butter
Marshmallow Swirl Cookies

Bringing a soft twist to a familiar favorite, these cookies bring marshmallows into the mix. Marshmallow Swirl Cookies add a gooey texture that balances the crunch, making them a fun option for any day. They’re ideal for anyone who loves a playful mix of textures in their dessert. Every bite feels like a blend of two worlds.
Get the Recipe: Marshmallow Swirl Cookies
No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Skip the oven when you need a cookie fix with these no-bake treats. No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies bring together rich flavors in a quick way, making them super convenient. The nutty twist pairs beautifully with the sweetness for a balanced flavor. They’re made for moments when baking isn’t on your plan but cookies are still a must.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

When you want something that feels extra special, this re-creation is waiting. Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies capture the rich, cake-like flavor in cookie form with a touch of sweetness from the chips. They’re fun to bake and even more fun to share. It’s a dessert that always feels just a little fancy.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies
Peanut Butter Cookies

Simple yet irresistible, these cookies cover all the bases for a comforting treat. Peanut Butter Cookies deliver smooth flavor packed into every bite without any fuss. They’re perfect if you’re craving something rich but straightforward. A good go-to cookie for any snack break or dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cookies
Strawberry Cookies

When you’re craving something sweet and fruity, these deliver a fresh take on classic cookies. Strawberry Cookies bring bold fruit flavors into every bite, making them stand out from the usual options. They’re light yet packed with flavor, a great twist on traditional treats. Perfect for anyone looking to mix up their dessert choices.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Cookies
Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Turning a classic cake into cookie form, these are a fun way to enjoy familiar flavors. Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting combine warm spices with smooth frosting that feels instantly comforting. They’re perfect for moments when you want something cozy and familiar. Everyone loves a classic with a little twist.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Spiced Apple Cookies

These cookies are perfect for those who love a cozy bite with a little twist. Spiced Apple Cookies bring together a balanced mix of soft texture and flavors you’d want for a snack. They have a subtle sweetness that feels great at any time of the day. Perfect for lunches, coffee breaks, or sharing with friends.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Apple Cookies
Lemon Cookies

Bright and fresh, these cookies offer a refreshing twist on usual desserts. Lemon Cookies bring citrus flavors into every bite without being overly sweet. A great option when other cookies feel too heavy. They’re simple but have just the right amount of boldness to keep things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Cookies
Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Perfect for chocolate lovers who always want just a little more. Double Chocolate Chip Cookies bring extra richness into a familiar classic, making every bite feel full of flavor. They’re ideal for anyone who can’t get enough of chocolate treats. You’ll want seconds before you’re even finished with your first.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
Banana Pudding Cookies

Warm flavors blend with a classic dessert idea for these unique cookies. Banana Pudding Cookies channel the richness of pudding into easy-to-eat bites. They’re perfect when you want something soft but with bold flavors behind every bite. A fun new twist on a familiar dessert profile.
Get the Recipe: Banana Pudding Cookies
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

If you want cookies that look as good as they taste, try these. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies bring a texture mix that adds a twist to regular chocolate cookies. They’re just a little unexpected while still being loaded with chocolate. Great for moments when visuals matter as much as flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Shortbread Cookies

Simple to make but always welcome, these cookies are timeless. Shortbread Cookies blend buttery smoothness into a crumbly texture that everyone loves. They’re ideal for pairing with drinks or enjoying on their own. A straightforward choice for anyone seeking tradition in dessert.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Cookie Dough Cookie Recipe

For anyone chasing that cookie dough flavor in baked form, this recipe delivers. Copycat Crumbl Cookie Dough Cookie Recipe offers a fun twist that turns dough cravings into cookie reality. It’s always a crowd-pleaser and surprisingly easy to make. A great idea when you’re hosting or just want a treat for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cookie Dough Cookie Recipe
Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Looking for a dessert that doubles as decoration? Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos make Oreos fun with a colorful chocolate update. They’re great for parties or themed gatherings without being overly complicated. Simple to prepare but always impressive.
Get the Recipe: Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos
Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Enjoy cookies with a touch of elegance while keeping things plant-based. Vegan Amaretti Cookies have a balanced flavor and soft texture that feels different but equal to classic versions. They’re great for anyone trying to stay dairy-free without sacrificing great dessert options. A friendly nod to tradition for modern vegan eaters.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Amaretti Cookies
Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Sweet and slightly rich, these cookies bring unexpected fruit into dessert time. Chocolate Cherry Cookies mix the boldness of chocolate with a softer cherry touch, perfect for those who want variety in every bite. They’re not your regular cookie, and that’s what makes them worth baking. Easy to enjoy and a little different.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Cookie Monster Cookies

Cookies don’t have to be complicated to be fun. Cookie Monster Cookies bring a playful name and a mix of colors that make snack time exciting for everyone. They’re simple but definitely catch attention with their unique look and idea. A good option to brighten up dessert time without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Monster Cookies
The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Whether you’re vegan or not, these cookies easily become a favorite. The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies combine rich flavor without the need for dairy or eggs, making them a great choice for anyone. You won’t miss traditional ingredients in this recipe. They hold their own as a standout cookie option.
Get the Recipe: The Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Bringing a sandwich favorite into cookie format, this recipe is fun to try. Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie balances flavors you already love in this fresh dessert idea. It’s simple but feels like a creative twist several steps ahead of basic cookies. One bite and it’s easy to see why people enjoy this one.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie
Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

If you’re looking for something familiar but soft, this recipe answers the call. Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies incorporate minted chocolate flavor into a chewy version of classic cookies. They’re easy to love if mint and chocolate are your go-to mix. A cookie that feels fresh yet cozy at the same time.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies
Vegan Sugar Cookies

For sugar cookie purists who prefer plant-based options, these hit the mark. Vegan Sugar Cookies keep the traditional flavor but turn ingredients into a choice for vegans. They’re straightforward and always a crowd-pleaser. A great balance between old-school dessert and modern eating habits.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sugar Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Dessert doesn’t have to be one or the other when this option exists. Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies bring the richness of cake into cookie form with all the extra flavors you’d expect. It’s hard not to appreciate the crossover appeal here. Another great way to try something different in cookie form.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies
Heart Shaped Cookies

Putting a little design twist to cookies is always appealing, and this recipe creates that charm. Heart Shaped Cookies focus on uniqueness in presentations while still offering great flavor. They’re a perfect idea for themed parties or just to make your baking feel a little more special. Easy to prepare and fun to share.
Get the Recipe: Heart Shaped Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Turning cinnamon rolls into something easy to grab and eat, this re-creation nails it. Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies take familiar warm flavors and mix them into cookie size for convenience. They’re worth making if you enjoy bold spices and smooth combos. Comforting and just a little fun to bake.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies
Chocolate Chip Cookies

The classic with no frills at all, this option stays as popular today as ever. Chocolate Chip Cookies are reliable and full of flavor from every bite, a good comfort option for any occasion. They’re what people turn to when nothing else feels quite right. Hard to go wrong choosing this old favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Cookies
Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

A cookie that combines a muffin-like flavor for a softer dessert idea. Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies bring fruity sweetness with a subtle touch that’s perfect for any time. They’re a fun alternative to heavier dessert choices. If balance is what you want, these have it.
Get the Recipe: Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies
About the Author

Hey there! I’m Mandy
Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.
She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.
She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.
