Indulge in the sweet world of Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa herself, with these 20 irresistible cookie recipes that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends. From classic treats like Chocolate Chunk Cookies to creative twists like Maple Walnut Cookies, each recipe is a masterclass in comfort baking.
In this collection, you’ll find cookies that are perfect for snacking, sharing, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of nuts, spices, or rich chocolate, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to bake up some memories with Ina Garten’s most delicious cookie recipes yet.
Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy and delicious cookies packed with semi-sweet chocolate chunks.
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 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. 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 the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chunks.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. 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 per batch
Lemon Butter Cookies
These sweet and tangy cookies are perfect for a sunny afternoon treat or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family. With a hint of lemon zest and a rich butter flavor, they’re sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 tbsp granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 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 and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add lemon juice and zest; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the 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.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
These classic cookies are a staple for any snack time or dessert occasion. With the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted 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, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in raisins.
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
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Classic Treat with a Nutty Twist
These chewy cookies combine the richness of peanut butter with the decadence of chocolate chips, making them a perfect snack or dessert.
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 teaspoon 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. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugars and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then stir in chocolate chips.
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
Almond Shortbread Cookies
A classic shortbread recipe infused with the delicate flavor of almonds, perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
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 confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in granulated sugar, sliced almonds, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Double Chocolate Cookies
Satisfy your chocolate cravings with these rich and fudgy double chocolate cookies. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert, they’re sure to please both kids and adults!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 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 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chunks (at least 60% cocoa)
– 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 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, then stir in chocolate chips and chunks.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ginger Molasses Cookies
Get cozy with these sweet and spicy treats, perfect for a chilly evening or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dark molasses
– 2 large eggs
– Decorative sugar or chopped crystallized ginger 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, ground ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and mix until combined.
4. Beat in eggs until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the 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 the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Pecan Sandies
Classic Pecan Sandies Recipe
These buttery shortbread cookies are a staple of Southern baking, with the perfect balance of crunch and chew. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour, salt, and baking soda; mix until just combined.
4. Stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Coconut Macaroons
These chewy and sweet coconut macaroons are a classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a batch of these delicious cookies ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg white
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine coconut, sugar, flour, and baking powder. Stir until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg white and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 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.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Snickerdoodle Cookies
Classic snickerdoodles are a staple of American baking, with their signature cinnamon-sugar flavor and soft, chewy texture. This recipe yields a batch of deliciously tender cookies that are perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) 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 and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Roll each ball in cinnamon-sugar mixture.
6. Place balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with the addition of rich espresso and dark chocolate chips. These chewy treats are perfect for satisfying any coffee or chocolate craving.
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 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1 tbsp instant espresso powder
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 vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, followed by chocolate chips and espresso powder.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the richness of white chocolate with the tartness of fresh cranberries, perfect for a sweet treat or holiday gift-giving.
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 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
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 sugar until light and fluffy. Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler; let cool slightly.
4. Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Stir in flour mixture, then melted white chocolate, and finally cranberries.
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 lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Get cozy with these soft and chewy pumpkin spice cookies, perfect for snacking or sharing at your next gathering. With a hint of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, these treats will transport you to the crisp autumn air.
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 canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 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. 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, then stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
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.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Black and White Cookies
Classic Black and White Cookies Recipe
These iconic cookies have been a staple of New York City bakeries since the early 20th century. With their distinctive black and white color scheme, these chewy treats are perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Black and white frosting (see below for recipe)
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 vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Black and White Frosting:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons milk or heavy cream
Combine powdered sugar, butter, and milk in a bowl until smooth. Divide the frosting into two portions and add food coloring as needed to create black and white colors.
Brown Sugar Cookies
Sweet and chewy brown sugar cookies are a classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple recipe yields soft, deliciously flavored cookies with a hint of caramel-like sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp 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, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients 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
Maple Walnut Cookies
These chewy cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the richness of maple syrup and the crunch of walnuts. A delicious 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 granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 large eggs
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 maple syrup and eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in walnuts.
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.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your snack game with these crumbly shortbread cookies smothered in velvety chocolate. Perfect for a quick indulgence or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- Optional: sprinkles or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
- Mix flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter; blend until a dough forms.
- Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
- Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate; place on parchment-lined surface to set.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies!
Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies
These chewy sugar cookies are infused with the warm, comforting flavor of vanilla bean and a hint of sweetness from pure cane sugar. 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 granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste (or 1/4 tsp vanilla powder)
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration (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 sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in vanilla bean paste (or powder).
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cherry Almond Thumbprint Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With their adorable thumbprint shape and vibrant red color, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
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 together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and almond extract.
4. Stir in flour mixture, cherries, and almonds.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for a snack or dessert. With the natural sweetness of bananas and the wholesome goodness of oats, you’ll love every bite!
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
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, sugar, and salt.
3. Add mashed bananas, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. If using, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips. Fold into the dough.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat with Ina Garten’s irresistible cookie recipes! From classic favorites like Chocolate Chunk and Oatmeal Raisin, to unique twists like Lemon Butter and Espresso Chocolate Chip, these 20 delicious recipes are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a perfect snack or a show-stopping dessert, Ina’s cookies are sure to please. So go ahead, get baking, and indulge in the delightful world of cookies!
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