There’s a special joy that comes with baking, especially when it involves the rich, irresistible flavors of cookie dough. One memorable evening, while rummaging through my pantry, I stumbled upon a tub of edible cookie dough left over from an ambitious dessert project. It sparked the idea for my latest recipe: Bakery-Style Cookie Dough Cookies.
These cookies are the ultimate indulgence for those who cherish the sweet, gooey goodness of cookie dough. Imagine biting into a thick, soft cookie topped with creamy brown sugar frosting, studded with generous chunks of edible cookie dough and mini chocolate chips. They are not just cookies; they’re an experience, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Easy to whip up and unbelievably satisfying, these treats turn any ordinary day into a delightful celebration of flavor. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this heavenly recipe!
Why are these Cookie Dough Cookies a must-try?
Indulgence at Its Finest: These cookie dough cookies pack a delicious punch with their thick, soft texture and a luscious frosting that brings joy in every bite.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have homemade treats ready in no time!
Fun Flavor Combinations: Customize with your favorite chocolate types or even add nuts for a delightful twist.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dessert night, these cookies are bound to impress everyone.
Texture Galore: The combination of soft cookie and chewy edible cookie dough creates a uniquely satisfying experience.
Satisfying Sweetness: The rich flavor from brown sugar and chocolate chips will have you reaching for seconds! Enjoy these delightful creations today.
Cookie Dough Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – A rich base for texture; substitute with margarine if desired.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness; dark brown sugar gives a deeper flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and gives a crisp edge.
• Eggs – Essential for moistness; flax eggs make a great vegan alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Amplifies the cookie flavor; opt for pure extract for best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; use a gluten-free blend for gluten-free cookies.
• Cornstarch – Contributes to softness; optional, but it enhances texture.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Key leavening agents; adjustments affect texture.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness perfectly; never skip this ingredient.
For the Frosting
• Powdered Sugar – Ensures delicious sweetness with a smooth finish.
• Milk – Helps in achieving the right consistency; use dairy-free options if needed.
• Vanilla Extract – Compliments the sweetness; add a touch for extra flavor.
For the Toppings
• Edible Cookie Dough – Homemade or store-bought adds delightful texture; essential for the cookie dough theme.
• Mini Chocolate Chips – Bursts of chocolate goodness; swap with regular chocolate chips for variety.
Now that you have all the essentials laid out, let’s get baking these delightful cookie dough cookies!
How to Make Cookie Dough Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Ensure your oven is hot enough for that perfect bake—this is the first step to deliciousness!
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Mix Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This creates a rich base for your cookies.
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Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined, ensuring everything is smooth and creamy, which adds flavor and moisture.
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Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until just incorporated. Aim for a well-blended mixture without overmixing to keep your cookies tender.
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Form Cookies: Scoop dough portions of 2-3 tablespoons onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, flattening them slightly with your hand for a nice shape.
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Bake: Cook for 11-14 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops appear dry. They should be lightly golden; then cool completely on a wire rack.
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Make Frosting: In a clean bowl, beat together the butter, powdered sugar, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy, creating that irresistible topping.
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Prepare Edible Cookie Dough: If you’re making homemade edible cookie dough, heat-treat your flour first, mix the dough ingredients, and roll into small balls; chill until needed for that delicious texture!
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Frost and Decorate: Once cookies are cooled, spread the creamy frosting on top and add the mini chocolate chips and chunks of edible cookie dough for an extra treat!
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over the tops for an elegant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cookie Dough Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator—this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can make the edible cookie dough up to 3 days ahead, just ensure it’s properly chilled to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto your baking sheet and bake as directed—no need to let it sit out first! This way, you’ll have delicious, freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a little sweeter.
How to Store and Freeze Cookie Dough Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store your cookie dough cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This keeps them perfectly soft and chewy.
- Fridge: For frosted cookie dough cookies, it’s best to keep them in the fridge to prolong freshness. They can last up to 10 days when properly stored.
- Freezer: Freeze your unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just scoop and freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a zip-top bag.
- Reheating: To enjoy your frozen cookie dough cookies, bake straight from frozen, adding an extra minute to the baking time. This ensures they’re soft and delicious!
Cookie Dough Cookies Variations
Feel free to customize your cookie dough cookies with these delightful twists and swaps that will excite your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious gluten-free treat. This swap ensures everyone can indulge in the joy of cookie dough cookies!
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Nutty Goodness: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the dough for extra crunch and flavor. The richness of nuts complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Flavorful Extracts: Try using almond or hazelnut extract in the dough for a unique kick. Just a hint can transform your cookies into an aromatic experience!
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and butter with coconut oil for a plant-based delight. These adjustments keep the rich flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.
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Chocolate Overload: Swap mini chocolate chips with dark chocolate chunks for a more decadent treat. The intense chocolate flavor pairs wonderfully with the sweet cookie dough.
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Salted Caramel Twist: Drizzle some homemade salted caramel sauce on top before serving for a luxurious touch. The sweet and salty combination is simply divine!
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Fruit Infusion: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a fruity explosion. This adds a surprising and delightful tartness to the cookie experience.
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Spicy Surprise: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the batter for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness. It’s an adventurous twist you didn’t know you needed!
Expert Tips for Cookie Dough Cookies
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Heat-Treat Flour: Always heat-treat your flour to eliminate harmful bacteria when making edible cookie dough; this is a crucial step for safety.
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Mix Wisely: Avoid overmixing after adding dry ingredients; stopping when just incorporated leads to soft, chewy cookie dough cookies.
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Cooling is Key: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting them, as warm cookies can melt the frosting and affect the final look.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to swap mini chocolate chips with your favorite chocolate or add nuts for varied textures and flavors.
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Store with Care: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain their freshness and softness.
What to Serve with Cookie Dough Cookies?
These indulgent delights pair perfectly with a variety of scrumptious sides to elevate your dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness serves as a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies, creating a classic dessert combo.
- Chocolate Milkshake: Rich and chocolatey, this shake is a fun way to enjoy an old-time favorite boost against the sweetness of the cookies.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness from strawberries or raspberries cuts through the sweetness beautifully, adding a refreshing note to your dessert spread.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel adds a luscious sweetness that’s irresistible on top of both cookies and ice cream.
- Espresso or Coffee: The deep, robust flavors of coffee can balance out the sweetness, making a perfect pairing for those afternoon treats.
- Creamy Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy, a dollop on top of warm cookies creates a pleasant texture contrast, enhancing the overall indulgence.
- Milk: The ultimate classic! The cool, refreshing nature of milk complements the richness and sweetness of the cookies, making it a must-have pairing.
- Nutty Trail Mix: The crunch of a nutty blend provides a satisfying textural contrast and a nutty flavor that enhances the cookie experience.
- Peanut Butter Cup Milkshake: For a truly indulgent treat, blend a peanut butter cup with milk and ice cream for a thick and delicious shake to enjoy with your cookies.
Cookie Dough Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my cookie dough cookies?
When selecting ripe ingredients, particularly for the butter, ensure it’s at room temperature for easier creaming. If you’re using eggs, make sure they are fresh, with no cracks or unpleasant smells. Only use flour without dark spots, and check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness—if they don’t bubble when tested, it’s time for a replacement!
How should I store my cookie dough cookies?
Store your cookie dough cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you notice them starting to harden, place a slice of bread in the container; it helps keep the cookies soft! Frosted cookies should always be kept in the refrigerator for optimal freshness and can last up to 10 days.
Can I freeze cookie dough cookies? How do I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze your cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. First, scoop them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the dough balls into a zip-top bag, labeling them with the date. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute to the typical baking time for perfectly soft cookies.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky or too dry?
If your cookie dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, which often solves the problem. If it’s too dry, gradually add a tablespoon of milk to the dough until it’s the right consistency. Remember, when mixing, to stop as soon as the ingredients are combined to avoid dry cookies.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
When making cookie dough cookies, take note of allergies. You can easily make them nut-free by omitting any nuts, and for those with gluten sensitivities, use a gluten-free flour blend. If anyone has a dairy allergy, substitute dairy-free butter and milk for the frosting. Always check the labels on packaged ingredients to be sure they meet dietary needs!
Irresistible Cookie Dough Cookies with Creamy Frosting Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Ensure your oven is hot enough for that perfect bake.
- In a large bowl, cream together unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until just incorporated.
- Scoop dough portions of 2-3 tablespoons onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, flattening slightly.
- Cook for 11-14 minutes until the edges are set and tops appear dry; cool completely on a wire rack.
- In a clean bowl, beat together the butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- If making homemade edible cookie dough, heat-treat the flour, mix ingredients, roll into small balls, and chill until needed.
- Once cookies are cooled, spread the creamy frosting on top and add mini chocolate chips and chunks of edible cookie dough.