In the world of baking, few names evoke the same sense of warm, comforting nostalgia as Ina Garten. The Barefoot Contessa herself has built a reputation for crafting elegant yet approachable dishes that never fail to impress. And when it comes to cookies, Ina knows how to bring her A-game. Her decadent creations are the perfect treat to satisfy any sweet tooth – and we’re not just talking about your run-of-the-mill chocolate chip cookie. No, Ina’s got a whole arsenal of show-stopping recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 of Ina’s most mouth-watering cookie recipes, from classic flavors like oatmeal raisin and peanut butter to more adventurous combinations featuring white chocolate, macadamia nuts, and even espresso. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these irresistible treats are sure to hit the spot.
Chocolate Chunk Cookies
A sweet treat that’s perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings, these chunky cookies are a classic favorite.
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. 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.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chunks.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Classic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
These soft-baked cookies are a staple of any cookie jar, with the perfect balance of chewy oatmeal and sweet raisins.
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 tbsp vanilla extract
– 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, oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in raisins.
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.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
These classic cookies are a perfect blend of peanut butter goodness and chocolatey sweetness. With a hint of saltiness, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
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, at room temperature
– 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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugars; beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. Stir in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet lemon crinkle cookies, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
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. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add lemon juice, vanilla extract, and flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 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 to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Brown Butter Shortbread Cookies
Take a step into classic British baking with these delectable Brown Butter Shortbread Cookies, perfect for dunking in tea or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 and 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the flour and stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, rectangles, or use a cookie cutter).
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Pecan Sandies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with the rich flavor of pecans and a touch of vanilla, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Fold in chopped pecans and vanilla extract.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of white chocolate with the crunch of macadamia nuts, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
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 butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Molasses Spice Cookies
Warmly Spiced Molasses Cookies Recipe
These classic cookies are a staple of winter baking, with the rich flavor of molasses and the warmth of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and eggs; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
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
Almond Biscotti
Elevate your snack game with these crunchy, flavorful almond biscotti perfect for dipping in coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, almonds, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide dough into 2 equal parts. Shape each part into a log, about 12 inches long.
6. Place logs on prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Reduce temperature to 325°F (165°C).
8. Slice logs into 1/2-inch thick slices. Place slices cut side down on baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Double Chocolate Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these rich and decadent double chocolate cookies, perfect for a treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
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 set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Macaroons
These chewy treats are a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy these delicious coconut macaroons in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 large egg white
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
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 salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the egg white until stiff peaks form. Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the coconut mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each macaroon.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Snickerdoodle Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with a sweet and spicy flavor from the cinnamon and sugar combination, making them a classic favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons 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, cream of tartar, and salt.
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.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Roll each ball in cinnamon sugar to coat.
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.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black and White Cookies
A timeless favorite, these cookies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy white centers.
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 blackstrap molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure 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, about 2 minutes.
4. Add molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until a dough forms.
6. Divide dough in half. Roll each half into a log, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies
Classic gingerbread cookies are a holiday season staple, filling your home with the warm aromas of spices and baked goods. This simple recipe yields soft, chewy, and flavorful treats that are perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 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, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
These buttery cookies are filled with a sweet and tangy raspberry jam, making them the perfect combination of flavors. With just a few ingredients, you can have a batch of these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 cup raspberry jam
– 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 soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cookie.
6. Make a small indentation in each cookie and fill with about 1/4 tsp of raspberry jam.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Walnut Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the rich flavors of maple syrup and toasted walnuts for a sweet and satisfying treat.
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 pure maple syrup
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (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. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in maple syrup and eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in walnuts.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these indulgent Espresso Chocolate Chip Cookies, packed with the intense flavor of freshly brewed espresso and dark chocolate chips. Perfect for coffee lovers and anyone seeking a sophisticated treat.
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
– 1/4 cup freshly brewed espresso (or strong coffee)
– 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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in espresso and chocolate chips.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cookies
Start your fall festivities with these warm-spiced cookies infused with the sweetness of pumpkin and warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1 large egg
– Decorative sugar, 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.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
5. Beat in egg until smooth.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Shortbread Jam Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies are infused with a sweet and tangy jam filling, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a batch of these delicious cookies ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup jam (your choice of flavor)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for added texture and color
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. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
4. Spoon a small amount of jam onto one half of each cookie, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the cookie over the jam and press edges together to seal.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Toffee Pecan Cookies
A classic cookie recipe with a sweet twist, these Toffee Pecan Cookies combine the richness of toffee and pecans for a delicious treat.
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
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup toffee bits (such as Heath bars)
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 butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in pecans and toffee bits.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest of treats with Ina Garten’s decadent cookie recipes! From classic favorites like Chocolate Chunk Cookies and Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, to creative twists like Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies and Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies, these mouthwatering treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re a fan of nuts, spices, or chocolate, Ina’s recipes offer something for everyone. With this collection of 20 irresistible cookie recipes, you’ll be the MVP of holiday gatherings, potlucks, and everyday snacking.
