Summer is in full swing, bringing with it a sense of freedom and endless possibilities. For many parents, the season also means finding ways to keep their kids engaged and entertained. One tried-and-true solution is baking cookies that capture the essence of summer. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to end a hectic day or a delightful addition to your next picnic or potluck, summer cookie recipes are the perfect answer. And the best part?
They’re easy to make and fun for kids to participate in. Not only do they provide a great way to teach kids about reaping the rewards of their hard work, but they’re also sure to be a hit at family gatherings or holiday celebrations. When it comes to choosing the best cookies for summer, you’re spoiled for choice. With categories like molded, dropped, rolled, pressed, refrigerator, bar, no-bake, filled, and sandwich cookies, there’s something for everyone.
And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, be sure to check out our summer cookie icing ideas for inspiration. After all, what’s more iconic than a classic chocolate chip cookie? So why not dive into our list of thirty-five summer cookie recipes and find the perfect way to make this season one to remember?
Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
Indulge in the sweet taste of summer with a clever twist on classic cookie making. By starting with a boxed cake mix, you can quickly whip up a batch of scrumptious iced strawberry lemonade cookies that are perfect for savoring after dinner or serving at your next outdoor gathering.
With just a handful of additional ingredients including strawberries, lemons, eggs, oil, flour, and powdered sugar, these delightful treats are elevated to new heights.
The tangy frosting made with sugar and lemon juice adds a bright and zesty flavor that will leave everyone wanting more!
Root Beer Float Sugar Cookies
Summer just wouldn’t be the same without the sweet and creamy combination of root beer floats. It’s only natural, then, to want to bring that nostalgic flavor into your baking with summer cookie recipes featuring a root beer twist. And what better way to do so than by infusing the cookies themselves as well as their accompanying icing with the rich, velvety taste of root beer?
With this approach, you’re free to tailor the strength of the flavor to your liking, whether you prefer a subtle hint or a more pronounced nod to the classic summertime treat.
Lemon Cookies
Summer just got a whole lot sweeter with these irresistible lemon cookies. The perfect blend of sweet and tangy, they’re an absolute delight that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. With every bite, you’ll feel like you’re walking on sunshine – it’s that good!
Soft & Chewy S’mores Cookies
Indulging in s’mores over a campfire is a quintessential summer experience. But what if you could bring this joy indoors? Our summer cookie recipe combines the classic elements of graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate to create a treat that’s sure to delight kids and adults alike. And, to take it to the next level, we’ve added some extra chocolate chips for an added burst of flavor. With these cookies, you can expect nothing but smiles all around!
Roasted Coconut Crunch Cookies
Summer just got a whole lot tastier with the introduction of tropical flavors in these crowd-pleasing cookies, featuring the perfect combination of shredded coconut and hearty oats. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – since there’s no melting involved, you can confidently serve them at outdoor gatherings or package them up as a thoughtful treat for friends and family, without worrying about temperature fluctuations ruining the party.
Frosted Amish Cherry Sugar Cookies
I’m a self-proclaimed sugar cookie connoisseur, and I’ve yet to encounter one that doesn’t win me over. So, when you combine summer-inspired cookie icing ideas with a classic cherry-flavored sugar cookie, it’s a match made in heaven! The secret to this sweet success lies in the use of Maraschino cherries, which cleverly maintain the cookie’s chewy center while infusing the frosting with their signature juice.
To preserve the cookies’ fresh-baked appeal, it’s essential to store them in the refrigerator once frosted.
Chewy Patriotic Brownie Cookies
Calling all chocolate enthusiasts! The search for the perfect patriotic treat doesn’t have to end at traditional cookie flavors. This summer, why not shake things up with a creative twist on classic red, white, and blue desserts? Start by using a rich chocolate brownie mix as the base for your festive baked goods. The combination of deep, velvety chocolate and playful patriotic M&Ms is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Sand Dollar Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Indulge in the whimsical charm of these delectable summer cookies, which masquerade as delicate sand or sand dollars. Beneath their sandy disguise lies a sweet and crunchy cinnamon sugar cookie, crafted with precision using easy-to-follow instructions. The crowning touch? A scattering of sliced almonds that meticulously recreate the intricate patterns of nature’s own masterpieces.
Lime Crinkle Cookies
Savoring the essence of summer, it’s no surprise that tart cookie enthusiasts will find solace in these revitalizing lime crinkle cookies. The starting point is an unassuming box of vanilla cake mix, which then takes on a zesty twist with the addition of fresh lime juice and zest, complemented by oil and sugar. The resulting dough is effortlessly shaped into balls before being rolled in a generous coating of powdered sugar to prepare them for their trip to the oven.
To finish, these sweet treats are further embellished with an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar and a pinch of lime zest, yielding a visually stunning presentation that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.
Super Soft Sugar Sprinkle Pudding Cookies
Imagine a world where every bite brings a smile to your face – that’s exactly what these summer cookies promise to deliver. The secret to their irresistible charm lies in the incorporation of sprinkles directly into the dough, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the cookie. But that’s not all; the real game-changer is the unexpected addition of instant vanilla pudding mix, which adds a rich and creamy depth to each delicious morsel.
Strawberry Cookies
What sets these summer cookies apart is the addition of real strawberries, carefully chopped and incorporated into the dough. The sheer genius of this move lies in the strategic choice of using less juicy strawberries, ensuring the batter maintains its firmness throughout. With simple, easy-to-follow instructions, it’s incredibly straightforward to whip up a batch – just be sure not to devour them all too quickly!
Animal Circus Cookies
Imagine sinking your teeth into a delectable summer cookie that’s as playful as it is delicious. This unique recipe transforms cake mix and sprinkles into the perfect dough, which is then formed into balls and chilled to perfection before baking. The real pièce de résistance, however, is the exceptional icing recipe that’s taken to new heights with an animal circus cookie perched proudly on top.
No Bake Cookies Without Peanut Butter
When the scorching heat makes even the thought of baking unbearable, a no-bake cookie recipe is the perfect solution. But don’t worry, it’s not entirely oven-free – just a brief stint on the stovetop is required to bring together sugar, salt, butter, and milk to a rolling boil. This mixture then comes together with the rich flavors of cocoa, hearty oats, and a hint of vanilla. The result? Spoonfuls of deliciousness that can be cooled and enjoyed straight from the wax paper.
Almond Joy Cookies
Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors that summer cookies have to offer, requiring only a handful of essential ingredients. To begin, gather sweetened condensed milk, sweetened shredded coconut, semi-sweet chocolate chips, sliced almonds, and pure vanilla essence. These scrumptious treats are characterized by their nutty undertones, rich chocolatey flavor, chewy texture, and overall delectability.
Soft-Batch Mini M&M & Chocolate Chip Cookies
When it comes to summer cookies that impress a crowd, M&Ms are the perfect addition. In fact, we’re talking about mini M&Ms here, paired with mini chocolate chips for a match made in heaven. The combination is so divine that you’ll be hard-pressed not to return to this recipe again and again. With each bite, you’ll swear you’ve bitten into a freshly baked cookie from your favorite bakery – it’s that good!
Ice Cream Sandwich Bar With Cookies
Hosting a summer party doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor for quantity. By incorporating a cookie bar with an array of sweet treats, you can cater to a crowd’s cravings while keeping things fun and engaging. The concept is simple yet genius: offer a variety of cookies and let guests create their own ice cream sandwiches by pairing their favorite flavors. It’s a win-win situation, as both kids and adults alike will appreciate the opportunity to customize their sweet treats.
This post provides a step-by-step guide on how to set up this delightful cookie bar, ensuring your summer soiree is an unforgettable experience for all.
Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies
While classic summer cookie tray ideas are always a hit, it’s refreshing to mix things up with some unexpected twists. In this case, we’re swapping out traditional oatmeal cookies for a more sophisticated take featuring dark chocolate chips and fresh chopped cherries. The result is a truly grown-up treat that will impress your guests and satisfy their sweet tooth. Ditch the raisins and try these decadent oatmeal cookies instead.
Pretzel Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Summer just got a whole lot sweeter with these candy-inspired cookies that are sure to become your new favorite treat. As the heat of summer sets in, it’s only natural that we find ways to get rid of any lingering candy stash. This unique recipe brings together an unexpected combination of ingredients – chopped pretzels, Reese’s cups, Reese’s Pieces, peanut butter chips, dark chocolate chips, and peanuts. The result is a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds doing the happy dance.
Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Salted Brown Butter Butterscotch Oatmeal Cookies
The sweet charm of butterscotch has somewhat faded into the background, yet its unique essence still shines through in this recipe. The incorporation of cornflakes adds a delightful surprise texture that elevates the overall experience.
While it may not be at the pinnacle of summer cookies, I firmly believe it’s certainly a contender. The combination of brown sugar, rolled oats, cornflakes, and butterscotch chips yields an undeniable wow factor that leaves a lasting impression.
4th Of July Cake Mix Cookies
Looking for a sweet treat that embodies the spirit of summertime? Look no further than these stunning sugar cookies that rival their patriotic counterparts in terms of flavor and visual appeal. The recipe begins with a rich cake batter, eggs, oil, and a hint of vanilla, setting the stage for a deliciously moist outcome.
Once baked to perfection and cooled to a comfortable temperature, these cookies are then transformed into colorful masterpieces by being dipped in vibrant melting chocolate and adorned with an assortment of festive sprinkles. With every bite, you’ll be transported to a season of sunshine, freedom, and endless possibilities – so go ahead, indulge, and have fun!
Watermelon Cookies
Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, summer cookie that not only looks like a slice of refreshing watermelon but also tastes like one. The mere thought is tantalizing! To bring this vision to life, you could infuse the cookies with watermelon extract for an unparalleled flavor experience. And why stop there? Add some pink cream cheese icing and mini chocolate chips to resemble seeds – it’s the perfect artistic touch!
Cookies & Cream Cookies
Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy cookie that perfectly captures the essence of summer – one that’s infused with the sweet and refreshing flavor of watermelon. And what better way to take it to the next level than by topping it with a tangy pink cream cheese icing? The idea alone is enough to make you crave a dozen or more! If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you could even add an extra boost of watermelon extract to really bring out the flavor.
But what really puts these cookies over the top is the addition of mini chocolate chips sprinkled on top to resemble seeds – it’s the perfect finishing touch that adds a delightful textural element and a pop of color.
Soft Batch Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Looking for more ways to incorporate the bright, citrusy flavor of lemons into your baking? Try pairing these soft and chewy lemon poppy seed cookies with some of our other summer-inspired cookie ideas. The unique texture of these treats, which is reminiscent of a muffin but with a crispy edge, can be attributed to the clever use of cornstarch and honey in their recipe.
And let’s not forget the added elegance provided by the glaze, which features poppy seeds and lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
Summertime Fun Cookies
These summer cookies are the epitome of adorability, perfect for kids! The combination of small pool scenes atop sugar cookies, complete with blue icing, is a match made in heaven. To take it to the next level, Teddy Grahams, goldfish and gummies can be used to let kids personalize their own creations.
Potato Chip Cookies
Summer cookie recipes often focus on sweet or tart flavors, but these unique treats add a savory twist by incorporating crushed salted potato chips into the batter. For those who love the combination of sweet and salty, this recipe is sure to be a hit, as it brings together both rich chocolate chip cookies and crunchy potato chip-infused cookies in one delicious package.
5-Ingredient Gooey Butter Cookies
Summer’s sweetness is often associated with refreshing treats that melt in your mouth, and few satisfy this craving better than simple yet divine butter cookies. Uncomplicated yet indulgent, these chewy morsels are perfect for hot summer days when a light and airy confection is just what you need to brighten up the season. This recipe’s charm lies in its simplicity, requiring only a handful of ingredients: yellow cake mix, rich butter, tangy cream cheese, a single egg, and a hint of vanilla.
The result is an easy-to-make family favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Sugar Cookie Fruit Pizzas
When planning a summer gathering, such as a brunch or party, creating a visually appealing cookie tray is crucial. To make a lasting impression, consider individual cookie fruit pizzas that combine sweet and tangy flavors with vibrant colors. Start by using a soft sugar cookie as the base, then spread a generous amount of creamy cream cheese mixture on top. The real showstopper, however, is the assortment of fresh fruit used to finish each pizza.
Opt for a mix of juicy berries like raspberries and blueberries, or go for something more exotic with kiwi or mango slices.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich
To take things to the next level, this summer cookie recipe is transformed into an ultimate treat by using the freshly baked cookies as the base for ice cream sandwiches. This innovative combination seamlessly merges two delightful treats into one extraordinary experience. At its core, the recipe is centered around classic oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, which already boast a winning combination of flavors.
The magic happens when you place your favorite ice cream between two soft and chewy cookies, then roll them in mini chocolate chips for an added layer of indulgence. Throughout this process, we’ll share valuable tips on how to expertly manage the ice cream and construct the perfect sandwich, ensuring that every bite is nothing short of sublime.
Soft Blueberry Cookies With Lemon Glaze
When crafting summer cookie icing ideas, don’t overlook the simplicity and flavor potential of a delicate drizzle. This subtle yet effective technique can instantly elevate your cookie creations. The perfect example is a combination of soft blueberry cookies topped with a zesty lemon glaze – the sweetness of the blueberries pairs exquisitely with the tanginess of the lemon, making for an unbeatable duo!
Fresh and ripe blueberries are essential in this case to achieve the ideal balance of flavors.
Jello Cookies
Innovative uses for Jello have been a staple since its inception, and this summertime cookie recipe is a prime example of its versatility. The vibrant colors that emerge are nothing short of breathtaking! This project begins with a fundamental sugar cookie recipe, which is then portioned out into multiple bowls to accommodate the various flavors. Next, simply add the Jello and mix until the dough transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors.
The end result is not only visually stunning but also delectable – a true trifecta of creativity, color, and flavor!
Margarita Cookies
Transforming a classic homemade dough for summer cookies into a slice-and-bake style treat infused with the essence of lime and tequila is a game-changer. The addition of sea salt and a chill before baking elevates the flavor profile, evoking the tangy and refreshing qualities of a Margarita. Be warned: these addictive treats may become your go-to contribution for every social gathering – you’ve been warned!
Orange Creamsicle Cookies
The sweetness of summer has taken on a tangy twist with the incorporation of orange flavor into cookie recipes. This unique treat is a far cry from what you may have anticipated. Its inspiration comes from the classic orange creamsicle, but instead of being frozen and served on a stick, this recipe brings that same delightful taste to life using the brightness of orange zest and the richness of white chocolate chips.
Giant Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s nothing quite like the simplicity and joy of a classic chocolate chip cookie recipe, perfect for warm summer days. The secret to achieving that perfect balance of softness on the inside, fluffiness in the middle, and a satisfying crunch on the edges lies in the combination of two types of flour and two types of sugar, with a touch of cornstarch for added texture.
With plenty of helpful tips and details included, you’ll be well-equipped to create a batch of scrumptious cookies that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Despite common misconceptions about peanut butter, it can be an excellent choice for a summer treat if it fits within your dietary preferences. The versatility of peanut butter lies in the ability to select between creamy or crunchy variations for the batter. Additionally, a light dusting of coarse sugar on top before baking adds a delightful touch.
Sugar Cookie Recipe
While many sugar cookie recipes may promise predictable results, this one truly stands out as a reliable favorite. Its consistent flavor and texture make it a go-to option for any time of year, whether you’re baking for a summer gathering or a special occasion. As you get into the rhythm of making these cookies, the steps will become second nature, allowing you to focus on experimenting with different icings and toppings.
The icing recipe linked here is a great starting point for those times when you want to add an extra layer of flavor and decoration.
The bottom line
As we bask in the warmth of summer, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a sweet treat that brings joy and satisfaction. Summer cookies have a way of brightening up our days, wrapping up meals on a delightful note, and putting smiles on our faces! I hope you find one (or two, or three…) of these recipes to be the perfect match for your taste buds.
Whether you’re looking for a sweet pick-me-up after a long day, a thoughtful addition to a picnic spread, or a friendly offering for a neighbor, summer cookies are the answer. So go ahead, get baking, and let the sweetness unfold!
