15 Cookies That Are Better Than Grandma’s (Shh! Don’t Tell Grandma!)

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15 Cookies That Are Better Than Grandma’s (Shh! Don’t Tell Grandma!)

When it comes to cookies, the secret is always in the batch. Our 15 cookies have been crafted to offer a variety of experiences, all while maintaining a home-cooked quality that might just rival grandma’s—though we’d never say it too loudly. Each cookie is made with careful attention to texture and taste, ensuring every bite is as enjoyable as the last.

Low angle shot of rugelach cookies filled with chocolate and pecans.
Chocolate Rugelach. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Lemon Coconut Macaroons

Low angle shot of lemon coconut macaroons on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.
Lemon Coconut Macaroons. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

You won’t find a more refreshing treat than Lemon Coconut Macaroons. They blend a tropical coconut vibe with a bright citrus twist. Perfect for a sunny day snack, they’re hard to resist after just one. Best of all, they stay chewy and delicious days after baking.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Coconut Macaroons

Kolacky

Several poppy seed filled kolacky on a white plate with red and gold ribbons in the background.
Kolacky. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Kolacky offer a nod to Eastern European traditions, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a classic treat. Often served during holidays, they are a favorite at family gatherings. Their soft, pastry-like texture makes them a comforting choice with tea or coffee. While typically filled, these keep things simple and focus on the dough’s subtle sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Kolacky

German Chocolate Macarons

German chocolate macarons with chocolate ganache drizzle.
German Chocolate Macarons. Photo credit: Eggs.

Combining the sophistication of French macarons with rich, German-inspired filling, German Chocolate Macarons are a crowd-pleaser. Each bite offers a crunch followed by a melt-in-your-mouth filling. They’re ideal for anyone who enjoys a touch of elegance in their desserts. You can serve them at dinner parties to impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Macarons

Ginger Snaps

Low angle shot of a single gingersnap cookie broken in half.
Ginger Snaps. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ginger Snaps are perfect for those who love a spice-forward snack. With a crisp texture, they pair excellently with a warm cup of tea or a glass of milk. Ideal for the cooler months, they bring a hint of warmth and comfort. They’re also robust enough to hold up well in packed lunches or afternoon treats.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Snaps

Salted Toffee Cookie Bars

Stack of 3 toffee cookies.
Salted Toffee Cookie Bars. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For fans of sweet and salty combinations, Salted Toffee Cookie Bars are irresistible. They’re substantial enough to be fulfilling but not so rich that you can’t enjoy a full piece. These cookie bars are ideal for sharing, they make a great addition to any potluck.
Get the Recipe: Salted Toffee Cookie Bars

Flourless Chocolate Cookies

Overhead shot of cookies on a white cloth with a glass of milk.
Flourless Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Flourless Chocolate Cookies are rich, chocolatey, and incredibly moist. They cater to those who prefer gluten-free options without compromising on taste. Perfect for chocolate lovers, they make a bold statement on any dessert table. Despite their richness, they are surprisingly airy and not overly dense.
Get the Recipe: Flourless Chocolate Cookies

Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Stack of peanut butter cookies on a wooden board with a small bowl of peanut butter and a striped napkin.
Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy treat, Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies are the way to go. Made in an air fryer, they offer a unique cooking method that enhances their flavor. They’re chunky, with a slightly crisp exterior and a gooey middle. A great option for an after-school snack or a quick dessert.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Black Sesame Cookies

Black sesame cookies on a baking sheet with a spoonful of black sesame seeds.
Black Sesame Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Black Sesame Cookies stand out with their distinctive color and nutty taste. They’re perfect for those who appreciate an Asian twist on traditional sweets. Not too sweet, they offer a sophisticated alternative to more common varieties. They pair beautifully with green tea or a simple black coffee.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Cookies

Dulce de Leche Cookies

Overhead shot of dulce de leche cookies.
Dulce de Leche Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Have you tried Dulce de Leche Cookies? They’re crafted for those who love a rich, creamy treat in every bite. Each cookie provides a comforting, indulgent escape perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Keep a batch on hand to impress guests or enjoy a quiet moment with a cup of tea.
Get the Recipe: Dulce de Leche Cookies

Rhubarb Cookies

Stacked rhubarb cookies with slices of rhubarb.
Rhubarb Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Enjoy the tart surprise of rhubarb in these distinctive cookies. Rhubarb Cookies are ideal for sharing at garden parties or spring gatherings, they offer a fresh twist on classic cookie enjoyment. Keep these cookies in mind for those who appreciate a less traditional, fruity dessert option.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Cookies

Hamentashen

Hamentashen cookies piled on a white plate with more cookies on a rack in the background. There is jar of jam with a spoon in it in the background too.
Hamentashen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Celebrate with Hamentashen, traditionally enjoyed during festive seasons. They feature a triangular shape that encloses a variety of fillings, each adding its own character to the cookie. Hamentashen are perfect for anyone looking to add a cultural touch to their dessert table. Serve these at your next gathering to spark conversations about traditions and favorite fillings.
Get the Recipe: Hamentashen

Caramel Whoopie Pies

A plate of caramel sandwich cookies on a white plate.
Caramel Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Think of a soft, cake-like treat that comes alive with a luscious caramel filling. Caramel Whoopie Pies are a modern take on a classic. Ideal for parties or as a special treat, they promise a delicious bite every time. Why settle for ordinary when you can indulge in these irresistible pies?
Get the Recipe: Caramel Whoopie Pies

Meringue

Meringue on crumpled parchment paper bag on a wooden table.
Meringue. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Light and crisp, Meringue melts in your mouth, offering a whisper of sweetness. They are the epitome of elegance in the cookie world, perfect for those who prefer their desserts airy and delicate. Serve them as an exquisite finale to a dinner party or pair them with your afternoon coffee for a sublime treat. Their simplicity is their strength, making them a favorite among dessert aficionados.
Get the Recipe: Meringue

Chocolate Rugelach

Low angle shot of rugelach cookies filled with chocolate and pecans.
Chocolate Rugelach. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Chocolate Rugelach is a delicious fusion of chocolate wrapped in a soft, flaky pastry. They are rolled with care and baked to perfection, offering a comforting chocolatey touch to your snack time. Perfect for sharing with loved ones over a cup of coffee, each piece tells a story of tradition and warmth. Rugelach is always a hit, especially for those who can’t resist a good chocolate treat.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Rugelach

Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon

Low-angled shot of a honey cookie broken in half with stacks of honey cookies and a glass of milk in the background.
Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ideal for festive seasons or as a treat to brighten a regular day, Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon are sure to be a hit. Add to that the natural sweetness of honey, and you have a cookie that’s both comforting and invigorating. Keep a batch ready for when you need a sweet lift.
Get the Recipe: Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon

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