When it comes to baking cookies, many of us reach for the usual suspects: all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, and of course, butter. But what if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative or simply want to mix things up in the kitchen? Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious cookie recipes that don’t require butter as an ingredient. From classic flavors like chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin, to unique twists like pumpkin spice and matcha green tea, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering butter-free cookie recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy vegan chocolate chip cookies that are perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup vegan butter (melted), such as Earth Balance
– 1 egg replacement (e.g., Ener-G Egg Replacer or flaxseed mixture)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
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, brown sugar, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted vegan butter, egg replacement, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies with Coconut Oil
Warm and chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies with a hint of coconut flavor – perfect for a snack or dessert!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or 1/4 cup coconut oil)
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup raisins
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and coconut oil until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add oats, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix until combined.
5. Stir in raisins and nuts (if using).
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
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
Peanut Butter Cookies with Applesauce
Moist and chewy peanut butter cookies get a delicious twist with the addition of applesauce, creating a sweet and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
• 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 all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup applesauce
• Optional: chopped peanuts 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, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth.
3. Gradually add sugars, beating until combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Add applesauce to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
7. Combine dry and wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
8. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Flour Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies made with almond flour are a perfect treat for those following a gluten-free diet or simply looking for a delicious twist on traditional shortbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in granulated sugar.
5. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Banana Walnut Cookies
These chewy cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the natural sweetness of bananas and the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon 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, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Olive Oil
Warm up your fall season with the comforting aroma and taste of pumpkin spice cookies, infused with the richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large egg
– Vanilla extract (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, oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, olive oil, egg, and vanilla extract (if using).
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: 24-30 cookies
Double Chocolate Avocado Cookies
Satisfy your chocolate cravings with these decadent cookies that combine the creaminess of avocados with the deep flavor of dark cocoa. Perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving, these soft-baked treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 2/3 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup dark cocoa powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed avocados, butter, and sugars. Beat until smooth.
3. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and dark cocoa powder.
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 set. Cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Coconut Macaroons
These chewy treats are a staple of tropical desserts, with the sweetness of coconut and the simplicity of just three ingredients. With this recipe, you’ll be enjoying a batch of fresh macaroons in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine coconut and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple Cinnamon Cookies
These sweet and spicy treats are perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a thoughtful gift. The combination of pure maple syrup and warm cinnamon creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in maple syrup and walnuts (if using).
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. Let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies: Brighten up your day with these tangy and sweet treats that combine the freshness of lemon zest with the crunch of poppy seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– 1 tbsp poppy seeds
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 powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and poppy seeds. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Ginger Molasses Cookies
Warm up with the sweet and spicy aroma of Ginger Molasses Cookies! These soft-baked treats combine the comfort of traditional molasses cookies with the invigorating zing of fresh ginger, perfect for a cozy afternoon or a festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1 large egg
– Salt to taste
– Optional: crystallized ginger for garnish
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, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and egg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the 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
Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the deep flavors of dark chocolate and hazelnuts for a treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 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 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and brown sugar in a medium bowl.
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 flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chopped hazelnuts and dark chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for snacking or as a sweet treat to serve with your morning coffee. The combination of tender apples and warm cinnamon will transport you to a cozy autumn afternoon.
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 brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized apples)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
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. Add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in diced apples and cinnamon.
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 edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Cookies
These refreshing cookies are infused with the bright, grassy flavor of matcha green tea, perfect for a sweet treat that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
– 1 large egg
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture
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 powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in matcha powder and egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
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
Carrot Cake Cookies
These sweet treats combine the classic flavors of carrot cake with the convenience of a cookie. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour, carrots, and walnuts (if using).
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.
7. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat!
These soft-baked cookies combine the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of creamy peanut butter, making them a perfect treat for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts 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 medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Stir in mashed bananas and flour mixture until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dark Chocolate Cherry Cookies
These cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, with the richness of dark chocolate and the burst of cherry flavor. A perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Stir in dark chocolate chips and dried cherries.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pistachio Cardamom Cookies
A unique fusion of Indian spices and American treats, these cookies combine the warmth of cardamom with the crunch of pistachios for a truly distinctive flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cardamom, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in chopped pistachios.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
These classic cookies are perfect for any occasion, with a sweet and tangy raspberry filling adding an extra layer of flavor and fun. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of these delicious treats that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt (if using); mix until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place balls onto prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Use a thumb or finger to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
8. Fill indentation with raspberry preserves.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Snickerdoodle Cookies with Coconut Oil
Snickerdoodle Cookies with Coconut Oil: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the unique flavor of coconut oil, adding a delightful twist to the traditional snickerdoodle recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup coconut oil, softened
– 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, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Note: To make cinnamon sugar, mix together equal parts granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
Summary
Discover 20 scrumptious cookie recipes without butter that you’ll love! From classic flavors like chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin to unique twists like pumpkin spice and matcha green tea, there’s something for everyone. Replace traditional butter with coconut oil, applesauce, or olive oil in these innovative recipes. Enjoy the subtle taste of almond flour in shortbread cookies or the natural sweetness of bananas in walnut cookies. Perfect for vegans, gluten-free enthusiasts, or anyone looking to mix up their baking routine, these delicious treats are sure to satisfy your cravings.
