Easy Homemade Cookies – Soft, Crunchy, Jam-Filled & More

This collection of five distinct homemade cookies offers something for every mood and craving — from buttery melt-in-your-mouth rectangles to crunchy sugar rounds, fruity jam-filled thumbprints, sprinkle-dipped rings, and chewy chocolate coconut macaroons. Each recipe is simple, uses common pantry ingredients, and delivers bakery-quality results with minimal effort. Perfect for everyday treats, gifting, or creating a beautiful holiday cookie tray.

1. Soft Butter Cookies (Plain Rectangular Cookies)

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup (100g) sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt

Instructions

1. Cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step builds the cookie’s tender structure and delicate texture.
2. Mix in the egg and vanilla, beating just until smooth and combined.
3. Add the flour and salt, stirring until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
4. Shape the dough into a log and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough for easier cutting.
5. Slice the chilled dough into neat rectangles and arrange them on a lined baking tray, leaving slight space between each.
6. Bake at 170°C (340°F) for 12–15 minutes, or until the bottoms are just lightly golden. Cool on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
   

   2. Classic Crunchy Sugar Cookies (Round Cookies)