Are you a sweet tooth who’s tired of the same old cookie recipes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious cookie recipes that don’t use brown sugar. That’s right – all of these scrumptious treats rely on white sugar, honey, maple syrup, or other sweetener alternatives to satisfy your cravings.
From classic chocolate chip cookies to creative concoctions like lemon zest shortbread and pumpkin spice treats, we’ve got a recipe for every cookie lover out there. And the best part? None of them require brown sugar! Whether you’re a fan of chewy textures or crispy edges, these recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
So grab your mixing bowls, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in some seriously sweet treats. In our next section, we’ll be diving into the first 10 cookie recipes on our list – including a classic chocolate chip recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Without Brown Sugar
This recipe yields a classic chocolate chip cookie that’s chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside, without using brown sugar. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated white sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups 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 in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are infused with the warmth of vanilla bean, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 bean, split and scraped (about 1 1/2 tsp)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Add the split vanilla bean to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peanut Butter Cookies with White Sugar
These soft-baked cookies are a nostalgic favorite, with the richness of peanut butter balanced by the sweetness of white sugar. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they’re sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon 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 peanut butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Without Brown Sugar
Classic oatmeal raisin cookies with a twist – no brown sugar needed! These chewy treats are perfect for snacking or packing in lunchboxes.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup raisins
– Pinch of salt
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 oats.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar 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. Stir in raisins and salt.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Zest Shortbread Cookies
Brighten up your day with these buttery shortbread cookies infused with the sweetness of lemon zest and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt to taste
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.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt.
5. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it comes together.
6. Roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
9. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Almond Flour Cookies with White Sugar
A classic cookie recipe with a gluten-free twist, these almond flour cookies are perfect for those looking for a low-carb alternative or wanting to try something new. The addition of white sugar adds a touch of sweetness without overpowering the nutty flavor of the almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup white sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried fruit 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 almond flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and egg until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Coconut Macaroons Without Brown Sugar
These chewy coconut macaroons are a classic dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make without brown sugar. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these sweet and tangy treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
– 1/4 cup egg whites (about 2 large eggs)
– 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 egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the coconut mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each macaroon.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the bottom.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: About 24-30 macaroons
Pumpkin Spice Cookies with White Sugar
Warm up to the flavors of fall with these soft and chewy Pumpkin Spice Cookies, perfectly sweetened with white sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated white sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
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 pumpkin puree and eggs.
4. Add flour mixture, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Snickerdoodles Without Brown Sugar
Snickerdoodles Without Brown Sugar: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Recipe
These chewy cookies are a delightful alternative to traditional snickerdoodles, using white granulated sugar instead of brown sugar. The result is a sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for satisfying your cookie cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
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 cream of tartar. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll dough into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Yield: About 20 cookies
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
A sweet and salty cookie treat that combines the richness of white chocolate with the crunch of macadamia nuts.
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 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1 cup white 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 in a medium bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Gingerbread Cookies Without Brown Sugar
These soft and spicy cookies are a holiday favorite, made without brown sugar for a unique twist. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving, this recipe yields a deliciously sweet and tangy treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 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, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
Classic Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing Recipe
These tender and flavorful sugar cookies are elevated by a rich and creamy royal icing, perfect for decorating and snacking. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these sweet treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 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.
Royal Icing:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar and water in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Experience the refreshing combination of mint and chocolate in these soft-baked cookies.
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 granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (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, use an electric mixer to cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips.
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.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Double Chocolate Cookies Without Brown Sugar
Satisfy your chocolate cravings with these rich and fudgy cookies that skip the brown sugar for a deeper, darker flavor.
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 granulated sugar
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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 sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Allow to cool slightly.
5. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Stir in melted chocolate until smooth.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly gooey.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Raspberries and Cream Cookies
Sweeten your day with these soft-baked cookies infused with the tartness of raspberries and creaminess of vanilla.
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
– 2 tbsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, chopped
– 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. Set aside.
3. 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. Fold in chopped raspberries.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Syrup Sweetened Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with this simple recipe that combines the rich flavor of maple syrup with classic cookie goodness. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to please!
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 granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp 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 together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
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 lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
Warm up your kitchen with these soft and chewy cinnamon sugar cookies, perfect for a cozy treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 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 powder, and cinnamon.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, then roll each ball in cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
6. Place coated cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Orange Cranberry Cookies Without Brown Sugar
Brighten up your baking with these citrusy and flavorful cookies that combine the sweetness of oranges with the tartness of cranberries. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift, these cookies are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in orange juice and cranberries.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Espresso Chocolate Cookies
These indulgent cookies combine the deep flavors of espresso and dark chocolate to create a treat that’s perfect for coffee lovers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, espresso powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
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 and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Honey Sweetened Almond Cookies
A sweet and nutty treat that combines the warmth of honey with the crunch of almonds, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) almond flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) honey
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– Chopped almonds 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 almond flour, sugar, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and honey until smooth. Beat in egg and almond extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Conclusion
Discover 20 scrumptious cookie recipes that don’t require brown sugar! From classic chocolate chip to peanut butter and oatmeal raisin, these sweet treats are perfect for anyone who loves cookies. Recipes include Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies, Pumpkin Spice Cookies, Coconut Macaroons, and many more. Whether you’re a fan of white sugar or want to try something new like maple syrup or honey, there’s something for everyone in this collection of delicious cookie recipes.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
