Are these cookies supposed to be so “plain” without chocolate chips?

Absolutely—this recipe celebrates the classic cookie dough flavors. Without chocolate chips, the buttery, brown sugar, and subtle cinnamon notes truly shine.

Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Store the dough in the fridge, tightly wrapped, for up to 48 hours. Chilled dough actually bakes up thicker and even more flavorful.

Help! My cookies turned out too dense. What happened?

This usually means the dough was over-mixed or too much flour was added. Be gentle when folding the dry ingredients into the wet, and when measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it—never scoop!

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, a cup-for-cup gluten-free blend will work. The texture may be slightly different, but the cookies will still be delicious. You may want to add an extra splash of vanilla or a pinch more cinnamon for extra personality.

Chocolate Chipless Cookies Recipe

Name: Chocolate Chipless Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Wet Ingredients; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or sugar substitute) (100g); 1/2 cup light brown sugar (or sugar substitute) (90g); 1 large egg; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; Dry Ingredients; 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g); 3/4 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp baking powder; Pinch of salt; 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon (use 1/4-1/2 tsp if you prefer more cinnamon flavor)

Who says cookies need chocolate chips to be irresistible? These Chocolate Chipless Cookies are pure, golden perfection—soft and chewy in the center, with gloriously crisp edges you’ll savor with every single bite. They come together in less than half an hour from start to finish, making them the ideal treat for those busy weeknights when you’re craving something warm and homemade but don’t want a lot of fuss. The simple combination of caramelized brown sugar, vanilla, and a kiss of cinnamon delivers a nostalgic, classic flavor that’s surprisingly addictive. Sometimes, simplicity really is best!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: These cookies take just a few basic pantry ingredients and about 20 minutes of your time—perfect for fulfilling last-minute dessert cravings.
No Chocolate, No Problem: The flavors really shine without chocolate chips getting in the way. Every bite is all about that classic, sweet cookie dough magic.
Customizable: This recipe is the perfect foundation for experiments. Add nuts, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Uncomplicated Cleanup: Only a couple of bowls needed, and clean-up is a breeze.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even chocolate chip devotees have been converted!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Unsalted Butter: Provides the necessary structure and rich flavor that makes cookies tender.
Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cookies crisp around the edges.
Light Brown Sugar: Brings that deep caramel note and ensures a softer, chewier center.
Egg: Binds the dough, adding moisture and richness.
Pure Vanilla Extract: Infuses the cookies with warm, classic aroma and flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: The essential backbone for the dough—don’t over-mix once added!
Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Team up to ensure just the right amount of spread and a light, slightly puffy texture.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and brightens all the other flavors.
Ground Cinnamon: Just a hint, unless you’re a cinnamon lover, for a subtle warmth and depth.

Tip: These cookies are wonderfully forgiving—feel free to swap a sugar substitute or use coconut oil if you need to, but be prepared for minor texture changes.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

There’s so much space to play with these cookies!

Cinnamon Lovers: Increase the cinnamon for a snickerdoodle-like twist.
Add Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or your favorite toasted nuts.
For a Hint of Fruit: Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins.
Go Classic-ish: If you decide you do want chocolate, toss in your favorite chips, chunks, or even white chocolate.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) for a dairy- and egg-free version.

How to Make Chocolate Chipless Cookies

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to keep cleanup easy and your cookies picture-perfect.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial—creaming aerates the dough for that dreamy texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and pure vanilla extract, making sure everything is thoroughly combined for even flavor and a smooth batter.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures all your leaveners and spices are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Your Dough

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined (and no more!)—the dough will seem a little dry at first, but keep folding gently with a spatula. Trust the process; it comes together beautifully.

Step 6: Portion and Bake

Use a 1.5-tablespoon scoop or two spoons to drop dough onto your prepared sheet, leaving room for the cookies to spread. Bake for 11–12 minutes, until the edges are turning golden but the centers look ever-so-slightly underbaked.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes—this sets their shape—then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling. Dive in while they’re still a bit warm for ultimate satisfaction.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Over-Mix: Once the flour goes in, mix just until you see no streaks. Over-mixing will make your cookies tough.
Softened Butter is Key: Room-temperature butter (not melted) creams perfectly and makes a tender cookie.
Cookie Size Matters: If you like thicker cookies, make your dough balls a bit higher rather than wide.
Underbake Slightly: Pull the cookies out when the centers still look soft—they’ll finish setting as they cool, ensuring chewy middles.
Customize Sweetness: Feel free to use sugar substitutes if you prefer, but keep in mind each substitute acts a little differently.

How to Serve

Chocolate Chipless Cookies are deliciously versatile. Serve them just as they are alongside a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee. For a simple dessert, sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies. These also make a wonderful addition to a fruit platter—you’d be surprised how well their buttery flavor pairs with fresh berries or crisp apple slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days. They’ll stay soft and fresh-tasting—just don’t let them linger on the counter too long!

Freezing

These cookies freeze like a dream. Stack them between parchment layers in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Reheat a cookie in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if you want to revive that fresh-baked warmth and softness.

FAQs

Are these cookies supposed to be so “plain” without chocolate chips?

Absolutely—this recipe celebrates the classic cookie dough flavors. Without chocolate chips, the buttery, brown sugar, and subtle cinnamon notes truly shine.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Store the dough in the fridge, tightly wrapped, for up to 48 hours. Chilled dough actually bakes up thicker and even more flavorful.
Help! My cookies turned out too dense. What happened?

This usually means the dough was over-mixed or too much flour was added. Be gentle when folding the dry ingredients into the wet, and when measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it—never scoop!
Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, a cup-for-cup gluten-free blend will work. The texture may be slightly different, but the cookies will still be delicious. You may want to add an extra splash of vanilla or a pinch more cinnamon for extra personality.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried a cookie without chocolate chips, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. These Chocolate Chipless Cookies have a timeless, comforting flavor that’s satisfyingly simple and completely crave-worthy. Perfect for busy nights, bake sales, or when you want a sweet treat in a flash, this is a recipe to make often and share—if you’re in a generous mood! Gather up your ingredients and give these a try—you might just find your new favorite cookie.