When it comes to baking treats for kids, few things are more delightful than a plate of soft-baked animal cookies. These sweet and playful snacks are perfect for packing in lunchboxes or serving as a fun after-school snack. But why settle for just one flavor when you can have 18 delicious options? In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite recipes for animal cookies that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic vanilla and chocolate dipped treats to more unique flavors like lemon glazed and matcha green tea, there’s something on this list for every young baker. And with a variety of dietary restrictions in mind, we’ve included gluten-free, vegan, and other options that are just as tasty as they are inclusive.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get baking and make some adorable animal cookies to delight your little ones!
Classic Vanilla Animal Cookies
A classic favorite, these soft-baked animal cookies are a staple in many households. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a batch of these adorable treats that are perfect for snacking or sharing.
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
– 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts for decorating (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, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Use animal-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Animal Cookies
Transform your favorite childhood snack into a decadent treat by dipping animal-shaped cookies in rich, melted chocolate. This easy recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of animal-shaped cookies (about 12-15 cookies)
– 1 cup of white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup of milk chocolate chips
– Optional: sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to toast the cookies.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Dip each animal cookie into the melted white chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the cookie.
4. Place the dipped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a wire rack.
5. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Drizzle the melted milk chocolate over the white-chocolate-coated cookies.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
8. Serve and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required (just dipping and cooling)
Lemon Glazed Animal Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy cookies, perfect for a afternoon pick-me-up or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 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
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped animal cookies (such as Nutter Butter)
– Lemon glaze ingredients: 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
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 sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in chopped animal cookies.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. To make the lemon glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Strawberry Frosted Animal Cookies
These adorable cookies are perfect for kids’ parties or a fun family baking session. With a strawberry twist on the classic frosted animal cookie, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup strawberry jam
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– Animal cookie shapes (about 24-30)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour, baking soda, and salt; mix until combined.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use animal cookie shapes to cut out cookies.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely.
6. In a small bowl, mix strawberry jam and powdered sugar. Dip cooled cookies into the mixture to coat.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on size)
Matcha Green Tea Animal Cookies
Take a sweet break with these adorable Matcha Green Tea Animal Cookies, infused with the subtle taste of Japanese green tea. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup matcha powder
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 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, whisk together flour and matcha powder.
3. In another 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 a dough forms. If using walnuts, fold them into the dough.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired animal shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Peanut Butter Animal Cookies
Bring a smile to someone’s face with these adorable and delicious peanut butter cookies shaped like animals! This recipe is perfect for a fun family baking activity or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Animal-shaped cookie cutters (various sizes)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream peanut butter, butter, and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create animal shapes.
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gluten-Free Animal Cookies
These chewy cookies are a fun twist on the classic animal crackers, with the added benefit of being gluten-free. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they’re easy to make and perfect for snacking or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration (optional)
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, coconut sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vegan Animal Cookies
Create a delicious and fun treat for kids (and adults!) with these vegan animal cookies. Made with wholesome ingredients, they’re perfect for a snack or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg replacement (e.g. flaxseed or chia seed mixture)
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dairy-free)
– Animal-shaped cookie cutters
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and maple syrup.
3. Add coconut oil, vanilla extract, and egg replacement. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into animal shapes using cookie cutters.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Velvet Animal Cookies
These adorable cookies are perfect for a fun snack or party treat. With their vibrant red color and soft, chewy texture, they’re sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons red velvet emulsion (or 1 teaspoon red food coloring)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
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 salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Add emulsion or food coloring, vanilla extract, and egg. Beat until well combined.
5. Gradually add flour mixture; mix until just combined.
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 edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Animal Cookies
Warm up with a batch of these adorable Spiced Pumpkin Animal Cookies, perfect for snacking or sharing at your next fall gathering!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure pumpkin puree
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Divide dough into 2-3 portions, depending on desired cookie size. Roll out each portion to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Use animal-shaped cookie cutters or a glass to create shapes. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Butter Animal Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with the nutty goodness of almond butter and feature adorable animal shapes. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re easy to make and fun to customize.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Animal-shaped cookie cutters (various sizes)
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, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter, almond butter, and sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into animal shapes using cookie cutters.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Animal Cookies
Transform your kitchen into a whimsical wonderland with these adorable Cinnamon Sugar Animal Cookies! Soft, chewy cookies shaped like animals are drenched in cinnamon sugar goodness.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
• Animal-shaped cookie cutters (e.g., bears, cats, dogs)
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 sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Divide dough into 4 portions. Roll out each portion to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Use animal-shaped cookie cutters to create desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. While still warm, coat cookies in cinnamon sugar mixture (mix equal parts granulated sugar and ground cinnamon).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Raspberry Jam Filled Animal Cookies
Brighten up your snack time with these adorable cookies filled with a sweet and tangy raspberry jam surprise. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these treats are easy to make and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Raspberry jam (store-bought or homemade)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
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, and brown sugar. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., animals, hearts).
5. Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam onto one half of each cookie shape. Top with another cookie shape to create a sandwich.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Coated Animal Cookies
Coconut Coated Animal Cookies Recipe
Give your taste buds a tropical twist with these crispy-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside animal cookies coated in toasted coconut flakes. Perfect for a sweet treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Toasted coconut flakes for coating (about 1 cup)
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, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and immediately coat in toasted coconut flakes while still warm.
Yield: About 20-25 cookies
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Double Chocolate Animal Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy Double Chocolate Animal Cookies, perfect for snack time or a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Red and black gel or icing for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and brown sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
8. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Orange Zest Animal Cookies
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your cookie game with these delicious Orange Zest Animal Cookies! With the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, these chewy treats are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (about 1/2 orange)
– 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, oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in orange zest.
6. Scoop 1-inch balls onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Caramel Drizzled Animal Cookies
Elevate your snack game with Caramel Drizzled Animal Cookies – a sweet and salty combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, whichever you prefer)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups animal crackers
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together peanut butter, honey, and corn syrup until smooth.
3. Stir in melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Arrange animal crackers on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle the peanut butter mixture evenly over the crackers.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until caramel is bubbly and slightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Funfetti Animal Cookies
These adorable cookies are a perfect blend of fun and flavor, featuring colorful sprinkles and a sweet, buttery aroma. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these delightful treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined.
4. Stir in funfetti sprinkles.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your kids with these adorable and delicious animal cookies! With 18 mouth-watering recipes to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice. From classic vanilla and chocolate dipped treats to lemon glazed, strawberry frosted, and matcha green tea creations, there’s something for every kid (and let’s be honest, adult too!) on this list. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free, vegan, or just plain fun, these animal cookies are sure to bring a smile to your little one’s face.
