15 family-friendly cookies that won’t ruin your kids’ dinner (no promises though)

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Finding the right cookies that won’t spoil your kids’ dinner appetite can be a bit of a balancing act. It’s all about choosing treats that are tasty but not too rich, like a simple chocolate caramel or oatmeal raisin. You could even bake them together as a fun family activity, choosing recipes with nuts or whole grains for a healthier twist. And while there’s no guarantee, opting for any of these 15 family-friendly cookies should keep dinner plans safe—most of the time, anyway!

Chocolate Caramel Cookies.
Chocolate Caramel Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Two bowls of salted caramel snickerdoodle cookies on a plate with lavender flowers on the table.
Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you’re in the mood for something a bit more decadent without going overboard, these cookies hit the spot. Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles are a wonderful blend of gooey caramel with a hint of salt, all snuggled in a golden-brown cookie. Although they’re quite indulgent, their size keeps things reasonable, letting you indulge a bit before dinner. Enjoy the sumptuous flavors and still have room for your main course.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Zuccihini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

Zucchini Cookies on a parchment-lined tray.
Zuccihini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who knew adding veggies to cookies could taste so good and still be kind to your waistline? These Zucchini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans are wonderfully moist and chock-full of delicious chunks that provide a healthful twist to your snacking. Thanks to the zucchini, they’re not too sweet, so you can enjoy one (or maybe two) without spoiling your dinner. They’re your go-to for a treat that’s a little bit different but still tickles you.
Get the Recipe: Zuccihini Cookies with Chocolate & Pecans

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies on a slate.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

It’s hard to resist these timeless classics, especially when they strike a perfect balance between sweet and hearty. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are known for their chewy texture, full of wholesome oats and plump raisins that offer a satisfying bite. They’re just the thing when you need something to take the edge off hunger without ruining your appetite for dinner. These cookies are a smart choice for a snack that’s both filling and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies

Frosted chocolate chip cookie cookies on a wooden cutting board.
Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

What could be better than chocolate chip cookies? How about the same beloved treat dressed up with a touch of frosting for a bit of extra luxury? Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies give you that classic flavor you love, plus a creamy frosting to top it all off. If you’re in the mood for a small splurge that keeps dinner in mind, these cookies are just the trick.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies

Sweet Potato Cookies

Sweet Potato Cookies on a baking sheet with icing and nuts.
Sweet Potato Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a cookie that offers more than just sweetness, these baked treats truly deliver. Sweet Potato Cookies incorporate the subtle sweetness and nutrition of sweet potatoes, making snack time more health-conscious. They’re soft and easy on the palate, and you can feel good about enjoying one any time, especially when you want a little something before dinner. They’re the kind of snack that’s not just tasty but also feels right to eat.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cookies

White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A jar of White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies next to lavender flowers.
White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Soft, chewy, and beautifully cracked on the surface, these cookies are a masterpiece of flavor and texture. White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies offer a mild chocolate taste that’s wrapped in a dusting of powdered sugar for an exquisite treat. They’re light enough to keep your appetite intact yet so delicious you’ll feel spoilt. A great choice for a light snack to tide you over until your next big meal.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal raisin cookies on a plate next to a glass of milk.
Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Air frying is not just for savory treats; it can whip up some amazing cookies, too! Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies come out with a unique texture that sets them apart from the traditional oven-baked variety. They still hold on to that wholesomeness you expect from oatmeal raisins but with an exciting new crunch. These are great to have on standby when you fancy a snack that satisfies without stopping you from looking forward to a larger meal later.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Peaches & Cream Cookies

Peaches and cream cookies on a plate with fresh peaches nearby.
Peaches & Cream Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These tiny treats are a burst of summer in every bite, combining juicy peach flavors and a creamy texture. You can enjoy these Peaches & Cream Cookies as a quick pick-me-up that doesn’t ruin your dinner plans. They strike a nice balance, being light on the stomach while delivering that sweet kick you crave. Tuck in without hesitation, even when you know a big meal is just around the corner.
Get the Recipe: Peaches & Cream Cookies

Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies

Two Salted Dark Chocolate cookies on a plate next to flowers.
Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Baked with rich dark chocolate and just a touch of sea salt for a sublime savory twist, these cookies are ideal for anyone who loves a sweet and salty combination. Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies are deeply satisfying but won’t leave you feeling stuffed. These are perfect for a modest indulgence before you sit down for a proper meal. Plus, they offer that chocolate satisfaction you might be craving without feeling too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Salted Dark Chocolate Cookies

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies on a white plate with strawberries nearby.
Strawberry Shortcake Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Everyone loves the classic combo of strawberries and cream, and these cookies bring all that goodness into a few light bites. Strawberry Shortcake Cookies are a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling too full. The hint of cream combined with the juicy strawberries makes snack time feel like a special occasion. Keep these on hand for when you want something tasty that won’t fill you up before your main meal.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

Double Chocolate Brookies

A plate of chocolate cookies with walnuts and chocolate pieces on the side.
Double Chocolate Brookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

For a truly chocolatey experience that brings together the best of two worlds, these goodies shouldn’t be missed. Double Chocolate Brookies achieve that dreamy combination of crunchy cookie edges with a soft brownie-like middle. Though their rich taste satisfies all chocolate cravings, they’re just the right size so you can savor them before a meal. Delve into this chocolate treat and still be ready for what’s next on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Brookies

Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms

Shortbread M&M cookies on a black plate with flowers.
Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Let’s mix things up with a playful twist on classic shortbread by adding some colorful candy. Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms combine the buttery goodness of traditional shortbread with the chocolatey crunch of M&Ms. They are not too sweet and perfectly crumbly, but they’re a fun way to enjoy a pre-dinner snack. Go ahead and reach for one of these when you want to add a pop of color and joy to your snack time without overdoing it.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies with M&Ms

Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Chocolate Caramel Cookies.
Chocolate Caramel Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If the rich combination of chocolate and caramel is what you crave, here’s something that’s exactly what you’re looking for. The gooeyness of caramel melts perfectly with the richness of chocolate in these Chocolate Caramel Cookies, ensuring each bite is as mouthwatering as the last. They’re the right pick-me-up before dinner, giving you a taste of indulgence in just the right amount. Go on and treat yourself to a little luxury without any guilt.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies

A top-down shot of Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies on a white plate.
Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Sometimes, you need a break from chocolate and all things ultra-sweet, which is where these crisply baked goodies come in. Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies offer a beautifully tangy flavor paired with the satisfying crunch of poppy seeds for a totally different kind of treat. They’re the kind you can easily enjoy without feeling too full, perfect for staying light on your feet. Nibble on one of these, and you’ll add a sprinkle of sunshine to your afternoon without ruining dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Poppy Seed Cookeis

Chocolate Overload Cookies

Chocolate overload cookies on a white plate.
Chocolate Overload Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

When it’s all about the chocolate, and you need variety, look no further than this doughy treat. Chocolate Overload Cookies come packed with an assortment of chocolatey goodness to satisfy even the most insatiable sweet tooth. They’re designed to be enjoyed as a treat, not as a meal replacement, so you can indulge in moderation before the dinner bell rings. Have one of these, and you’ll understand why there’s never too much chocolate.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Overload Cookies

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