4th of July Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

4th of July Cookies are colorful, chewy, and bursting with patriotic flair—perfect for your Independence Day celebration. These red, white, and blue cookies are easy to make, fun to decorate, and great for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re baking sugar cookies to decorate or mixing up sprinkle-filled cookie dough, they’re a festive favorite that brings holiday cheer to your dessert table.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
baking soda
salt
unsalted butter (softened)
granulated sugar
brown sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
red, white, and blue sprinkles or M&M’s
optional: red and blue gel food coloring

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs and vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until fully incorporated.

Fold in red, white, and blue sprinkles or M&M’s. If desired, divide dough and tint portions red and blue with gel food coloring, leaving the rest plain.

Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.

Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still soft.

Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 9–11 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use a sugar cookie base and cut out star shapes to decorate with icing.
Add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness and contrast.
Roll dough balls in colored sugar before baking for a glittery finish.
Create a swirl effect by rolling red, white, and blue doughs together.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheat in the microwave for 5–10 seconds for a warm, soft texture.

FAQs

Can I use a cookie mix?

Yes, just add patriotic sprinkles or candies to the dough before baking.

Do I need food coloring?

No, but it enhances the red, white, and blue theme.

Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes, refrigerate for up to 48 hours or freeze dough balls for later baking.

Are these cookies soft or crispy?

They’re soft and chewy with slightly crisp edges.

Can I make gluten-free cookies?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

What’s the best way to get even-sized cookies?

Use a cookie scoop for consistent portioning.

Can I decorate after baking?

Yes, drizzle with white chocolate or add icing designs once cooled.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Not necessary, but chilling can enhance the flavor and reduce spreading.

What kind of sprinkles work best?

Jimmies and M&M’s hold up well during baking without bleeding color.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, it scales well for larger gatherings.

Conclusion

4th of July Cookies are a festive, flavorful way to celebrate America’s birthday with style and sweetness. Easy to bake and endlessly customizable, these red, white, and blue cookies are sure to delight guests of all ages. Bake a batch and enjoy the perfect combination of holiday fun and homemade goodness.

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