Ever wondered about the most popular cookie recipes through the years? Take a look at how our tastes have changed!
The Most Popular Cookie from Every Decade
Updated Jun. 11, 2024
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1900s: Fig Newtons
Believe it or not, these cookies have been around in America since the late 19th century. They’re named after the town of Newton, Massachusetts, and were created to fulfill the daily intake of biscuits and fruit recommended by doctors of that time. Love retro recipes? Don’t forget to try our favorite cottage cheese biscuits.
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1910s: Oatmeal Cookies
Oats didn’t really make their way into sweet treats until the 1910s, but thank goodness they finally did! Where would we be without oatmeal cookies—with or without raisins?
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Molasses Cookies
Learn how to make molasses cookies with our top-rated recipe and step-by-step tips from an expert baker.
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Aunt Ione's Icebox Cookies
Whenever we went to visit my Aunt Ione in south Georgia, her icebox cookies were our favorite treat. My mother later make these cookies, and I remember begging for a slice of the raw dough—I thought the unbaked cookies tasted just as great as the baked! —Jenny Hill, Meridianville, Alabama
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Chocolate Chip Cookies
This is truly the ultimate chocolate chip cookie recipe. We'll show you how to make these cookies your own, whether you like them cakey, crispy or chewy.
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Cowboy Cookies
Cowboy cookies are packed with hearty mix-ins: chocolate chips, oats, pecans and shredded coconut. Our cowboy cookie recipe also includes a unique step—toasting the coconut and pecans—to add a layer of complexity.
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Cardamom Spritz
As far back as I remember, I have loved cardamom. My grandmother often added the spice to her baked goods. I usually make these cookies with a spritz press—and camel disk—that I found at a thrift shop. It reminds me of a time when I rode a camel in the desert while deployed with the Navy. Of course, any design will do! —Crystal Schlueter, Northglenn, ColoradoSpritz cookies have stood the test of time, as they are still one of the most popular Christmas cookies in Iowa.
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Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies
Everyone who tries these beloved gems is amazed that they use only five ingredients. Baking cookies doesn't get much easier than this. —Dee Davis, Sun City, Arizona
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1980s: Snickerdoodles
Just as Spandex and leg warmers were present in many closets in the ’80s, these cookies were a staple in many kitchens.
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Confetti Cake Batter Cookies
Mom and I took up cake decorating. Funfetti was our favorite cake, so we used the mix to make cutout cookies. Plain or decorated, they’re a fave at parties. —Danielle DeMarco, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
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Mint Chocolate-Covered Cookies
At our house, everyone lends a hand to make these easy chocolate-covered cookies. They remind me of Thin Mints. Decorate them with sprinkles to match the occasion. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
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Cinnamon Roll Macarons
These macarons are a fall and winter staple for me. Inspired by the classic cinnamon roll, they are a delicious treat for a cold or snowy day. These pair well with a mug of tea, and can be eaten as a dessert or just a snack. Other fillings would work well with this—including custard, mousse, ganache or other buttercream. —Elizabeth Ding, El Cerrito, CaliforniaOriginally Published: August 20, 2019
