7 Best-Selling Cookie Baking Books Millions Love

Discover Cookie Baking Books recommended by Molly Yeh, Ina Garten, and Lacey Chabert—trusted experts sharing best-selling favorites

Updated on June 27, 2025
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When millions of home bakers and seasoned experts agree, you know a book is worth your time—and with cookie baking, these seven best-selling titles have stood the test of both popularity and professional acclaim. Cookie baking remains a beloved way to connect, celebrate, and unwind, and these books offer approaches that have helped countless people bake with confidence and joy.

Molly Yeh, known for her approachable style on Food Network’s Girl Meets Farm, champions Sarah Kieffer’s 100 Cookies as a treasure trove of reliable, crave-worthy recipes. Meanwhile, Ina Garten appreciates the joyful clarity Sarah brings, especially praising her famous chocolate chip recipe. For those drawn to creative flair, Lacey Chabert, Lance Bass, and Debbie Matenopoulos all rave about Creative Cookie Decorating, highlighting its stunning designs and delicious results.

While these popular books provide proven frameworks, if you want a collection tailored exactly to your baking style, skill level, and goals, consider creating a personalized Cookie Baking book. This custom option blends expert wisdom with your unique tastes for a truly personal baking journey.

Best for reliable, diverse recipes
Molly Yeh, host of Food Network’s Girl Meets Farm and author of Molly on the Range, praises this book as a "cookie gold mine," highlighting how Sarah Kieffer’s years of baking wisdom have finally become accessible to home cooks everywhere. Molly's enthusiasm reflects the book’s widespread appeal, capturing the balance of reliability and crave-worthy recipes that transformed her kitchen. This recommendation pairs well with Ina Garten, who admires Sarah’s joyful approach and clear guidance, especially recommending the famous chocolate chip cookies as a starting point. Together, their insights offer a compelling reason to explore this collection whether you’re baking for family or celebration.

Recommended by Molly Yeh

Host of Food Network’s Girl Meets Farm

This is a cookie gold mine. I've been waiting years for all of Sarah's cookie wisdom to transfer from her brain to my kitchen, and here it is! Sarah's recipes are reliable, approachable, and just plain crave-able. This world has reached peak cookie deliciousness thanks to Sarah. (from Amazon)

2020·304 pages·Desserts Baking, Cookie Baking, Cookbooks, Baking Techniques, Brownies

When Sarah Kieffer noticed how many bakers struggled to find reliable cookie recipes that delivered consistent results, she drew from her years of baking experience and viral pan-banging technique to craft this collection. You learn to bake everything from classic chocolate chip cookies made three ways to inventive treats like red wine cherry cheesecake swirl bars, with clear guidance on texture and flavor balance. The book breaks down baking techniques in approachable chapters, making it accessible whether you’re new to cookie baking or looking to expand your repertoire. Its diverse recipe range benefits home bakers eager to impress with both timeless favorites and novel desserts.

Nominated for 2020 Goodreads Choice Award
Featured in New York Times and Food & Wine
Over 150,000 copies sold
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Best for artistic cookie decorators
Lacey Chabert, an American actress known for her thoughtful approach to lifestyle and entertaining, praises this book after discovering it during a period of exploring creative baking projects. She called it "Tastes phenomenal, incredible . . . so beautiful." Her appreciation reflects how this book not only delivers on flavor but also on stunning visual appeal, resonating with many who want to impress with their cookie decorating. Alongside Lance Bass, who describes it as "a gorgeous book," their endorsements highlight why this collection has become a favorite for those passionate about cookie artistry and seasonal designs.

Recommended by Lacey Chabert

American actress

Tastes phenomenal, incredible . . . so beautiful. (from Amazon)

2019·272 pages·Cookie Baking, Baking, Desserts, Buttercream Frosting, Sugar Cookies

Emily Hutchinson’s years mastering buttercream-frosted sugar cookies culminate in this collection that teaches you both technique and creative flair. You’ll explore detailed recipes ranging from classic to gluten-free and dairy-free options, alongside hundreds of step-by-step photos demonstrating how to roll, cut, and decorate over 100 cookie designs. Beyond recipes, Emily shares her personal journey of turning grief into artistry, adding a heartfelt layer to the instructions. This book suits anyone eager to elevate cookie decorating beyond basic icing, especially those who appreciate seasonal themes and want to impress with both looks and flavor.

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Best for personal baking plans
This AI-created book on cookie baking mastery is crafted based on your baking background, skill level, and specific challenges. By sharing what you want to focus on and achieve, you receive a book tailored exactly to your needs. This personalized approach helps you zero in on techniques and insights that matter most to you, making your cookie baking journey more effective and enjoyable.
2025·50-300 pages·Cookie Baking, Ingredient Selection, Dough Preparation, Baking Techniques, Temperature Control

This tailored book on cookie baking mastery explores battle-tested methods to perfect your cookie baking every time. It combines proven techniques with your unique baking challenges, matching your background and preferences to focus on your interests. Through a personalized approach, it covers essential aspects like ingredient selection, dough handling, baking times, and temperature control, empowering you to achieve consistent, delicious results. The book reveals how to troubleshoot common issues and refine your skills based on your specific goals, making the learning experience efficient and rewarding. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to elevate your baking, this book provides targeted knowledge tailored to your journey.

Tailored Guide
Baking Precision
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for mastering cookie science
America’s Test Kitchen is a leading multimedia cooking resource with TV shows, magazines, cookbooks, and a cooking school. Over 60 chefs rigorously test recipes and techniques, which is why this book reflects a depth of expertise rarely matched. Their extensive testing process led them to compile the definitive guide for cookie baking, covering everything from the science of textures to choosing the right tools. This background makes the book a trustworthy resource for anyone serious about baking perfect cookies every time.
2017·448 pages·Cookie Baking, Desserts Baking, Cookbooks, Brownies, Bars

What happens when decades of rigorous recipe testing meet cookie baking? America's Test Kitchen distills its expertise into this detailed guide, offering recipes that range from chewy classics to fudgy brownies and no-bake treats. You’ll explore the science behind texture, like what creates a crispy edge versus a soft center, and get insider advice on equipment, such as the best baking sheets for even heat distribution. The book’s structure, with full-page photos accompanying every recipe, makes it easy to find inspiration whether you’re baking for a holiday or a casual afternoon. If you want reliable results and a deep understanding of cookie science, this book is a solid companion, though those seeking quick fixes might find its thoroughness a bit much.

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Best for home bakers seeking variety
Sally McKenney is a baker, food photographer, blogger, and the best-selling author of Sally’s Baking Addiction and Sally’s Cookie Addiction. Her kitchen-tested recipes and tutorials give you the knowledge and confidence to bake from scratch, making this book a trusted companion for anyone looking to expand their cookie baking repertoire.
2017·200 pages·Cookie Baking, Desserts Baking, Biscuit Baking, Holiday Cookies, Shortbread

After years of sharing recipes and refining techniques on her popular food blog, Sally McKenney offers a collection that elevates cookie baking beyond the basics. This book teaches you how to master a wide range of cookies, from Brown Butter Toffee Chocolate Chip to Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, with clear guidance on preparing doughs ahead of time for convenience. You’ll find specialized chapters on holiday treats, shortbreads, and fun sprinkle-topped creations, making it easy to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re planning festive gatherings or simply want reliable recipes for everyday baking, this book equips you with skills to bake confidently and creatively.

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Best for elegant, textured cookies
Martha Stewart Living Magazine offers a rich treasury of cookie recipes that appeal to a wide range of tastes and occasions. With 175 recipes organized by texture—from crisp biscotti to soft and chewy delights—you'll find guidance suited to your baking mood or event. The book's full-color photographs and thoughtful packaging ideas elevate your baking from simple treats to memorable gifts. Whether you want to master classic favorites or experiment with unique flavors, this collection provides a reliable and inspiring companion for your kitchen.
2008·352 pages·Cookie Baking, Baking, Desserts, Recipe Development, Texture Variation

Millions of home bakers have turned to Martha Stewart Living Magazine for its rich collection of cookie recipes that go beyond the usual chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin. This book offers 175 recipes organized by texture—from light and delicate tuiles to cakey madeleines—giving you nuanced insight into how different ingredients and techniques shape the final cookie. You'll learn how to bake treats suited for any occasion, whether a casual picnic or an elegant dinner, and discover creative flavors like Peppermint Meringue Sandwiches and Lime Meltaways. The detailed photos and packaging ideas add another layer of inspiration, making it ideal for both everyday bakers and those looking to impress with presentation.

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Best for custom baking plans
This personalized AI book on cookie baking is created based on your baking background, skill level, and the specific areas you want to focus on. By sharing your goals and interests, you receive a cookie baking guide that matches your pace and preferred techniques. Customization here is key because cookie baking success depends a lot on your tastes, timing, and experience. This tailored approach helps you avoid generic advice and jump straight into what matters for your kitchen.
2025·50-300 pages·Cookie Baking, Baking Techniques, Ingredient Selection, Flavor Pairing, Recipe Customization

This personalized cookie baking book offers an engaging journey into the art and science of crafting delicious cookies tailored to your unique preferences and skill level. It explores quick, actionable baking plans designed to fit your background and specific goals, ensuring a focused learning experience. The book covers essential techniques, ingredient selection, flavor combinations, and baking timings, all matched to your interests for an efficient and enjoyable mastery of cookie baking. With a tailored approach, it reveals how to balance creativity and consistency in your kitchen, guiding you through a customized 30-day progression that adapts proven insights to your personal tastes.

Tailored Handbook
Baking Optimization
3,000+ Books Created
Best for advanced cookie enthusiasts
Dorie Greenspan’s "Dorie's Cookies" offers a treasure trove for anyone serious about cookie baking. This highly regarded collection features recipes that have earned her the coveted "three purple stars," meaning each cookie is worth making repeatedly. From elegant Portofignos to beloved World Peace Cookies, the book caters to a wide range of tastes and occasions. Its detailed, approachable recipes and Greenspan’s expertise make it a standout resource for passionate bakers looking to expand their repertoire and impress family and friends with truly special cookies.
Dorie's Cookies book cover

by Dorie Greenspan·You?

2016·528 pages·Cookie Baking, Baking, Desserts, Recipe Development, Holiday Cookies

What makes this cookie collection stand out is how Dorie Greenspan turns familiar treats into memorable experiences, inviting you to bake cookies that truly deserve repeating. Over her career, Greenspan perfected more than 300 recipes but saved the best for this volume, where each cookie earns a "three purple stars" rating, signaling its special appeal. You’ll explore everything from the sophisticated Portofignos—chocolate dough with port-soaked figs—to the simple Almond Crackle Cookies with only three ingredients. Whether you want festive Christmas swaps like Little Rascals or a cookie with a cult following like the World Peace Cookie, this book offers both inventive and approachable options. It’s ideal if you want to deepen your baking skills and impress with distinctive cookies that go beyond the usual.

James Beard Award Winner for Best Baking and Dessert Book 2017
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Best for practical cookie decorating
Valerie Peterson and Janice Fryer bring a fresh approach to cookie baking with their book that makes beautifully decorated cookies accessible to home bakers. Their practical methods cover every step from rolling dough to adding intricate designs with luster dust and piping techniques. With guidance on creating icing color palettes and even tips on freezing and shipping your creations, the book stands out as a comprehensive tool for anyone wanting to add creativity and flair to cookie baking. Whether preparing for a celebration or sharing treats with loved ones, this book provides the know-how to transform simple cookies into memorable, artistic confections.
2007·158 pages·Cookie Baking, Baking Techniques, Icing Techniques, Food Coloring, Cookie Decoration

Valerie Peterson and Janice Fryer's extensive experience in cookie crafting shines through their approachable guide that takes you beyond basic baking into the art of decorated cookies. You’ll learn practical techniques like rolling, cutting, flooding, and piping, along with creative tips on icing color palettes and crafting stand-up cookies, making your treats suitable for any occasion. The book also covers useful advice on freezing and shipping, which helps if you want to share your creations far and wide. If you enjoy hands-on projects and want to elevate your cookie baking skills with design and presentation, this book offers clear, achievable methods without overwhelming you.

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Popular Cookie Baking Strategies, Personalized

Get proven, best-selling cookie baking methods tailored to your unique style and goals.

Reliable recipes daily
Creative decorating tips
Personalized baking plan

Endorsed by top experts and thousands of home bakers

Cookie Baking Mastery
30-Day Cookie Fix
Foundations of Cookies
Cookie Success Blueprint

Conclusion

Across these seven titles, clear themes emerge: dependable, well-tested recipes; creative decorating techniques; and insights into the science that makes perfect cookies possible. If you prefer established, proven methods, start with The Perfect Cookie or 100 Cookies for their rigorous testing and diverse recipes. For those seeking to wow with presentation, Creative Cookie Decorating and Cookie Craft provide inspiring artistry and practical tips.

For a deeper dive into flavors and textures, Dorie's Cookies and Martha Stewart's Cookies offer sophisticated recipes that invite exploration. Sally’s Cookie Addiction bridges everyday baking with unique flavors and convenience.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Cookie Baking book to combine proven methods with your unique needs. These widely-adopted approaches have helped many readers succeed in crafting their perfect batch of cookies.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with The Perfect Cookie if you want a detailed, science-backed guide, or 100 Cookies for a broad range of reliable, approachable recipes. Both offer proven methods that suit beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Cookie Baking?

Not at all. Many of these books, like 100 Cookies and Sally's Cookie Addiction, break down techniques clearly, making them accessible whether you're just learning or refining skills.

Should I start with the newest book or a classic?

Newer books like 100 Cookies reflect recent trends and techniques, while classics like Martha Stewart's Cookies offer timeless recipes. Combining both perspectives enriches your baking repertoire.

Do I really need to read all of these, or can I just pick one?

You can definitely pick one that fits your goals. If you want decorating skills, Creative Cookie Decorating is ideal; for basic recipes, The Perfect Cookie is a solid choice. Each book serves different needs.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

100 Cookies excels in practical, approachable recipes and techniques you can start using immediately, backed by expert praise for reliability and flavor.

How can I get cookie baking advice tailored to my specific tastes and skill level?

While these expert books offer great foundations, personalized Cookie Baking books blend proven recipes with your unique preferences and goals. You can create your custom Cookie Baking book here to get exactly what you need.

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