July Cookies

July Cookies are festive, colorful treats designed to celebrate Independence Day or any summer gathering with red, white, and blue flair. These cookies often feature vibrant sprinkles, M&M’s, or swirls of patriotic-colored dough, making them a fun and eye-catching dessert perfect for the 4th of July. They’re chewy, soft, and bursting with vanilla flavor — a sweet way to show off your patriotic spirit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are festive, fun, and easy to make, requiring just a few pantry staples and your favorite red, white, and blue add-ins. They’re perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, and holiday parties. Kids and adults alike love their chewy texture and colorful appearance. Plus, the recipe is super versatile, allowing you to customize with different candies or decorations.

ingredients

(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 M&M’s or chocolate chips
• Patriotic sprinkles (optional)
• Red and blue food coloring (optional, if swirling dough colors)

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugars until creamy and smooth.
4. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
6. Fold in patriotic M&M’s or chocolate chips and sprinkles.
7. Optional: Divide dough into three parts — leave one plain, tint one red, and the other blue. Swirl them together gently for a tie-dye look.
8. Scoop cookie dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing evenly.
9. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still soft.
10. Cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Use white chocolate chips instead of M&M’s for a smoother flavor.
• Add chopped strawberries and blueberries for a fruitier take.
• Try using cookie cutters to create flag or star shapes after baking (if using a cutout dough version).
• Make ice cream sandwiches by filling with vanilla or berry ice cream.
• For a lighter version, substitute half the butter with applesauce.

storage/reheating

Store July Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container. For longer storage, freeze cookies for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if you prefer them warm and gooey.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be chilled for up to 48 hours. Let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before scooping and baking.

What type of food coloring should I use?

Gel food coloring works best because it provides vibrant color without thinning the dough.

Can I use different colors for other holidays?

Absolutely! Just swap the red, white, and blue for colors to match any occasion.

How do I prevent the M&M’s from cracking in the oven?

Press some M&M’s on top of the dough balls after scooping rather than mixing them all in.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of regular flour.

Are these cookies soft or crunchy?

They are soft and chewy in the center with lightly crisped edges.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts add a nice texture contrast.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Not necessarily, but chilling can help prevent spreading and intensify flavor.

Can I make smaller or larger cookies?

Yes, just adjust the baking time—smaller cookies need less, larger ones more.

Can I use this dough for cookie bars?

Yes, press the dough into a greased baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes.

Conclusion

July Cookies are the perfect patriotic treat for your summer celebrations. With their colorful mix-ins and customizable dough, they bring festive fun to any gathering. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a barbecue, or simply enjoying a sweet summer treat, these cookies deliver flavor and flair in every bite.

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