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 on Jun. 11, 2024
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.
1/12
2/12
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Total Time
30 min
Servings
about 3-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
A friend gave me the recipe for these cookies many years ago, and they’re as delicious as the ones Mom used to make. The secret to the recipe is to measure exactly (no guessing on the amounts) and to not overbake. —Wendy Coalwell, Abbeville, Georgia
3/12
Molasses Cookies
Total Time
45 min
Servings
2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
My family always requests these soft molasses cookies. These chewy cookies are also perfect for shipping as holiday gifts or to troops overseas. —Kristine Chayes, Smithtown, New York
4/12
Icebox Cookies
Total Time
30 min
Servings
7 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
This cookie recipe from my 91-year-old grandmother was my grandfather's favorite. She still makes them and sends us home with the dough so that we can make more whenever we want, I love to make a fresh batch when company drops in. —Chris Paulsen, Glendale, Arizona
5/12
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Total Time
25 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Everyone has a favorite type of chocolate chip cookie—a little crispy, a little chewy—but they all have to begin with a basic chocolate chip cookie recipe. This is the best place to start! —Megumi Garcia, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
6/12
Cowboy Cookies
Total Time
40 min
Servings
6 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
These cookies are very popular here in Wyoming. Mix up a batch for your crew and see why. —Patsy Steenbock, Shoshoni, Wyoming
7/12
Cardamom Spritz
Total Time
30 min
Servings
about 6 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
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, Colorado
Spritz cookies have stood the test of time, as they are still one of the most popular Christmas cookies in Iowa.
8/12
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
Total Time
25 min
Servings
3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's proof that peanut butter and chocolate just belong together. These peanut butter blossom cookies are an easy family favorite and never fails to make my children smile. —Tammie Merrill, Wake Forest, North Carolina
9/12
1980s: Snickerdoodles
Total Time
30 min
Servings
2-1/2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
Just as Spandex and leg warmers were present in many closets in the ’80s, these cookies were a staple in many kitchens.
10/12
Confetti Cake Batter Cookies
Total Time
25 min
Servings
about 2 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
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
11/12
Mint Chocolate-Covered Cookies
Total Time
15 min
Servings
about 3 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
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
12/12
Cinnamon Roll Macarons
Total Time
55 min
Servings
5 dozen
From the Recipe Creator:
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 you can enjoy them as a dessert or just a snack. Other fillings would work well with this too—including custard, mousse, ganache or another buttercream.
—Elizabeth Ding, El Cerrito, California
