12 Summer Cookies for Kids: Fun, Easy, and Delicious Treats

Summer is the perfect time to create lasting memories with your kids, and what better way to do it than by baking cookies together? Whether you’re looking for cool no-bake options or colorful cookies packed with summer flavors, this list of 12 summer cookies for kids has something for everyone. These treats are simple to make, fun to decorate, and perfect for backyard parties, picnics, or just an afternoon snack.

1. Lemon Sugar Cookies

🍋 Lemon Sugar Cookies

Light, zesty, and perfect for summer, these Lemon Sugar Cookies are a refreshing twist on a classic treat. With a soft, buttery base and a pop of lemon in every bite, kids and adults alike will love them. They’re easy to make and perfect for decorating with sprinkles or a lemon glaze.

📝 Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  
• 1 tsp baking soda
  
• ½ tsp baking powder
  
• ½ tsp salt
  
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
  
• 1 large egg
  
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  
• 1 tbsp lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  
• Extra sugar for rolling (optional)
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
   
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
   
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
   
4. Add the egg, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
   
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until dough forms.
   
6. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and, if desired, roll in extra granulated sugar for a sparkling finish.
   
7. Place on baking sheet 2 inches apart and slightly flatten with the bottom of a glass.
   
8. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are just lightly golden. The centers will still look soft.
   
9. Let cool on the pan for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
   

🌞 Summer Tips:

• Add yellow sanding sugar or edible flowers for a fun, sunny look.
  
• For a glaze, mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tbsp lemon juice and drizzle over cooled cookies.
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• Bright lemony flavor that’s sweet but not too strong
  
• Soft texture with a light crunch from the sugar coating
  
• Easy to shape, roll, and decorate
  

2. No-Bake Chocolate Oat Cookies

🍫 No-Bake Chocolate Oat Cookies

Quick, easy, and no oven required! These No-Bake Chocolate Oat Cookies are a classic summer favorite—especially when you want to whip up a sweet treat without heating up the kitchen. With a rich chocolate-peanut butter flavor and chewy oat texture, they’re great for kids to help make and enjoy.

📝 Ingredients:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  
• 2 cups granulated sugar
  
• ½ cup milk
  
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  
• 3 cups quick-cooking oats
  
• A pinch of salt
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, sugar, milk, and cocoa powder.
   
2. Bring to a boil and let it boil for 1 minute—no more, no less! (This is important for the texture.)
   
3. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
   
4. Add oats and mix well until fully coated.
   
5. Drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper or parchment-lined baking sheets.
   
6. Let cool and set for about 20–30 minutes until firm.
   
7. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
   

🌞 Summer Tips:

• Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes if your kitchen is warm to help them set faster.
  
• Add shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or mini marshmallows for fun variations.
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• No baking needed—just mix, scoop, and eat!
  
• Rich chocolatey taste with chewy texture
  
• Perfect for little hands to help shape and drop
  

3. Watermelon Slice Cookies

🍉 Watermelon Slice Cookies

These Watermelon Slice Cookies are not just delicious—they’re an adorable, creative treat that kids love to make and eat. Shaped and decorated to look like juicy watermelon slices, these cookies are perfect for summer parties, playdates, or simply a fun baking activity at home.

📝 Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  
• 1 tsp baking soda
  
• ½ tsp baking powder
  
• ½ tsp salt
  
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  
• 1 large egg
  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  
• Red and green food coloring
  
• Mini chocolate chips (for “seeds”)
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
   
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
   
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla, and mix until smooth.
   
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
   
5. Divide dough into 2 parts:
   
   • Color 2/3 of the dough red (for the watermelon flesh).
     
   • Color 1/3 green (for the rind).
     
6. Roll red dough into a log or semicircle, then wrap green dough around the edge to form the “rind.” Chill for 30 minutes to firm up.
   
7. Slice dough into ½-inch thick rounds or wedges and place on the baking sheet.
   
8. Gently press mini chocolate chips onto the red portion to mimic watermelon seeds.
   
9. Bake for 8–10 minutes until set. Let cool on wire racks.
   

🌞 Summer Tips:

• Chill the dough thoroughly to keep the shapes sharp while slicing.
  
• Want extra flair? Brush the green edge with sanding sugar before baking for sparkle!
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• Bright, fun, and colorful like real watermelon
  
• Creative decorating opportunity
  
• Sweet sugar cookie base with chocolatey “seeds”
  

4. Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

🍓 Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

If you love the sweet, fruity flavor of classic strawberry shortcake, you’ll adore these Strawberry Shortcake Cookies. They’re soft, buttery, and packed with fresh strawberry chunks—making them the ultimate summer cookie treat for kids and adults alike.

📝 Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
  
• ½ tsp baking powder
  
• ¼ tsp baking soda
  
• ¼ tsp salt
  
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
  
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  
• 1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
  
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional, but delicious)
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
   
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   
3. Cut cold butter into the dry mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until it forms coarse crumbs.
   
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract. Add to the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
   
5. Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and white chocolate chips (if using). Be careful not to overmix.
   
6. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
   
7. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and centers are set.
   
8. Let cool for 5 minutes on the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
   

🌞 Summer Tips:

• Use firm, ripe strawberries to prevent sogginess.
  
• For a more biscuit-like texture, don’t overwork the dough.
  
• Add a drizzle of cream cheese glaze for an extra sweet twist.
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• Soft, fruity, and almost like cake in cookie form
  
• Bursting with real strawberry flavor
  
• Fun to make and even more fun to eat with a glass of cold milk!
  

5. Ice Cream Sandwich Cookies

🍦 Ice Cream Sandwich Cookies

Is there anything better than cookies and ice cream on a hot summer day? These Ice Cream Sandwich Cookies are a cool, creamy treat that kids absolutely love. With endless flavor combinations and decorating options, they’re the ultimate customizable summer dessert!

📝 Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  
• 1 cup brown sugar
  
• ½ cup granulated sugar
  
• 2 large eggs
  
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
  
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  
• 1 tsp baking soda
  
• ½ tsp salt
  
• 1 ½ cups chocolate chips (or mix-ins of choice)
  

For the Filling:

• 1–2 pints of your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, etc.)
  
• Sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or crushed cookies (for rolling the sides)
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
2. In a large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
   
3. Add eggs and vanilla; beat until combined.
   
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients and mix just until combined.
   
5. Fold in chocolate chips or your favorite mix-ins (like rainbow sprinkles, white chocolate, or chopped M&Ms).
   
6. Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto the baking sheet. Flatten slightly for even sandwiching.
   
7. Bake 10–12 minutes, or until edges are golden. Let cool completely.
   
8. Assemble sandwiches: Scoop a generous amount of ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie, then top with another.
   
9. Roll the edges in sprinkles, mini chips, or crushed cookies for a fun finish.
   
10. Freeze for 1–2 hours to firm up before serving.
    

🌞 Summer Tips:

• Soften ice cream slightly before scooping for easier assembly.
  
• Make a batch ahead of time and store in the freezer for quick summer treats.
  
• Use different cookies (like red velvet or sugar) to mix up the flavors.
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• Cold, creamy ice cream + chewy cookies = ultimate summer happiness
  
• Endless flavor combinations and fun to decorate
  
• A hands-on treat that doubles as a cool-down snack

6. Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies

🌈 Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies

Fun, festive, and bursting with color, these Rainbow Sprinkle Cookies are a celebration in every bite. With a soft vanilla sugar cookie base and loads of colorful sprinkles, they’re a favorite among kids for summer parties, birthdays, or just because!

📝 Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  
• 1 tsp baking powder
  
• ½ tsp baking soda
  
• ½ tsp salt
  
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  
• 1 cup granulated sugar
  
• 1 large egg
  
• 1 tbsp milk
  
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
  
• ½ tsp almond extract (optional for extra flavor)
  
• 1 cup rainbow sprinkles (plus more for rolling)
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
   
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
   
4. Add the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until well combined.
   
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
   
6. Gently fold in ¾ cup rainbow sprinkles.
   
7. Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized balls and roll each in the remaining sprinkles for a bright finish.
   
8. Place on the baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
   
9. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until edges are just golden. Centers should still be soft.
   
10. Cool on the pan for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
    

🌞 Summer Tips:

• Use gel food coloring to tint the dough for even more color fun (like pink, blue, or yellow).
  
• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days—perfect for summer snacking.
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• Super colorful and bright—just like summer!
  
• Soft and chewy with a hint of vanilla sweetness
  
• Sprinkles make everything more fun (and messier in the best way!)
  

7. Coconut Macaroons

🥥 Coconut Macaroons

Light, chewy, and naturally sweet, these Coconut Macaroons are a tropical summer treat that’s super simple to make. With just a few ingredients and no flour required, they’re a great gluten-free option and perfect for kids who love coconut—and chocolate, if you dip them!

📝 Ingredients:

• 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
  
• ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  
• A pinch of salt
  
• 2 large egg whites
  
• ¼ tsp cream of tartar (optional, for extra fluffiness)
  
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for dipping)
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
   
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites (and cream of tartar, if using) until stiff peaks form.
   
4. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the coconut mixture until just combined.
   
5. Scoop heaping tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
   
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown on the edges and lightly toasted on top.
   
7. Allow to cool completely on the baking sheet.
   
8. (Optional) Melt the chocolate chips and dip the bottoms of each macaroon. Place on parchment paper until chocolate sets.
   

🌞 Summer Tips:

• For a fruity twist, add dried pineapple or mango bits to the mix.
  
• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  
• Make mini versions for kid-sized bites!
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• Sweet and chewy with tropical coconut flavor
  
• Easy to shape and dip in chocolate
  
• A little messy, a lot of fun—and naturally gluten-free!
  

8. S’mores Cookies

🔥 S’mores Cookies

Bring the magic of campfires indoors with these S’mores Cookies! Loaded with gooey marshmallows, melty chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers, these cookies pack all the classic campfire flavor into a soft, chewy treat—no flames required.

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  
• ¾ cup brown sugar
  
• ½ cup granulated sugar
  
• 2 large eggs
  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  
• 1 tsp baking soda
  
• ½ tsp salt
  
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
  
• 4 graham cracker sheets, broken into small pieces
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
   
2. In a large bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
   
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
   
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
   
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
   
6. Fold in chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces.
   
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the baking sheet, leaving space to spread.
   
8. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until edges are golden and marshmallows are lightly browned.
   
9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
   

🌞 Summer Tips:

• For extra gooey centers, press a few extra marshmallows and chocolate chips on top before baking.
  
• Swap semi-sweet chips with milk chocolate chunks for that classic s’mores taste.
  
• Want a crispy edge? Bake a minute longer and cool completely on the pan.
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• All the fun of s’mores without the fire
  
• Gooey marshmallow and chocolate combo is irresistible
  
• Great for backyard parties or summer movie nights
  

9. Orange Creamsicle Cookies

🍊 Orange Creamsicle Cookies

Inspired by the nostalgic frozen treat, these Orange Creamsicle Cookies combine creamy vanilla and citrusy orange in every soft, chewy bite. They’re bursting with summer flavor and are sure to be a hit with kids looking for a sweet and tangy snack!

📝 Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  
• ¾ tsp baking soda
  
• ½ tsp salt
  
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
  
• ¾ cup brown sugar
  
• 2 large eggs
  
• 1 tbsp orange zest (about 1 large orange)
  
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
  
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
   
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
   
3. In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
   
4. Add eggs, one at a time, then mix in orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
   
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
   
6. Fold in white chocolate chips.
   
7. Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place on prepared baking sheets.
   
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden and centers are just set.
   
9. Cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
   

🌞 Summer Tips:

• For extra citrus zing, add a few drops of orange extract.
  
• Want a glaze? Mix powdered sugar with a bit of orange juice and drizzle over cooled cookies.
  
• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze extras for a cool treat later.
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• Tastes just like the classic creamsicle popsicle
  
• Sweet, tangy, and creamy all at once
  
• Fun to make and even better to share!
  

10. Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

🍌 Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Soft, naturally sweet, and packed with flavor, these Peanut Butter Banana Cookies are a healthier summer treat kids will love. Made with ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter, they’re perfect for little snackers—and there’s no refined sugar if you skip the chips!

📝 Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
  
• ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
  
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
  
• 1 cup rolled oats
  
• ½ tsp baking soda
  
• ¼ tsp salt
  
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
  
• ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips or raisins (optional)
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
2. In a large bowl, mash the banana. Add peanut butter, honey (or syrup), and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
   
3. Stir in oats, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
   
4. Fold in mini chocolate chips or raisins, if using.
   
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Flatten slightly on the baking sheet.
   
6. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are set. The cookies will remain soft.
   
7. Let cool for 5 minutes on the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
   

🌞 Summer Tips:

• For a chilled version, store in the fridge—they’re even more refreshing cold!
  
• Want nut-free? Substitute sunflower seed butter.
  
• Freeze leftovers for a grab-and-go summer snack.
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• Naturally sweet with banana and a hint of chocolate
  
• Soft and chewy texture—no dry cookies here!
  
• Great as a snack or quick breakfast cookie
  

11. Frozen Yogurt Cookie Bites

🍪❄️ Frozen Yogurt Cookie Bites

Looking for a cool, refreshing treat that doubles as a fun summer snack? These Frozen Yogurt Cookie Bites are a healthy twist on classic cookies. With a crunchy cookie base and creamy yogurt topping, they’re fun to make and even more fun to eat—especially on a hot day!

📝 Ingredients:

• 12 mini vanilla or graham cookies (or use a small cookie cutter on homemade sugar cookies)
  
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or flavored)
  
• 1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
  
• ¼ cup chopped fresh fruit (like strawberries, blueberries, or mango)
  
• Mini chocolate chips or granola (optional topping)
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
   
2. Place the cookies on the tray, spaced evenly.
   
3. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with honey or syrup if using.
   
4. Spoon or pipe a dollop of yogurt on top of each cookie.
   
5. Top with chopped fruit, chocolate chips, or granola.
   
6. Freeze for 1–2 hours, or until yogurt is firm.
   
7. Store in an airtight container in the freezer and enjoy within a week for best taste.
   

🌞 Summer Tips:

• Use flavored yogurt (like strawberry or vanilla) for added color and taste.
  
• Let kids build their own for a fun DIY snack station.
  
• Serve immediately from the freezer to prevent melting.
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• Cold and creamy like a mini frozen dessert
  
• Fun to top and decorate with favorite fruits or sprinkles
  
• A light, healthier option that still feels like a treat!
  

12. Beach Ball Sugar Cookies

🏖️ Beach Ball Sugar Cookies

Bring the beach to your kitchen with these Beach Ball Sugar Cookies! Brightly decorated to resemble beach balls, these sugar cookies are perfect for summer parties, pool days, or just a fun baking activity with kids. They’re not just tasty—they’re also a mini art project in every bite.

📝 Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  
• 1 tsp baking soda
  
• ½ tsp baking powder
  
• ½ tsp salt
  
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  
• 1 cup granulated sugar
  
• 1 large egg
  
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
  
• 1 tbsp milk (optional, for softer dough)
  

For the Icing:

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  
• 2–3 tbsp milk
  
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
  
• Food coloring (red, blue, yellow)
  
• Black or chocolate candy melts (for the beach ball “button”)
  

🍪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
   
2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
   
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla.
   
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Add a splash of milk if the dough feels too dry.
   
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thick. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or a drinking glass.
   
6. Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely before decorating.
   
7. For icing: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Divide into small bowls and tint with food coloring.
   
8. Using a piping bag or spoon, decorate each cookie like a beach ball: alternate colored segments with white stripes and finish with a small black dot in the center.
   
9. Let icing set completely before serving or storing.
   

🌞 Summer Tips:

• Use royal icing if you want a glossy, professional finish.
  
• Let kids decorate their own beach balls—messy and creative fun!
  
• Store in a single layer in an airtight container to preserve the design.
  

👩‍🍳 Why Kids Love It:

• Bright, colorful, and summer-themed
  
• A decorating activity and dessert in one
  
• Perfect for beach or pool-themed parties
  

Baking Tips for Summer Fun with Kids:

• Keep it cool: Opt for no-bake recipes or bake during cooler hours.
  
• Get kids involved: Let them mix, scoop, and decorate.
  
• Go colorful: Use summery colors and fun shapes for visual appeal.
  
• Store right: Keep cookies in airtight containers or the fridge if they contain fruit or dairy.
  

Final Thoughts

Baking cookies in the summer can be more than just a sweet treat—it can be a bonding activity filled with creativity and joy. From zesty lemon cookies to colorful beach ball sugar treats, these 12 summer cookies for kids are sure to bring smiles and sticky fingers.