Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easter Basket Cookies are a festive springtime treat that combine the fun of decorating with the joy of sweet, chewy cookies. These adorable cookies are shaped like mini nests and filled with colorful candies to mimic Easter baskets, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or fun baking activities with kids. With a soft cookie base and a vibrant presentation, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone at the table.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flour
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
light brown sugar
eggs
vanilla extract
baking soda
salt
shredded sweetened coconut
green food coloring
mini chocolate eggs or jelly beans

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet and press your thumb or a spoon into the center of each to form a small indentation.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.

While cookies cool, mix the shredded coconut with green food coloring to resemble grass.

Once cookies are fully cooled, place a small amount of green coconut in each indentation.

Top each cookie with 2-3 mini chocolate eggs or jelly beans to complete the “basket” look.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Cooling and decorating time: 20 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Use chocolate cookie dough for a rich twist.
Swap green coconut for piped green frosting “grass.”
Add a drizzle of white chocolate for extra flair.
Try different candy fillings like pastel M&Ms or marshmallow chicks.

storage/reheating

Store Easter Basket Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Refrigerate if using perishable fillings like cream cheese frosting.
Cookies can be frozen before decorating for up to 2 months. Thaw before adding toppings.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cookies in advance and decorate closer to serving time.

Is the colored coconut necessary?
No, it’s just decorative—you can skip or substitute with green frosting.

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Absolutely, just form the indentations before baking.

How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

Are these cookies safe for kids to decorate?
Yes, they’re a great interactive treat for kids.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

What if I don’t have food coloring?
You can leave the coconut plain or use naturally colored sprinkles instead.

Do I need to toast the coconut?
No, but toasting adds a nutty flavor if desired.

How do I shape the cookies evenly?
Use a cookie scoop and press the center gently with a spoon.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?
Yes, just be sure the center remains clear for decorating.

Conclusion

Easter Basket Cookies are a charming and delicious way to celebrate the season. With their colorful toppings and simple preparation, they bring the spirit of Easter to your dessert table in a fun, festive way. Ideal for sharing or decorating with kids, these cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite.