Single Cookie Recipe – A Quick and Easy One-Serving Treat

Craving a warm, freshly baked cookie but don’t want to make a whole batch? This single cookie recipe is perfect for those moments when you just need one soft, chewy, or crispy cookie without the extra effort or leftovers.

Made with simple pantry ingredients, this one-serving cookie can be customized to your taste—whether you want a classic chocolate chip cookie, a rich peanut butter cookie, or a chewy oatmeal cookie. Plus, it only takes a few minutes to mix and bake, making it a quick and satisfying dessert anytime!

Want to try a trendy dessert twist? Check out this Crookie Recipe – Cookie Croissant for a fun combination of flaky pastry and a soft, chewy cookie!

In this guide, we’ll cover:
The basic ingredients for a perfect single cookie
Step-by-step instructions to mix and bake quickly
Flavor variations like double chocolate, peanut butter, and oatmeal
Tips for achieving the perfect texture (soft, chewy, or crispy)

Sometimes, you just want one perfect cookie without making a whole batch. This small-batch recipe lets you enjoy a freshly baked, homemade cookie in minutes. Below are the essential ingredients for a single-serving cookie, along with easy substitutions and mix-in ideas.

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Provides structure.
  • For a chewier texture: Use bread flour instead.
  • For a gluten-free option: Use almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

2. Butter – For Richness and Flavor

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted – Creates a soft, buttery texture.
  • For a dairy-free option: Use vegan butter or coconut oil.

3. Sugar – Adds Sweetness and Texture

  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Keeps the cookie soft and chewy.
  • ½ tablespoon granulated sugar – Helps with crisp edges.
  • For a lower-sugar option: Use coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener.

4. Egg Yolk Substitute – For Binding

Since this is a single-cookie recipe, using a whole egg would be too much. Try one of these alternatives:

  • 1 teaspoon milk or heavy cream – Best for texture and binding.
  • ½ teaspoon Greek yogurt – Adds moisture and a slight tang.
  • ½ teaspoon unsweetened applesauce – A great egg-free option.

5. Flavor Enhancers

  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.
  • A pinch of salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
  • ⅛ teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookie rise slightly.

Make your single cookie recipe unique with your favorite add-ins:

  • 1 tablespoon chocolate chips – Classic and gooey.
  • ½ tablespoon chopped nuts – Adds crunch (almonds, pecans, or walnuts).
  • 1 teaspoon peanut butter or Nutella – Swirl it in for extra richness.
  • A sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder – Adds a flavor twist.

For an extra homemade touch, try using Vanilla Paste instead of extract for a richer flavor.

With these simple ingredients, you can whip up a single delicious cookie anytime a craving strikes! Ready to bake? Check out the step-by-step instructions next.

Follow these quick and easy steps to mix, shape, bake, and cool your perfect single-serving cookie in just minutes!

1. Mix the Dough

  1. In a small bowl, mix together:
    • 1 tablespoon melted butter
    • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
    • ½ tablespoon granulated sugar
  2. Stir until smooth, then add:
    • 1 teaspoon milk (or egg yolk substitute)
    • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
    • A pinch of salt
  3. Mix well, then stir in:
    • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    • ⅛ teaspoon baking powder
  4. Fold in your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips, nuts, or peanut butter.

  1. Form the dough into a ball and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a lightly greased plate.
  2. Flatten slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon (for a thinner, crispier cookie).

  • Oven method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are golden brown.
  • Air fryer method: Bake at 320°F (160°C) for 6–8 minutes.
  • Microwave method: Cook on high for 45–60 seconds (results may vary based on microwave power).

Want a brown sugar-free version? Try this Chocolate Chip Cookies Without Brown Sugar for an alternative recipe!

4. Cool and Enjoy

  1. Let the cookie cool for 2–3 minutes to set.
  2. For an extra treat, top with a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
  3. Enjoy warm with a glass of milk or coffee!

This single-cookie recipe is perfect for satisfying cravings in minutes without making a whole batch.

One of the best things about this single-serving cookie recipe is how easily customizable it is! Whether you love classic chocolate chip, rich peanut butter, or a chewy oatmeal raisin cookie, here’s how to make it your own.

A timeless favorite—soft, chewy, and packed with chocolate.

How to Make It:

  • Add 1 tablespoon chocolate chips (semi-sweet, dark, or milk).
  • For extra gooeyness, press a few extra chips on top before baking.

Tip: A small pinch of flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweetness!

Rich, nutty, and slightly crispy on the edges.

How to Make It:

  • Replace 1 teaspoon of butter with 1 teaspoon peanut butter.
  • Use brown sugar only for extra chewiness.
  • Before baking, gently press the dough ball with a fork to make a crisscross pattern.

Tip: Try using almond butter or cashew butter for a unique twist.

For chocolate lovers, this variation is rich, fudgy, and indulgent.

How to Make It:

  • Add ½ tablespoon cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
  • Use 1 tablespoon chocolate chips (dark chocolate for an intense flavor).
  • Increase the milk (or egg substitute) by ½ teaspoon to keep the dough soft.

Tip: A sprinkle of espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor!

For a unique take, try the Crookie Recipe for a delicious cookie-pastry combo!

Chewy, hearty, and lightly spiced—perfect with a cup of coffee!

How to Make It:

  • Replace 1 tablespoon of flour with 1 tablespoon quick oats.
  • Add ½ tablespoon raisins or chopped dates.
  • Stir in a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor.

Tip: Use golden raisins for a slightly sweeter taste.

Bonus: Fun Add-Ins & Mix-Ins

  • White chocolate & macadamia nuts – A buttery, tropical combo.
  • Toasted coconut flakes – Adds crunch and flavor.
  • Crushed pretzels – A sweet and salty balance.
  • Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds) – Adds texture.

With these customizations, you can make a single cookie recipe that fits your cravings every time!

The texture of your single-serving cookie depends on a few key factors, including baking time, ingredient ratios, and mixing techniques. Whether you prefer a soft, chewy, or crispy cookie, here’s how to get the perfect result.

For a cookie that’s tender and slightly cakey, try these adjustments:

  • Use more brown sugar than white sugar – Brown sugar retains moisture.
  • Add an extra teaspoon of milk or egg substitute – Keeps the dough softer.
  • Bake at a slightly lower temperature (325°F/163°C) – Slows down spreading and keeps the center soft.
  • Remove from the oven slightly underbaked – The cookie will continue to set as it cools.

Tip: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain softness.

For that chewy, bakery-style texture, follow these tips:

  • Use all brown sugar – It attracts more moisture than white sugar.
  • Melt the butter before mixing – Helps create a denser, chewier cookie.
  • Chill the dough for 10 minutes before baking – Prevents excessive spreading.
  • Let the cookie cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes – This keeps the center chewy.

Tip: Adding ½ teaspoon cornstarch to the dough enhances chewiness.

If you love a thin, crispy cookie, try these techniques:

  • Use more white sugar than brown sugar – White sugar creates a crisper texture.
  • Flatten the dough before baking – Helps it spread more.
  • Increase baking time by 1–2 minutes – Extra time makes the edges golden and crispy.
  • Bake at a higher temperature (375°F/190°C) – Helps the edges set quickly.

Tip: Let the cookie cool completely on a wire rack to keep it crisp.

By adjusting ingredients and baking times, you can create the perfect cookie texture to match your preference!

If you want to enjoy a single-serving cookie while keeping it healthier, try these simple ingredient swaps. Whether you’re looking to reduce sugar, use whole grains, or make it dairy-free, here’s how to adjust the recipe without sacrificing flavor.

1. Reduce Sugar or Use Healthier Alternatives

  • Replace white sugar with coconut sugar – Has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like taste.
  • Use maple syrup or honey – Provides natural sweetness while keeping the cookie soft.
  • Try monk fruit or erythritol – Zero-calorie sweeteners that mimic sugar’s taste and texture.
  • Cut the sugar by 25–50% – The cookie will still be delicious with less sweetness.

Tip: If using a liquid sweetener, reduce the milk slightly to prevent the dough from becoming too wet.

Want a sugar-free alternative? Check out this Chocolate Chip Cookies Without Brown Sugar for more options!

2. Swap in Whole Wheat or Alternative Flours

  • Use whole wheat flour – Replaces all-purpose flour for extra fiber and nutrients.
  • Try oat flour – A naturally gluten-free option that adds a soft, chewy texture.
  • Use almond flour – Creates a nutty, lower-carb cookie while keeping it moist.

Tip: Whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, so add an extra teaspoon of milk if needed.

3. Make It Dairy-Free

  • Replace butter with coconut oil – Adds richness and a hint of natural sweetness.
  • Use dairy-free margarine or vegan butter – Keeps the classic texture.
  • Swap milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk – Works as a 1:1 substitute.

Tip: If using coconut oil, chill the dough for 5 minutes before baking to prevent excess spreading.

By making these simple swaps, you can create a healthier version of your favorite cookie while still enjoying its delicious taste and texture.

Yes! If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the cookie for a quick, soft-baked version:

  • Place the cookie dough on a microwave-safe plate.
  • Microwave on high for 40–60 seconds.
  • Let it cool for 1–2 minutes before eating, as it will continue to set.

Tip: Microwave cookies won’t be as crispy as oven-baked ones, but they’ll still be delicious!

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with one of these gluten-free options:

  • 1:1 gluten-free flour blend – Best for maintaining texture.
  • Almond flour – Adds a slightly nutty flavor and keeps the cookie soft.
  • Oat flour – Naturally gluten-free and great for a chewy texture.

Tip: If using almond or oat flour, reduce the liquid slightly to prevent a too-soft dough.

Since this is a small-batch recipe, it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, if you want to save it:

  • Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
  • Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap in plastic wrap and store in a ziplock bag for up to 1 month.

Tip: To reheat, microwave the cookie for 10–15 seconds or warm it in a low-temperature oven (300°F/150°C) for a few minutes.

Conclusion

This single cookie recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without making a full batch. Whether you like it soft, chewy, crispy, or packed with chocolate chips, you can easily customize it to your taste. Plus, with healthy swaps and gluten-free options, it’s a treat anyone can enjoy!

Quick and easy to make
Customizable with mix-ins and flavors
Enjoy fresh, no leftovers to worry about

Now it’s time to try it yourself! Whether you bake it in the oven or microwave, this one-cookie recipe will be your new go-to for a warm, delicious homemade treat. Let me know your favorite variations!

Single Cookie

Single Cookie Recipe

Craving a cookie but don’t want a full batch? Try this easy single cookie recipe—customizable, quick, and made with simple ingredients!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Resting Time 2 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 1 Cookie
Calories 150 kcal

INGREDIENTS
  

Basic Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil for dairy-free
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • ½ tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon milk or egg yolk substitute
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • teaspoon baking powder

Mix-In Ideas (Choose One or More!):

  • 1 tablespoon chocolate chips – Classic and gooey.
  • ½ tablespoon chopped nuts – Adds crunch.
  • 1 teaspoon peanut butter – For a nutty twist.
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon or cocoa powder – For extra flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS
 

Mix the Dough

  • In a small bowl, mix melted butter, sugars, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Add milk (or egg substitute) and stir well.
  • Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
  • Fold in chocolate chips or other mix-ins.

Shape the Cookie

  • Form the dough into a ball and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet (for oven) or a microwave-safe plate.
  • Flatten slightly for a thinner, crispier cookie.

Bake or Microwave the Cookie

  • Oven Method: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 8–10 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
  • Microwave Method: Cook on high for 40–60 seconds for a quick, soft-baked version.

Cool and Enjoy

  • Let the cookie cool for 2–3 minutes to set properly.
  • Enjoy warm with a glass of milk or coffee.

NOTES

Pro Tips for the Best Single Cookie
  • For a softer cookie, slightly underbake it and let it finish setting as it cools.
  • For a crispier cookie, bake for an extra 1–2 minutes.
  • Chill the dough for 5–10 minutes before baking for a chewier texture.
  • Try adding a pinch of flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-salty balance.
 
With this simple single cookie recipe, you can enjoy a freshly baked treat anytime, without making a full batch!

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