13 unconventional sweets you didn’t know you needed

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Ever had that moment where you thought, “I’ve tried every cookie out there?” Well, think again. These 13 recipes are miles away from the usual. They come with unexpected flavors, daring twists on the classics, and some genuine “wow, I didn’t see that coming” moments. Whether you’re looking to surprise guests or just jazz up your weekend baking game, these recipes are a game-changer. And hey, even if you’re a bit skeptical, remember: life’s too short for ordinary cookies. So, why not take your taste buds on a wild ride?

Black sesame cookies on a baking sheet with a spoonful of black sesame seeds.
Black Sesame Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies

Stack of hot cocoa cookies on a plate.
Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Ever thought about using your air fryer for cookies? I stumbled upon these Hot Cocoa Cookies and let me tell you, they’re a game-changer. Imagine sipping hot cocoa, but in cookie form. Trust me, this is one of the 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes you didn’t know you needed. Dive in and enjoy the magic!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies

Chocolate Rugelach

Low angle shot of rugelach cookies filled with chocolate and pecans.
Chocolate Rugelach. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Okay, ever heard of Rugelach? These European goodies are now on my must-have list. Crescent-shaped and filled with chocolate, they’re like a pastry’s answer to the chocolate bar. Seriously, add it to the list of 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes to shake up your baking routine.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Rugelach

Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Stack of peanut butter cookies on a wooden board with a small bowl of peanut butter and a striped napkin.
Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Back to the air fryer, because why not? Peanut Butter Cookies out of the air fryer might sound odd, but oh, the crispy-soft combination is everything! It’s another gem in our list of 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes. Who would’ve thought, right?
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Ginger Snaps

Low angle shot of a single gingersnap cookie broken in half.
Ginger Snaps. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Now, Ginger Snaps aren’t new, but have you tried making them at home? They’re spicy, snappy, and just the right amount of sweet. Definitely deserving of a spot on the 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes to try. Let’s spice things up a bit!
Get the Recipe: Ginger Snaps

Dulce de Leche Cookies

Overhead shot of dulce de leche cookies.
Dulce de Leche Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

South America has given us the treat of Dulce de Leche. Now, imagine that in a cookie! Creamy, caramel-y, and oh-so-delicious. If you’re not already baking these, they’re an absolute must in our list of 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes.
Get the Recipe: Dulce de Leche Cookies

Hamentashen

Hamentashen cookies piled on a white plate with more cookies on a rack in the background. There is jar of jam with a spoon in it in the background too.
Hamentashen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dive into history with Hamentashen. They’re not just for Purim, these triangular delights filled with fruit or nuts are a sweet trip back in time. It’s heritage and sweetness in one, and of course, it’s part of the 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes I’m raving about.
Get the Recipe: Hamentashen

Flourless Chocolate Cookies

Overhead shot of cookies on a white cloth with a glass of milk.
Flourless Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

No flour? No problem! These Flourless Chocolate Cookies are dense, chewy, and perfect for our gluten-free friends. It’s hard to believe they’re so good without flour. Clearly, they belong in our list of 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes.
Get the Recipe: Flourless Chocolate Cookies

Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon

Low-angled shot of a honey cookie broken in half with stacks of honey cookies and a glass of milk in the background.
Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

These aren’t your average sugar cookies. Think honey sweetness, a hint of orange, and a dash of cinnamon. Perfect for those who like their treats subtly sweet. Trust me, it’s one of the 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes you need in your life.
Get the Recipe: Honey Cookies with Orange and Cinnamon

Quaker Oatmeal Cookies

Low angle shot of oatmeal cookies on a white plate.
Quaker Oatmeal Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Turning breakfast into dessert, Quaker Oatmeal Cookies are both hearty and satisfying. They feel wholesome but taste indulgent. They’re a perfect addition to the list of 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes you didn’t know you needed.
Get the Recipe: Quaker Oatmeal Cookies

Kolacky

Several poppy seed filled kolacky on a white plate with red and gold ribbons in the background.
Kolacky. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Time for a trip to Central Europe with Kolacky. Delicate, flaky, and filled with fruit, every bite is an experience. If you haven’t tried them yet, add them to your list of 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes to explore.
Get the Recipe: Kolacky

Black Sesame Cookies

Black sesame cookies on a baking sheet with a spoonful of black sesame seeds.
Black Sesame Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Move over vanilla; black sesame is here! Nutty and rich, these cookies are not just delicious but they look stunning too. Another addition to our growing list of 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes that you have to try.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Cookies

Rhubarb Cookies

Stacked rhubarb cookies with slices of rhubarb.
Rhubarb Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Who said rhubarb’s just for pies? These cookies are tangy, sweet, and absolutely delightful. Yep, you guessed it, they made it to the list of 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes that’ll change your baking game.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Cookies

Salted Toffee Cookie Bars

Stack of 3 toffee cookies.
Salted Toffee Cookie Bars. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Sweet, salty, and simply irresistible, these cookie bars are a treat for the senses. With chunks of toffee and that hint of salt, it’s a flavor party. And yes, they’re rounding off our list of 13 unconventional sweet cookie recipes that you’ll love.
Get the Recipe: Salted Toffee Cookie Bars

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