Easy Cookies and Bars for Back to School Lunches

Packing school lunches again? Keep it simple with homemade cookies and bars that are quick to prep and easy to enjoy. They’re great for kids and just as handy for your own afternoon snack.

These recipes use everyday ingredients and don’t require a lot of time. You’ll find classics like chocolate chip bars and oatmeal cookies reliable, no-fuss favorites that hold up well in lunchboxes.

Whether you’re baking ahead for the week or whipping up a quick batch the night before, these treats are practical and loved by all ages. Perfect for making back-to-school routines a little bit sweeter.

Cowboy Cookies

These hearty cookies are packed with rolled oats, chocolate chips, and a little crunch from nuts. They’re the kind of cookie that feels a bit extra—in a good way. Ideal for potlucks, lunchboxes, or whenever you need a grab-and-go snack with a bit of heft. They bake up soft in the middle with just the right crisp on the edges.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cookies

Gluten Free Banana Bars

Made with ripe bananas and no gluten in sight, these bars are a smart way to use up fruit that’s a little past its prime. Moist and lightly sweet, they work well as a snack or breakfast treat. You won’t miss the flour thanks to the soft texture and hint of cinnamon. Optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts give it a bit more personality.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Banana Bars

Texas Sheet Cake Cookies

Inspired by the classic sheet cake, these cookies are rich, chocolatey, and come with a fudgy icing that sets beautifully. They’re thinner than your usual cookie but don’t skimp on flavor. A quick bake and even quicker glaze make these a favorite for chocolate lovers. Best served with a cold glass of milk.
Get the Recipe: Texas Sheet Cake Cookies

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

A little nutty, a little chewy, and a lot nostalgic—these cookies combine two favorites in one easy treat. They hold up well in lunchboxes and make a great pick-me-up in the afternoon. Not overly sweet, they let the peanut butter shine. Add a few chocolate chips for good measure if you’d like.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

Peanut Butter Blossom Bars

All the charm of peanut butter blossoms, but in easy-to-slice bar form. These bake in one pan, making them ideal for crowds or casual gifting. Each square has that familiar combo of peanut butter and a chocolate center. Less fuss than individual cookies, but just as tasty.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Blossom Bars

Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars

These bars layer creamy cookie butter with a crumbly streusel topping that adds just the right crunch. They’re simple to make and even easier to eat. Perfect for coffee breaks or as a sweet treat at brunch. The spiced cookie flavor gives them a cozy twist.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Streusel Bars

Kitchen Sink Cookies

True to their name, these cookies throw in a bit of everything—chocolate, pretzels, nuts, maybe even butterscotch. They’re chewy, crunchy, and full of surprises in every bite. Great for using up odds and ends in your pantry. Best enjoyed fresh but freeze beautifully, too.
Get the Recipe: Kitchen Sink Cookies

Almond Flour Cookies

With a soft texture and slightly nutty flavor, these cookies keep things simple yet satisfying. Almond flour gives them a tender crumb without needing any traditional flour. Whether you’re avoiding gluten or just trying something different, they’re a solid choice. A touch of vanilla or citrus zest can bring extra flair.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Cookies

Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

When time’s tight, cake mix has your back—especially in these gooey, golden cookie bars. Just a few pantry staples and you’re good to go. They’re soft, loaded with chocolate, and crowd-pleasing every time. Great for bake sales or last-minute dessert needs.
Get the Recipe: Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Sweet and slightly tart yellow plums get baked between layers of buttery crumble. These bars are fruity without being too heavy, with just enough structure to hold together. A nice change from the usual berries or apples. Dust with powdered sugar once cool for a polished finish.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Plum Crumble Bars

Brookies

Half brownie, half cookie—these layered bars give you the best of both worlds. Rich and fudgy meets chewy and sweet, all in one bite. Great for indecisive dessert lovers or anyone who wants something a little extra. They’re a hit at parties and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Brookies

Spiced Shortbread Cookies

Classic shortbread gets a cozy twist with the addition of warm spices like cinnamon or cardamom. They’re buttery, crisp, and just right with a cup of tea or coffee. The dough comes together quickly and holds its shape well when baked. Perfect for gifting or keeping in the cookie jar.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Shortbread Cookies

Buckeye Stuffed Cookies

If you’re into peanut butter and chocolate, these are hard to resist. A soft chocolate cookie wraps around a creamy peanut butter center—kind of like a buckeye candy in disguise. Rich, sweet, and filling. Definitely a treat meant for sharing (or not).
Get the Recipe: Buckeye Stuffed Cookies

Molly Bars

These bars are all about layers—soft, sweet, and often a bit nostalgic. Usually a mix of cookie base, chocolate, and maybe some marshmallows or condensed milk. They’re easy to make and great for feeding a crowd. Expect sticky fingers and happy faces.
Get the Recipe: Molly Bars

Biscoff Cookie Butter Cookies

Soft, chewy, and full of that unique spiced cookie flavor, these are a great twist on your usual cookie lineup. Cookie butter adds richness and a touch of warmth. Perfect for holiday trays or year-round snacking. A sprinkle of sea salt on top wouldn’t hurt either.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Cookie Butter Cookies

Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Extra cocoa and lots of chocolate chips give these cookies their name and their bold flavor. They bake up soft in the center with crisp edges—just what you want in a chocolate cookie. Ideal for true chocolate fans. Serve warm for the ultimate experience.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

M&M’s Pretzel Cookies

A little sweet, a little salty—these cookies hit both notes with colorful M&M’s and bits of pretzel. Chewy with a hint of crunch, they’re a playful twist on a classic. Perfect for parties or cookie exchanges. Kids especially love the pop of color.
Get the Recipe: M&M’s Pretzel Cookies

Pumpkin Bars

Soft, warmly spiced, and perfect for fall—but honestly good any time of year. These bars are tender with just enough sweetness and a smooth texture. Great on their own or with a bit of frosting. Keeps well, making them easy to make ahead.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bars

Iced Molasses Cookies

These cookies are deeply spiced and finished with a simple icing that sets into a pretty glaze. Soft and chewy, they pair nicely with tea or coffee. The molasses adds depth without overpowering. A solid choice for holiday baking or cozy afternoons.
Get the Recipe: Iced Molasses Cookies

Double Chocolate Blossom Cookies

A chocolatey spin on a well-loved classic, these cookies are rich and sweet with a glossy chocolate center. They look festive and bake quickly. Think of them as the more intense cousin of peanut butter blossoms. Great for gifting or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Blossom Cookies

Super Quick Snickerdoodle Bars

Everything you love about snickerdoodles but baked into bars for less hassle. Cinnamon-sugar tops a soft, chewy base that comes together fast. No chilling or rolling needed. A great go-to when you’re craving something warm and comforting in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: Super Quick Snickerdoodle Bars