Ree Drummond’s (Pioneer Woman) Graduation Cookies Copycat Recipe

Looking for the ultimate celebratory treat? Ree Drummond’s Graduation Cookies are just the thing. With colorful sprinkles, rich brown sugar, and the perfect soft-chewy texture, these cookies bring joy to any graduation party or family gathering. They’re quick, foolproof, and irresistibly festive—ideal for anyone craving a bite of homemade happiness.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Chewy and Soft: The perfect texture combo in every bite.
• No-Chill Dough: You can mix and bake right away—no waiting!
• Celebration-Ready: Rainbow sprinkles make them fun for grads and guests alike.
• Easy to Double: Perfect for feeding a crowd at graduation parties.

What Are Ree Drummond’s Graduation Cookies?

These cookies are Ree Drummond’s go-to recipe when she wants a quick, colorful, and crowd-pleasing dessert. Created with pantry staples like butter, eggs, and brown sugar, and jazzed up with sprinkles and mini chocolate chips, they hit the sweet spot between classic chocolate chip cookies and a celebration-ready sugar cookie. They're chewy in the center, golden on the edges, and completely irresistible.

Pro Tips for the Best Graduation Cookies

• Use room temperature butter to ensure smooth mixing.
• Don’t skip the brown sugar—it adds moisture and depth.
• Mini chips melt better into the dough than full-sized chocolate chips.
• Sprinkle on more rainbow jimmies just before baking for extra pop and crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Regular Chocolate Chips?

Yes, but mini chips spread more evenly and give a better texture in each bite.

Do I Have to Use Rainbow Sprinkles?

Not at all! You can swap in chocolate sprinkles, confetti, or use school colors to match the graduation theme.

Can I Make the Dough Ahead?

Yes, though Ree’s recipe is a no-chill dough, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours for even thicker cookies.

How Do I Keep the Cookies Soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Are These Cookies Good for Mailing?

Absolutely! Their chewy texture and sturdy shape make them perfect for shipping to out-of-town grads.

How to Store

Let the cookies cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, store them with a slice of bread to help retain their soft texture.

How to Freeze

You can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies.

• For dough: Scoop portions onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen with an extra 1–2 minutes added.
• For baked cookies: Cool completely and freeze in a single layer before transferring to a container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature and enjoy within 2 months.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• ¾ cup rainbow sprinkles (plus extra for topping)

How to Make Ree Drummond’s Graduation Cookies