Finding great cookie recipe variations always puts a smile on my face. If there's one sweet treat I can't say no too it's a perfectly baked cookie.
In the quest to try new flavors I've found the best thing to do is change a few ingredients instead of trying to re-invent the wheel with a whole new recipe. Simple changes can make your old cookie recipe seem like sometime brand new.
The basic structure shouldn't change but you can play around with different flavors. If your recipe called for equal parts white and brown sugar using only brown sugar will make the cookie much richer. Also using only white sugar will give a softer flavor.
Along with your classic vanilla extract you can add a few teaspoons of your favorite flavored extract or liquor. Almond extract is great for an everyday cookie, lemon gives a nice springtime flavor, brandy extract brings memories of Christmas and peppermint is always refreshing.
Some of my favorite cookie recipe variations begin with the endless varieties of chips available. Subsisting peanut butter, butterscotch or cinnamon chips can make for a whole new cookie experience. Even if you prefer chocolate there are milk, white, dark, semi sweet or mint chocolate chips to choose from.
M&M's or other candy pieces also make a great twist. Think of crushed pieces of peppermint, toffee or your favorite candy and give it a try.
Sliced or chopped nuts add extra crunch along with their distinct flavors. Chopped or crushed almonds, pecans or macadamias nuts are classics for cookies.
Dipping your cookies in tempered chocolate or drizzling them can add another layer of flavor. If you're not into working with chocolate you can make a frosting for your cookies instead.
Frost the bottom of your cookie and slap a second one on and you have a sandwich cookie. Fill two cookies with a scoop of softened ice cream and put them in a freezer for a bit and you have an ice cream sandwich.