There are bar cookies, molded cookies, drop cookies, pressed cookies, refrigerator cookies, and cutout/rolled cookies we just want a simple basic cookie we call "variety cookies".

The dough is basic and can be made into so many kinds, it's one dough that transforms from basic to gourmet just by whatever you add to it. Simple and perfect during the holidays.

Since it's Christmas in July, we decided if we are going to bake in this hot weather it better be easy one-dough cookies to make all our favorites!

If you want to fill them roll them in balls make a dent in the center and fill them after baking.

If you want chocolate chips, or another flavor add them.

Separate the dough into 4 piles of dough, add whatever you like (see suggestions), and bake!

Here is a basic dough for you to work with:

Christmas in July Cookies a one dough that makes a variety! Via @Whats Cookin Italian Style Cuisine.comPhoto byClaudia Lamascolo

Variety Dough Recipe: (makes around 85 cookies)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/2 cups unsalted butter softened to room temperature, (5 sticks)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs softened
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, almond extract, or another you prefer

Directions:

1. Using a stand mixer add the butter and sugar and cream together (or by hand)until blended.
2. Add the rest of the wet ingredients into the bowl and blend until well incorporated.
3. Slowly add the dry ingredients, and mix evenly together.
4. Cut into 4 sections and wrap.
5. Refrigerate until ready to bake.
6. Bake at 350 degrees.
7. Shape into 1 tablespoon of dough to your choice on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges begin to brown.
9. Cool first before frosting or filling.

What Kinds Can I Make with Mix-ins?

• add nuts
• add flavored baking chips
• roll, add indentation, and bake fill with any flavored jams or fill with a layer of jelly and top with peanut butter
• add cocoa powder to a portion of chocolate and chocolate chips
• roll into a ball bake then after baking roll into powdered sugar
• roll out cut out, bake, and frost
• place dough on a small baking sheet add candy-coated chocolate bake, cool slice into bars
• mix in your favorite chopped candy bars
• add lemon extract and lemon zest or orange
• maple extract and walnuts
• fresh fruits like blueberries
• coconut shredded

Other Cookie Recipes To Try:

Cucidati Fig Sicilian Cookies

24 One-Stop Cookie Shop

Fried Bow Tie Cookies

25 Holiday Cookies