Black White Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: half chocolate and half vanilla. These iconic cookies bring a little bakery magic to your own kitchen, perfect for any occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth. Every bite is a mix of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Let’s get started on making these classic cookies!
Why You’ll Love This Black White Cookies
There are countless reasons to love Black White Cookies. Firstly, they are visually appealing with their striking half-and-half color scheme. Secondly, they offer a delightful balance of flavors, making them a versatile dessert option. Thirdly, these cookies are easy to make, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve great results. Additionally, traditional black and white cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings, satisfying both chocolate and vanilla lovers. They also freeze beautifully, allowing you to prepare them ahead of time. Finally, making homemade black and white cookies gives you control over the ingredients, making them as delicious as you desire!
Ingredients for Black White Cookies
Gather these items:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accurate measuring)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (to give gentle lift)
- 1/3 teaspoon baking soda (for balance with the dairy)
- 1/3 teaspoon salt (to sharpen the sweetness)
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature for creaming)
- 1 1/6 cups granulated sugar (for structure and sweetness)
- 1 large egg (brought to room temperature for smooth mixing)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for warm bakery flavor)
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream (room temperature for tenderness)
- 6 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar (measured before sifting for accuracy)
- 8 tablespoons whole milk (divided to control icing thickness)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons light corn syrup (for shine and smooth texture)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract (to flavor the vanilla icing)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt (to keep the icing from tasting flat)
- 3 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for the chocolate half of the icing)
How to Make Black White Cookies Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Heat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats.
- Step 2: Stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.
- Step 3: Beat the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy, then blend in the egg and vanilla until smooth, scraping the bowl as needed.
- Step 4: Lower the mixer speed and add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the sour cream, mixing just until a very thick batter forms with no dry pockets.
- Step 5: Scoop the batter using a greased 1/4-cup measure, spacing mounds well apart on the pans, and bake until the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 6: Let the cookies rest on the pans briefly, then move them to a rack and cool completely before decorating.
- Step 7: Whisk the confectioners’ sugar, most of the milk, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt into a smooth icing, then move about one cup to another bowl and blend in the remaining milk and cocoa.
- Step 8: Spread the vanilla icing over half of each cookie’s flat side and chill briefly so it firms up without running.
- Step 9: Cover the other half with chocolate icing and let the cookies sit until the tops are fully set before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Black White Cookies
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Experiment with different icing flavors if desired.
- For a thicker icing, add more confectioners’ sugar to your mixture.
- To avoid flat cookies, be careful not to overmix the batter.
Best Ways to Serve Black White Cookies
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can enhance your experience. Serve them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee for the perfect afternoon snack. For a festive touch, include them in a dessert platter alongside other black and white desserts. They also pair well with fresh fruit for a balanced treat.
How to Store and Reheat Black White Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain their deliciousness for up to a week. If you want to prepare them in advance, you can freeze the cookies before icing. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them and add your black and white cookie frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Black White Cookies
What’s the secret to perfect Black White Cookies?
The secret to perfect black and white cookies lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Ensure your ingredients are fresh and at room temperature, and avoid overmixing to keep your cookies soft and tender. Proper cooling before icing is also crucial to prevent the icing from melting.
Can I make Black White Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days. Alternatively, baked cookies can be frozen without icing. Just thaw and ice them when you’re ready to serve.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Black White Cookies?
To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to skip the chilling step after icing. This helps the frosting set properly. Also, be careful with your measurements, especially with flour and sugar, to achieve the right texture in your cookies.
Variations of Black White Cookies You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with your black and white cookies! You can add different extracts like almond or lemon for a unique flavor twist. Consider using colored icings for holidays or special occasions. For a fun variation, try adding sprinkles on top of the icing for a festive touch!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Cinnamon Spiced Veggie Loaf or Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies. If you’re looking for a savory option, try our Creamy Sausage Potato Chowder or Irresistible Korean Mexican Shrimp. For a sweet treat, don’t miss our Baked Garlic Chicken Meatloaf.
For more information on baking techniques, you can visit King Arthur Baking’s tips for expert advice.
Print
Black White Cookies: 12 Irresistible Treats to Bake
- Total Time: 44 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These iconic half-chocolate, half-vanilla cookies bring a little bakery magic to your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accurate measuring)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (to give gentle lift)
- 1/3 teaspoon baking soda (for balance with the dairy)
- 1/3 teaspoon salt (to sharpen the sweetness)
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened to room temperature for creaming)
- 1 1/6 cups granulated sugar (for structure and sweetness)
- 1 large egg (brought to room temperature for smooth mixing)
- 2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for warm bakery flavor)
- 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream (room temperature for tenderness)
- 6 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar (measured before sifting for accuracy)
- 8 tablespoons whole milk (divided to control icing thickness)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons light corn syrup (for shine and smooth texture)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla extract (to flavor the vanilla icing)
- 3/4 teaspoon salt (to keep the icing from tasting flat)
- 3 1/2 tablespoons cocoa powder (for the chocolate half of the icing)
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats.
- Stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.
- Beat the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy, then blend in the egg and vanilla until smooth, scraping the bowl as needed.
- Lower the mixer speed and add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the sour cream, mixing just until a very thick batter forms with no dry pockets.
- Scoop the batter using a greased 1/4-cup measure, spacing mounds well apart on the pans, and bake until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies rest on the pans briefly, then move them to a rack and cool completely before decorating.
- Whisk the confectioners’ sugar, most of the milk, corn syrup, vanilla, and salt into a smooth icing, then move about one cup to another bowl and blend in the remaining milk and cocoa.
- Spread the vanilla icing over half of each cookie’s flat side and chill briefly so it firms up without running.
- Cover the other half with chocolate icing and let the cookies sit until the tops are fully set before serving.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Experiment with different icing flavors if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
