Forgotten Cookies Recipe – A Classic Treat with a Magical Twist
Forgotten Cookies are one of those nostalgic desserts that feel like a little piece of magic in every bite. These light and chewy cookies are whipped together with just a few simple ingredients, baked overnight, and ready to enjoy by morning. The name comes from the unique baking method—you simply “forget” them in the oven and let the residual heat do the work. With crisp edges, soft centers, and bursts of chocolate and pecan, Forgotten Cookies are a timeless crowd-pleaser.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
To make these whimsical Forgotten Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 egg whites
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they’re foamy—this takes about 3 minutes with an electric mixer.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until stiff, glossy peaks form.
- Gently fold in the pinch of kosher salt, vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto an ungreased baking sheet using a small spoon. The shapes don’t need to be perfect.
- Turn off the oven, place the cookie sheet inside, and leave it overnight—no peeking!
- In the morning, your cookies will be ready: perfectly crisp on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside.
Benefits of This Craft
While this may be a baking recipe, making Forgotten Cookies is an experience that doubles as a creative culinary craft. Here’s why:
- Minimal Effort: The process is incredibly simple—no sifting, kneading, or complicated steps.
- No Supervision Needed: Once the cookies are in the oven, you literally forget about them.
- Perfect for Beginners: This recipe is ideal for novice bakers who want foolproof results.
- Great for Gifting: Pack these cookies in decorative bags or boxes for homemade holiday or hostess gifts.
- Fun for Kids: Children love the magical “surprise” element of finding the cookies ready the next morning.
Tips
For the best results, keep the following tips in mind:
- Use a clean, dry bowl when whipping egg whites. Any trace of oil or yolk can prevent them from stiffening.
- Beat the egg whites properly until stiff peaks form—this creates the structure that makes these cookies work.
- Be gentle when folding in the nuts and chocolate chips to avoid deflating the mixture.
- Avoid opening the oven overnight. The residual heat is what bakes the cookies gradually.
- Experiment with mix-ins such as white chocolate, dried cranberries, or almonds for your own twist.
What Do They Taste Like?
Forgotten Cookies have a delightful texture and flavor that’s hard to beat. The outside is light and crisp, while the inside remains soft and slightly chewy, almost like a meringue-meets-chocolate-chip-cookie hybrid. The sweetness is balanced by the richness of chocolate and the buttery crunch of pecans. They melt in your mouth with each bite, making them dangerously addictive. These cookies are perfect for dessert platters, afternoon tea, or midnight snacks.
How to Store
Forgotten Cookies can be stored easily and maintain their flavor and texture well when handled properly:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking them to prevent sticking.
- Avoid refrigeration as it can introduce moisture and cause the cookies to lose their crisp texture.
- Freeze for longer storage: Place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Forgotten Cookies are the kind of treat that reminds you of simpler times—when baking was as much about joy as it was about flavor. These overnight cookies are incredibly easy to make and deliver a delicious blend of textures and tastes. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, sharing with loved ones, or just craving a unique dessert, Forgotten Cookies are a wonderful choice.
With only a few ingredients and a touch of patience, you’ll wake up to cookies that feel like they came straight from a dream. Give this classic recipe a try and bring a bit of old-fashioned charm to your modern kitchen.
Looking for More DAILY RECIPE ideas to brighten your lunches and everyday meals? Visit this link and discover new favorites to add to your cooking routine.
FAQ
Can I make Forgotten Cookies without nuts?
Yes. Simply leave out the pecans or substitute them with seeds or another mix-in like crushed pretzels or dried fruit.
Do I have to leave them in the oven overnight?
It’s best to leave them overnight (or for at least 8 hours) to allow them to bake slowly and completely. Shortening the time may affect texture.
What if I forget to preheat the oven?
Preheating is crucial for the initial heat needed. If skipped, the cookies won’t set properly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but be sure not to overcrowd your baking sheet. Use multiple trays if needed.
Why didn’t my cookies crisp up?
Possible reasons include under-beaten egg whites, excess moisture in the oven, or removing them too early. Always ensure stiff peaks form and avoid opening the oven prematurely.

Forgotten Cookies Recipe – A Classic Treat with a Magical Twist
- Total Time: Overnight
- Yield: 24 cookies
Description
Whimsical Forgotten Cookies that bake overnight—crisp outside, chewy inside, and no peeking required!
Ingredients
To make these whimsical Forgotten Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients: – 2 egg whites – 2/3 cup granulated sugar – Pinch of kosher salt – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – 1 cup pecans, chopped – 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). 2. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they’re foamy—this takes about 3 minutes with an electric mixer. 3. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until stiff, glossy peaks form. 4. Gently fold in the pinch of kosher salt, vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips. 5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto an ungreased baking sheet using a small spoon. The shapes don’t need to be perfect. 6. Turn off the oven, place the cookie sheet inside, and leave it overnight—no peeking! 7. In the morning, your cookies will be ready: perfectly crisp on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside.
Notes
Do not open the oven while the cookies are setting overnight. Use parchment paper for easier cleanup if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins (oven stays warm)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake / Oven Rest
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg