Cristina,
I can't believe no one responded to your question until now...me. There's never a lack of vanilla extract in my house since I bake so much. When I'm running low on it, I'll get more just to be safe. But you do need vanilla extract for great flavor in cookies and in many desserts. And of course, it depends on which cookies you're making. Some require almond extract or other flavors.
I'm sure that by now you've gone to the store to buy your vanilla extract. Good luck.
Dina