49 Christmas Cookie Ideas That Bring Cheer Before Anyone Even Takes a Bite

There’s a certain comfort in knowing you’ve got 49 Christmas cookie ideas ready to explore when the season starts to fill up. I like having a range like this because it lets me choose something that matches whatever mood I’m in. Each idea stands on its own without pushing you into long prep or complicated steps.

Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

There’s something comforting about the flavor combination of chocolate and mint, especially during the holidays. These Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies bring all the winter vibes to your dessert spread without being over-the-top rich. These cookies don’t just look festive; they carry that unmistakable holiday spirit that gets people talking around the table.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Few cookies capture the essence of Christmas quite like these Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies. They’re warm, aromatic, and just the right kind of nostalgic; perfect for anyone who loves simple moments that feel special during the holidays. From snowy mornings to cozy nights by the fireplace, these cookies fit into every festive scene effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Okay, let’s get real; holiday cooking can be a lot to handle, so a recipe like Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars feels like a lifesaver. They’re all the best parts of cookies, with just a touch of brownie-like decadence. Bring them to a holiday potluck or pack them up for movie night, and watch how fast people finish them off.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

If you’re the kind of person who waits all year for pumpkin season, these Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies are going to be your new favorite winter dessert. The balance of pumpkin and caramel makes them feel rich and over-the-top in the best way. Holiday baking always feels a little cozier with pumpkin treats, and these cookies bring that vibe to life.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Festive, colorful, and undeniably fun, these Swirled Marshmallow Cookies look like they could’ve been pulled straight from Santa’s workshop. If you need something that stands out from typical Christmas desserts, these swirly gems are as memorable as it gets. Don’t be surprised if they become the talk of your friends and family!
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Classic recipes are often the ones we keep coming back to, and these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are no exception. These cookies bring warm, familiar flavors to cold winter days, making them perfect for everything from afternoon tea to festive gatherings. Whether tucked into treat bags or plated for dessert, these cookies just feel like a hug in cookie form.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Adorable Snowman Cookies

Imagine cookies that practically sparkle with holiday cheer before you even take a bite. These Adorable Snowman Cookies are exactly that! They’re almost too cute to eat, but trust me, once the smiles fade into bites, people won’t stop raving about how fun they are. These cookies are practically guaranteed to make your dessert table the most memorable one.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies

Twisty, cheerful, and unmistakably Christmas, these Candy Cane Cookies are the kind of dessert that adds personality to any holiday event. They’re fun to look at and even better to eat, so don’t be surprised if people ask you for the recipe the moment they try one. These cookies truly bring the holiday magic to life!
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Even the Grinch himself wouldn’t be able to resist these Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies. Their bright pop of green and snowy powdered sugar coating make them stand out in the best way possible. These cookies are perfect for anyone who loves to add a little humor and charm to the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Who says s’mores are reserved for summer nights? These S’mores Stuffed Cookies bring the gooey, chocolatey goodness of campfire treats right to your holiday table. These cookies aren’t just dessert; they’re an experience that feels cozy and indulgent in every bite. If you’ve got some cookie lovers who enjoy surprises, these stuffed gems will steal the show.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

If you’re looking for cookies that feel like a full-on centerpiece, look no further than Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies. These beauties aren’t just dessert; they’re a holiday showstopper. With their layered design and bright festive colors, they’ll instantly grab attention at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Cannoli Cookies

Take everything you love about creamy, indulgent cannolis and turn it into a holiday-perfect cookie; that’s exactly what makes these Cannoli Cookies so memorable. These treats bring a little Italian-inspired charm to your dessert spread. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or set them out for a holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cookies

Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

These Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies are the break from tradition you didn’t know you needed this holiday season. While most desserts lean heavily and richly, these cookies bring a bright, refreshing twist to the usual lineup. If you’re gifting cookie boxes this year, these are sure to surprise (and impress) anyone lucky enough to receive them!
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Sometimes simple flavors steal the spotlight, and these Sweet Salted Honey Cookies do it with ease. These cookies are the definition of understated elegance, making them perfect for someone who prefers desserts with just a hint of decadence. These cookies don’t scream holiday, but their timeless charm fits perfectly into the season.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies bring together two favorites in a way that feels like pure holiday magic. There’s something about pumpkin treats that just fits the season, and when you throw in chocolate, these cookies turn into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece. Set them out after dinner or enjoy them during a quiet afternoon; you can’t go wrong.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Think of your favorite holiday ornaments, but in cookie form; that’s exactly what these Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies deliver. They’re cute, creative, and impossible not to smile at the moment you see them on the table. These are the sorts of cookies that people remember even years later!
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

These Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos are proof that holiday cookies don’t have to be traditional to make an impact. Their charming design makes them stand out amongst the usual seasonal spread. These cookies are great for adding personality to a holiday treat bag or taking along to a party where you want to share something unique.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Soft Lemon Cookies

During a season filled with rich desserts, these Soft Lemon Cookies bring a breath of fresh air. These cookies are light, delicate, and great for anyone who prefers their treats with a touch of brightness. They’re perfect for adding a little variety to your holiday lineup!
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies

Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Cozy up this holiday season with these Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies; the perfect treat to serve alongside an actual cup of hot chocolate. These cookies are the essence of warmth, making you feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket on a snowy evening. They’re rich without being overwhelming and will have everyone feeling that unmistakable winter comfort when served.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

If you’re dreaming of cookies that double as holiday decorations, these Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies check all the boxes. Their bright, cheerful design will light up your dessert table, and they’re perfect for anyone who likes themed holiday treats. These cookies bring an instant dose of seasonal spirit.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

These Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging aren’t just dessert; they’re decorative! These cookies are the ultimate way to combine creativity and holiday spirit. They’re the kind of cookie that gets people oohing and ahhing the moment they see them. Perfect for gifting or just adding something extra to the holidays!
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Few things say “Christmas” quite like a batch of these Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies. With their gorgeous designs and bright colors, these cookies are as much a part of holiday traditions as putting up lights or wrapping presents. Plus, the fun designs make them perfect for adding a little personality to your holiday spread!
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Cowboy Cookies

If you want a holiday treat that feels hearty and packed with flavor, these Cowboy Cookies are the ultimate choice. They’re the kind of cookie that fits right into the season, just like warm sweaters and cozy evenings. These cookies feel familiar and comforting, which is exactly what makes them so special during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cookies

Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Classic, buttery, and endlessly versatile, these Buttery Shortbread Cookies are the cookies you’ll reach for when you want something simple yet enjoyable. There’s a timeless charm to them; they may not be showy, but they’re always a hit during the holidays. Their crumbly, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes you feel like you’re indulging in a little piece of tradition.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Some holiday recipes surprise you by being approachable while still feeling festive, and these Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter are exactly that. These cookies manage to keep the soft, nostalgic charm of classic sugar cookies while offering a lighter alternative. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges or adding variety to a holiday dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Holidays are a time for sharing, and these Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies let everyone in on the fun, even those with dietary preferences. They’re chewy, flavorful, and perfect for anyone who loves a dessert with richness but not too heavy. Bring them along to a party or add them to a holiday platter, and you’ll be surprised how many people flock to try them.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Fun and playful, these Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops are guaranteed to make people smile at first glance. Perfect for kids or anyone who loves a good themed treat, these cookies are as fun to look at as they are to eat. Pop them into holiday goodie bags or display them on your dessert table; they add a dose of whimsy to any cookie spread.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Warm, cozy, and full of holiday flavor, these Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies make sure everyone can enjoy a seasonal classic. The spices bring all the comfort and nostalgia you expect from gingerbread, while the vegan twist makes them even more versatile for sharing. They’re perfect for cookie swaps, gift baskets, or enjoying alongside a cup of tea.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

These Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies are nothing short of show-stopping when it comes to holiday desserts. With their bold design and festive charm, they’re the perfect treat for kids or anyone who loves a playful touch at Christmas. These cookies have just the right amount of sweetness to satisfy cravings without being overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If carrot cake is your thing, then these Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting are about to become your holiday obsession. These cookies feel like a beautifully portable version of the classic dessert, all dressed up for the season. Their frosting brings a touch of indulgence that feels right at home during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

What’s not to love about the rustic look of these Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies? These cookies are the kind that practically scream “holidays” with their snowy powdered sugar topping and rich chocolate flavor. They’re perfect for setting out on a platter during a party or packing into treat boxes for loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

These Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies prove that holiday classics can be loved by everyone, no matter their dietary preferences. Perfect for decorating, gifting, or just enjoying with a cup of cocoa, these cookies offer a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that feels timeless. Nobody will even guess they’re vegan; they’re just that delicious!
Get the Recipe: Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

When the holiday hustle gets too hectic, these No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies come to the rescue. There’s no need to turn on the oven to whip up a batch of these easy yet elegant treats, making them a favorite for last-minute gatherings or when you’re pressed for time. The maple and pecan pairing gives a warm, festive vibe that feels perfectly seasonal.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Nothing welcomes the cooler days quite like these Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans. They’re the kind of treat that feels like a warm sweater for your palate; soft, full of fall flavor, and perfectly indulgent for the holiday season. They’ll remind you of all the cozy, comforting things you love about this time of year.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies

For a dessert with a little flair, these Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies take center stage. These cookies look like they’ve been rolled fresh from Santa’s workshop with their mesmerizing layers that offer both taste and texture. Whether for a family gathering or a festive gift, they’ll be a guaranteed hit.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies

Soft Marry Me Cookies

Some cookies are so good, they leave a lasting impression, and Soft Marry Me Cookies are exactly that. With their dreamy texture and a sweet flavor that’s just the right amount of indulgent, these cookies have a way of stealing the show. They feel right at home as a thoughtful homemade gift or as part of your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

These Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies practically redefine indulgence. They’re like the best parts of holiday desserts rolled into one, from the gorgeous red hue to the perfectly balanced sweetness. Red velvet fans, get ready; this is officially the holiday cookie you’ve been dreaming of.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Thumb Print Cookie

These Thumb Print Cookies are the kind of dessert that seems to bring back childhood memories for everyone. With their charming dollop of sweetness right in the center, they’re as fun to look at as they are to eat. Whether they’re filled with jam, frosting, or something else entirely, these cookies will easily hold their place as a holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie

Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Add an extra dose of warmth and love to your holiday baking list with these Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies. While hearts aren’t your typical Christmas theme, these cookies bring joy to anyone who sees them, reminding us what the season is all about. After all, who could resist a cookie shaped like a little piece of love?
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Whether you’re baking for those with dietary needs or you’re just out of eggs, these Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies prove you don’t need to sacrifice flavor or texture. These cookies are perfect for any holiday gathering where you want a timeless favorite. These are so delicious that no one will ever guess they’re egg-free.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Need a cookie that’s equally fun to look at and eat? These Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies might just steal the spotlight this holiday season. Their crisp, delicate layers make them a sophisticated choice for any dessert spread. They’ll make every moment just a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

These Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies are proof that cinnamon has its own magic during the holidays. These cookies bring the cozy, familiar flavor of warm cinnamon rolls right to your dessert plate, but in cookie form. They’re indulgent without feeling too heavy, making them a perfect sweet ending to big holiday feasts.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Sometimes, all you want is the comfort of a warm chocolate chip cookie, and these Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies deliver that in spades. These are the kind of cookies you crave on a chilly December night, paired with a glass of milk or a cup of cocoa. Perfect for gifting or as a treat for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Indulgent, rich, and sinfully delicious, these Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies are everything chocolate lovers dream of during the holidays. With their deep, chocolatey flavor and soft, cake-like texture, these cookies feel like biting into pure decadence. The Crumbl-inspired recipe ensures they’re just as lavish and satisfying as the bakery originals.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Few cookies are as comforting as these Soft Peanut Butter Cookies, especially during the holidays. Warm, nutty, and melt-in-your-mouth soft, these treats are perfect for cozy evenings with a glass of milk or hot cocoa. Great for gifting or enjoying with loved ones, these cookies bring nostalgia and holiday joy in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Sometimes chocolate needs a little company, and these Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies deliver that and more. With their soft, fudgy texture and bursts of melted chocolate chips, these cookies are a chocolate lover’s paradise. They’re perfect for serving after dinner with coffee or packing in festive cookie boxes for friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Butter Pecan Cookies

Buttery, nutty, and undeniably classic, these Butter Pecan Cookies bring a touch of Southern charm to your holiday baking list. The crunch of pecans combined with the rich, buttery base makes these cookies feel elegant yet comforting. Pair them with tea for a mellow holiday treat, or enjoy them by the fireplace; they’re fun in every way!
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies

Take everyone’s favorite childhood sandwich and turn it into a gourmet dessert with these Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies. These cookies combine a tender peanut butter base with a sweet dollop of jelly in the center, creating the perfect balance of flavors. Great for gifting or serving as a showstopper on your dessert table!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies

Festive Candy Cane Oreos

When holiday flavors meet everyone’s favorite classic cookie, you get these Festive Candy Cane Oreos. These treats are perfect for adding a fun and minty twist to your holiday spread. Crushed candy canes combined with chocolate-dipped Oreos make these cookies look and taste like Christmas cheer on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos