49 Christmas Cookie Recipe Ideas Perfect for Low-Stress Baking

Holiday baking plans just got a whole lot easier with 49 Christmas cookie recipes that keep fuss to a minimum. There’s something thoughtful about pulling together a batch, even when your to-do list is lengthy. Sometimes, low effort is exactly what gets treats on the table. You can still bake from scratch without signing up for an all-day project.

Adorable Snowman Cookies

With their cheerful looks, these Adorable Snowman Cookies bring an instant smile to any dessert table. People always ask how something so cute can taste this good. Biting into one brings back cozy moments and laughter. No wonder they’re gone so fast at every holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies

The swirl of festive colors on these Candy Cane Cookies creates pure holiday magic. Every bite holds a hint of nostalgia, sparking memories of classic winter celebrations. They’re perfect for sharing, but somehow never last very long. I make extra just in case, since these disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Warm spices fill the kitchen the moment I bake these Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies. The first taste always brings a gentle hug of comfort. There’s something irresistible about their color and tenderness. Holiday cookie plates always look better when these are around.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Deep chocolate and marshmallow make these S’mores Stuffed Cookies unforgettable. They’re perfect for anyone who secretly wishes for warm-weather nights around a fire during December. Each one hides a sweet surprise inside. Be ready for everyone to ask how you made these so special!
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Baking a batch of Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies fills the kitchen with a familiar, refreshing aroma. They offer a cool surprise that chocolate fans never expect during the holidays. Craving something simple yet surprising? You can’t go wrong reaching for one of these.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

The balance of gentle honey and a hint of salt makes these Sweet Salted Honey Cookies stand out. People always comment on the unusual flavor that keeps them coming back for more. They’re perfect to nibble with a mug of cocoa. I never leave the cookie tray without a few of these.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Even grown-ups can’t help but smile when they spot these Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos. Their bright and whimsical design brings energy to any cookie exchange. Kids and adults alike reach for them first. They vanish before you know it, so I try to save one for myself.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Sweet aromas fill the home when I make these Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies for a breezy day gathering. The bite of pumpkin and hint of caramel draw compliments every time. There’s warmth in every batch, adding charm to chilly evenings. It’s no wonder people always want seconds.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Shaped with care, these Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a loving gesture. Holiday trays feel extra special with these on display. Every hint of sweetness feels like a simple moment of kindness. Whether for friends or parties, the compliments never stop.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Walking into a kitchen with Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie baking brings up old-fashioned happiness. No one seems to resist the chewy centers and chocolate bits scattered throughout. The recipe always gets passed around, sparking new traditions. Some sweets just feel like home, every time.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Soft Marry Me Cookies

Romance might not be required, but these Soft Marry Me Cookies tempt anyone who tries them. Conversation turns to recipe requests after just one taste. It becomes the cookie everyone talks about long after the holidays. Don’t be surprised if people return for just one more.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies

Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Kids pause in wonder before picking up these Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops. With fun decorations and bold pops of color, they’re always a centerpiece. Taking a bite feels playful and celebratory. I love watching the tray empty as laughter fills the room.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Bringing cheer with every glance, these Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes never fail to get noticed. Holiday tables come alive with their charming designs. There’s always a rush to grab one before they’re gone. I’ve seen eyes widen in surprise at how cute and flavorful they are.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Combining iconic colors with a playful twist, these Festive Candy Cane Oreos light up any party spread. Their crunchy layers offer a lively crunch in every bite. It’s impossible not to take a second look. Cookie lovers are sure to reach back for more.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Cutting back on butter doesn’t mean cutting back on fun with these Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter. Everyone wonders if they’re missing something, but the answer is always no. There’s a gentle sweetness that holds up well with colorful decorations. They get requested time after time.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

The unbeatable pairing of peanut butter and jelly takes center stage in these Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie. Friends are surprised to discover both flavors shining through with every bite. It’s a unique twist on a favorite snack. This recipe always starts interesting conversations.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Bright green and crinkly, these Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies capture every holiday fan’s attention. Laughter always follows when people see them for the first time. You might hear playful debates about who gets the last one. They simply bring a dose of holiday cheer to any table.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Classic, powdered, and filled with cocoa, Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies never go out of style. As soon as they’re stacked on a plate, someone reaches for them. Their texture and deep flavor always stand out. I’ve found it’s wise to keep an extra batch hidden for later.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies

Breezy day flavors warm the heart in Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies. Every bite carries just the right touch of spice for cool weather. They’re the kind of cookie that turns a simple evening into a quiet celebration. People often want the recipe as soon as they’re tasted.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Cookie decorating becomes extra cheerful with Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies front and center. Kids get excited to help shape and decorate these treats. Ribbons of color bring the holidays to life in every batch. I always look forward to seeing everyone’s creative designs.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Baking Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans fills the whole place with gentle, inviting scents. Each bite brings a little comfort to chilly afternoons. They’re an easy favorite for adults and kids alike. Sharing these always feels like wrapping up the season in one warm treat.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Fans of tea enjoy the gentle notes in Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies. Every nibble blends soft lemon with a subtle hint of something truly unique. They’re excellent for relaxing with a cozy drink. After just one, people keep reaching for another.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter lovers gather fast wherever Soft Peanut Butter Cookies appear. There’s a familiar, comforting quality that brings everyone together. These always vanish before any other dessert, no matter the event. I’ve stopped counting how many times I’ve shared this one.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Turning cookies into edible decorations is so much fun with these Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies. They sparkle with holiday spirit and creative patterns. Every party tray gets a little brighter when these arrive. Friends usually end up talking about the designs first.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Soft Lemon Cookies

Whenever I’m in the mood for something bright, Soft Lemon Cookies are my top pick. The sweet tang wakes up your palate in the best way. Light and fluffy, they bring a simple joy to dreary winter days. Most people are surprised by how fast these leave the plate.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Not every holiday treat needs time in the oven, as No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies prove. With a sweet earthiness and a soft crunch, they’re always a welcome surprise. They’re perfect to whip up when the kitchen’s already busy. It’s easy to see why they’re gone in a flash.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Bringing dessert to the next level, Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies are rich and utterly memorable. Some say they’re almost too good to share, but that never lasts long. They’re perfect for chocolate fiends in the crowd. I always make sure a few extras are on hand for midnight snacks.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Celebrating the winter season can be delicious and worry-free with Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies. Their nutty, chewy centers appeal to all kinds of cookie fans. They’re always the first vegan treat to vanish from any spread. Even non-vegans go back for seconds after one bite.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Swirling with spicy warmth, Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies steal the spotlight at gatherings. The blend of sweet and spice is hard to resist, even for the more reserved guests. Everyone wants to know what makes the flavor so special. Expect quick disappearances as the plate empties.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Few things beat sinking your teeth into Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies right out of the oven. The warmth and gooey chocolate always turn regular days into mini celebrations. Kids argue over who gets the last bite. I sometimes save a couple for later, just in case.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Vegan never needs to mean boring, as Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies easily prove. They’re easygoing, sweet, and always fit every celebration’s mood. Guests are surprised to learn they’re plant-based. These cookies offer an inclusive treat everyone can enjoy together.
Get the Recipe: Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Nothing feels as classic or inviting as Buttery Shortbread Cookies during the holidays. Their rich, crumbly texture is a welcome break from sweeter choices. Each bite brings a gentle crispness that’s just right with coffee or cocoa. I bring these out anytime I want something timeless.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Even without eggs, Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies offer all the warmth and flavor you expect. The chewy centers and standout chocolate keep people guessing how they’re made. They’re great for all sorts of gatherings, especially if someone needs an egg-free option. Tastes just as good as any classic.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Pulling out the icing and sprinkles means it’s time for Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies. Each cookie becomes a piece of edible holiday art. Friends compete to make the best designs, but everyone enjoys every crumb. I love that each batch looks different every year.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Every bite of Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies is loaded with holiday cheer. Their whimsical appearance catches everyone’s eye right away at holiday parties. There’s laughter and playful teasing as people choose their favorite. Sharing these brings out that child-like joy we all need sometimes.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Two kinds of chocolate make Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies hard to resist for anyone who loves bold flavors. The moment they’re unpacked, people reach for them again and again. They’re perfect with a glass of milk or your favorite hot drink. I’ve noticed they make a great conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Turning cookies into decorations is never more fun than with Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging. Kids enjoy creating their own ornaments for the tree. At the end of the night, everyone gets to eat their masterpiece. No other cookie leaves memories quite like these.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Easy Whoopie Pie

Sometimes, you need a treat that’s as simple as it is delicious, and Easy Whoopie Pie fits the bill. Soft and fluffy, they come together fast and win over even busy hosts. They bring nostalgic charm to cookie trays without any fuss. People often ask about the secret behind the easy texture.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie

Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Vegan-friendly treats don’t have to be boring, as these Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies clearly show. Their deep aroma and tangy bite spice up even the coldest days. They’re a hit among plant-based eaters, yet everyone joins in. There’s always talk about how good they are.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Creating a cookie tower becomes the highlight of the season with Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies. Layer after layer, they’re both fun to build and even more fun to eat. Guests admire how impressive they look displayed on the table. Children want to “help,” just for a taste.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Tart cherries swirling in chocolate make Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies unforgettable for lovers of bold flavors. The contrast in every bite brings a depth that’s anything but ordinary. They’re impossible to ignore on a dessert tray. I always run out when these are around.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Soft Strawberry Cookies

Fresh strawberry aromas often signal the start of baking Soft Strawberry Cookies. These treats offer a soft, pastel burst of flavor, sweet without being overwhelming. They tend to disappear the fastest during gatherings. Simple joy is baked into every pink, fluffy handful.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry Cookies

Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Bright colors and playful eyes make Fun Cookie Monster Cookies a whimsical addition to any holiday platter. Kids burst into laughter the moment these arrive. They’re conversation starters every single time. The expressions on everyone’s faces are half the fun.
Get the Recipe: Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Warming spices mingle beautifully in Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Their gentle color and sweet finish draw in curious cookie fans. Each bite brings up memories of classic layer cake, just in bite-sized form. Guests usually reach for seconds when these are offered.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Cold winter nights beg for Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies with their dark chocolatey goodness. Every nibble delivers a little comfort to the busiest evenings. They capture the best of the season in cookie form. I’ve never seen leftovers when these are involved.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Layers of crispness in Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies create an unexpected bite. Their caramel notes blend perfectly, making these a unique addition to any celebration. Cookie swaps often feature requests for the recipe. After one try, people always look for them next year.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Butter Pecan Cookies

Roasted pecans and a buttery base combine in Butter Pecan Cookies for a rich winter treat. Toasty aromas fill the kitchen, tempting anyone nearby. They’re a cozy addition to dessert tables and coffee breaks alike. Gathering with loved ones feels sweeter with these within reach.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies

Thumb Print Cookie

Vibrant centers catch your eye as soon as you see a Thumb Print Cookie on the platter. They’re a sweet way to add color and flavor to a classic spread. Children often race to choose their favorite jam color. I enjoy making these for their playful look and tender texture.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie

Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Combining swirls and fluffy marshmallow brings magic to every Swirled Marshmallow Cookies batch. The colorful patterns attract kids and adults with equal delight. These cookies simply disappear during parties. Every plate looks brighter with them front and center.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies