51 Christmas Cookie Recipe Ideas That Make Even Cold Days Feel Warm
Every cookie has a story behind it, and with 51 Christmas cookie recipe ideas, you can start new traditions or revive old favorites. There’s a recipe to match any taste, mood, or skill level, making it easy to share a little joy all season long. Even the coldest days feel cozy with a fresh cookie and a cup of something warm.

Adorable Snowman Cookies

Holiday snack platters instantly brighten up with this Adorable Snowman Cookies recipe in the lineup. Kids and adults are always ready to grab these cute faces for dessert or a snack. I set out a tray and watch every cookie vanish before the music even starts. Snowman cookies help transform gatherings into cheerful winter fun.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies
Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Peppermint flavor with every soft bite brings out cozy winter vibes thanks to this Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies treat. The cool taste works perfectly with hot cocoa while guests chat about favorite holiday moments. I’ve found these cookies create plenty of buzz at cookie swaps. Mint-chocolate snacks bring pure joy to cold evenings.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies
Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Whimsical swirls pile high on dessert tables as soon as you serve this Swirled Marshmallow Cookies batch. Each soft cookie melts quickly, making people reach for another almost every time. I love baking these for parties since the colors brighten every plate. Marshmallow cookies make winter snacking extra playful for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies
Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Aromas of ginger and spice fill the air, turning any home into a holiday hotspot with this Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies recipe. People ask for seconds just to enjoy those classic winter flavors again. I use these cookies as gifts since they travel well. Gingerbread keeps holiday traditions alive with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies
Butter Pecan Cookies

Nut lovers always pause when crunchy bits catch their eyes on a dessert platter topped with the Butter Pecan Cookies recipe. The buttery richness pairs so well with steaming drinks on chilly nights. I make a double batch to cover last-minute snackers. Pecan cookies add a touch of warmth to any holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies
Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Bright icing transforms dessert into decoration using this Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies idea. Decorative sprinkles sparkle on each piece, getting plenty of comments from party guests. I bring these out to win prize ribbons at office potlucks. Cookie ornaments turn any table into a scene straight from a winter story.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies
No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

No oven means quick celebration for guests with this No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies recipe. The nutty aroma fills the room, and kids can help assemble these treats in no time. I keep extras for car rides and Christmas light tours. Maple and pecan mix up the usual snacks for a memorable winter dessert.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies
Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Egg-free desserts make everyone welcome at Christmas with this Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies option. Soft cookies still offer that gooey chocolate everyone dreams about, even if you follow special diets. I always save a few in the freezer for friends with allergies. Chocolate chip cookies never stop being a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies
Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Warm notes of peanut butter make these Soft Peanut Butter Cookies the king of the cookie platter at winter potlucks. Friends return for more after the first taste since the soft texture tempts them. I prefer to make smaller cookies so sharing is easy. Peanut butter brings classic comfort to any snow day.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies
Easy Whoopie Pie

Snack time becomes much more memorable after you bring around this Easy Whoopie Pie treat. Soft cakes with creamy filling give you the best of both worlds, no fork needed. I put these in lunchboxes or on party trays to see smiles all around. Whoopie pies are the ultimate grab-and-go dessert for busy holiday nights.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie
Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Thick, rich, and deeply chocolatey, this Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies recipe turns dessert into the main event. Big cookies with bold flavor always start a bit of a friendly competition for the last one. I bring these to gift swaps and never leave with leftovers. Chocolate cake cookies get serious attention fast.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies
Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Bold tea notes and a burst of citrus make this Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies recipe a grown-up favorite. Biscuit tins filled with these always start conversations when guests visit during the holidays. I tuck a few into gift bags for a unique surprise. Notes of lemon and tea add sophistication to Christmas snacking.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies
Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Even those looking for something lighter get nice surprises with this Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter recipe. Slightly sweet, soft cookies keep hands and hearts warm at every seasonal event. I serve these at bake sales to suit more tastes. Butter-free cookies never feel left out during winter snacking with friends.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter
Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Lunch comes to dessert by turning tradition into treats using this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie recipe. Sweet jam meets rich cookie for something everyone wants to try. I find these a conversation starter at classroom parties. Nostalgic flavors pop up in new ways for holiday gatherings that feel special.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie
Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Nutty, soft, and bursting with gentle spice, this Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans batch welcomes the season with every bite. The combination of crunch and soft crumb makes them perfect for sharing. I add these to dessert trays for texture variety. Pumpkin and pecans together create a cozy finish for any wintry occasion.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans
Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Colorful strings bring smiles to every face with this Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging idea. Cookie branches decorated for the tree add a playful touch to the holiday setup. I recommend baking extra since they double as both décor and dessert. Hanging cookies become instant winter traditions in any home.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging
Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Red velvet and creamy chips collide for a classic, bold cookie lineup using this Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies recipe. Guests never expect such an impressive bakery style right at home. I pass out batches for party prizes and smiles. Red velvet always feels just right for the holidays and looks great in photos.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies
Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Fresh cookies out of the oven bring a sense of home to every holiday night thanks to this Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe. The familiar melty chips encourage people to grab seconds. I never see leftovers when these make an appearance. Classic chocolate chip cookies are just what holiday comfort food should be.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Bright blue cookies light up any winter buffet as soon as you whip up this Fun Cookie Monster Cookies batch. Big eyes and chocolate bits get all the giggles from kids, and even adults. I pack these up for school parties because everyone learns to love Cookie Monster. Edible characters can turn the simplest dessert into a hit.
Get the Recipe: Fun Cookie Monster Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Cinnamony spirals tempt every guest’s nose as soon as you set out this Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies recipe. Swirls of icing and spice keep spirits high at gatherings. I love slipping some into gift boxes for friends who like a twist on classic flavors. Cinnamon swirl cookies always add warmth to winter festivities.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies
Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Soft cookies that suit every diet keep crowds happy, especially at busy parties, thanks to this Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies recipe. No one feels left out when there’s a sweet treat made for all. I suggest these for inclusive gatherings or potlucks. Vegan sugar cookies always vanish before anyone asks about special ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies
Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Bright eyes and red noses bring a sense of fun to dessert tables with this Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes treat. Children reach for them immediately, while adults can’t help but smile. I bake extra cupcakes for decorating parties because these quickly become favorites. Christmas cheer spreads faster with sweet Rudolph waiting for you.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes
Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

A blast of golden honey and a sprinkle of salt make this Sweet Salted Honey Cookies recipe extra memorable. Uncommon among holiday trays, these cookies always earn compliments from adventurous snackers. I put out a plate alongside milk or cocoa for chilly nights. Honey cookies provide unexpected comfort after winter dinners.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies
Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies

Gentle pumpkin flavor rolls into every bite using this Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies approach. Sweet filling matched with subtle spice keeps snackers interested until the last crumb is gone. I slice these into rounds for dessert tables or midnight snacks. Pumpkin rolls bring warmth and tradition to holiday bakeathons.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies
Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Hearts find a special place on December trays thanks to this Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies recipe. Cutout cookies spark warm feelings even before anyone takes a bite. I use these for cookie exchanges and see them traded every time. Heart shapes look perfect among candy canes and Christmas ornaments, making things extra merry.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies
Soft Lemon Cookies

Fresh lemon makes every bite light and sunny with this Soft Lemon Cookies treat on the table. Tangy flavors refresh palates between rich chocolatey desserts at the holidays. I set out a dish to bring color and brightness to wintry snack bars. Lemon cookies become a cheerful surprise for every guest who drops by.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies
S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Gooey chocolate bites and marshmallow centers bring fireside vibes indoors with this S’mores Stuffed Cookies recipe. Warm cookies mix fun and nostalgia for snowy weekends. I stack them up for movie marathons in December. S’mores cookies deliver campfire memories even as the Christmas lights twinkle outside.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies
Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pumpkin sweetness and rich chocolate chips blend perfectly in this Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies batch. Guests always seem drawn to these after dinner because of their gentle, cozy feel. I bring these to office parties since everyone grabs extras for later. Pumpkin and chocolate help set the mood for holiday sharing.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Vegan treats become the talk of the party with this Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies recipe. Almond notes are front and center without excluding anyone from the snack table. I use these for layered dessert platters filled with every diet style. Cookie jars always look better filled with chewy vegan options for winter.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Big flakes and gooey chocolate combine perfectly inside this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie. People tend to return for seconds since these classics have serious staying power. I stash a batch for quick holiday breakfasts or midnight snack runs. Oatmeal cookies keep people reaching for more, all through the winter months.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie
Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Hot cocoa in cookie form lands firmly in winter tradition territory thanks to this Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies treat. Frosted tops look like mini mugs ready for dunking. I always make plenty for Christmas Eve movie watching. Hot cocoa cookies upgrade chilly nights and help kick off holiday season celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies
Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Vegan baking can taste just as classic during the holidays, especially with this Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies recipe. Warm spices help create memories, with everyone reaching for seconds after the first crunch. I recommend these for diverse holiday crowds. Plant-based gingerbread means everyone can join the fun.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies
Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Powdered sugar stripes and deep cracks make this Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies recipe a dessert table star. Soft centers pack a fudgy punch guests won’t forget. I wrap these for doorstep gifts each December. Crinkle cookies look just right against pine garlands and snowy windows.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Soft Strawberry Cookies

Strawberry flavor brightens up wintry snack plates with help from this Soft Strawberry Cookies recipe. Pink makes a playful show among traditional red and green treats. I pack these into cookie boxes to add variety each season. Strawberry gives a fun, fruity change for Christmas dessert fans searching for something light.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry Cookies
Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Unique designs and holiday colors cover every tray of this Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies batch. Shaped like trees, stars, or stockings, they bring out creativity in everyone. I always invite guests to decorate their own for fun. Sugar cookies stand as a festive tradition that makes Christmas parties feel complete.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies
Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Deep flavors stand out each time you bite into these Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies dessert. The mix of fruit and chocolate earns lots of questions from guests eager to try something new. I fill cookie tins with these for special gifts. Cherry cookies blend timeless and bold for all winter events.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Caramel and pumpkin get their star moment in this Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies recipe. Soft, sticky cookies capture attention right from the start. I like including these treats for friends looking for something beyond the classics. Caramel and pumpkin make for a winning combo on December dessert tables.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies
Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Colorful ladybug cookies impress both young and old with this Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos suggestion. Chocolate and crunch meet cheerful design that attracts conversation. I tuck extras in holiday goody bags since these never last long. Ladybug Oreos are a whimsical highlight for any cold-weather occasion.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos
Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Red and white stripes take center stage with this Festive Candy Cane Oreos dessert idea. Mint and chocolate taste great after big winter meals. I use these for party favors since everyone wants more after the last crumb. Candy cane Oreos look perfect next to mugs of cocoa and piles of cookies by the fire.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos
Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Quick assembly never looked or tasted better than with this Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars option. Big squares cut easily to feed a crowd in no time at all. I serve these straight from the pan for casual gatherings. Cookie bars mean less prep and more time celebrating with friends and family at Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Cute antlers and red noses always bring big holiday grins when you pass out this Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops recipe. Portable treats make socializing easy for kids and adults alike. I slip these onto dessert platters for extra festive style. Reindeer pops deliver holiday fun, one sweet bite at a time.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops
Candy Cane Cookies

Spirals of pink and white make these Candy Cane Cookies a treat an instant holiday favorite. People break these apart to share, sparking conversation and laughter around the tree. I serve candy cane cookies with hot chocolate for a jolly finish. Twisting flavors and colors together, these cookies make every table look merry.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies
Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate fans circle the dessert tray looking for this Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe. Thick, gooey cookies double down on sweetness and make winter snacking memorable. I package up extras for neighbors and friends. Double chocolate puts dessert at the heart of holiday celebrations all season long.
Get the Recipe: Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Santa-shaped sandwiches filled with soft cake transform dessert time using this Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies recipe. Frosting details always prompt smiles from everyone who visits. I offer these as edible party favors because they’re so recognizable. Santa whoopies make Christmas feel jolly, right down to dessert.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies
Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Classic shortbread delivers melt-in-your-mouth comfort with each batch of this Buttery Shortbread Cookies recipe. Crumbly and rich, these cookies bring elegance to every party spread. I love pairing them with tea after tree trimming. Shortbread always gets polished off during cozy Christmas nights.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies
Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Green hues and crinkled sugar finish make this Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies recipe impossible to miss. These playful cookies win holiday contests and get snapped up fast. I keep a few aside for movie nights. Grinch cookies add a dash of mischief and a lot of joy to holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies
Soft Marry Me Cookies

Romantic names and gooey middles draw curiosity from every cookie fan with this Soft Marry Me Cookies recipe. People ask about the story behind the name before sneaking a second helping. I give these as fun gifts to those who enjoy unique desserts. Naming cookies turns dessert into a conversation point at every party.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies
Thumb Print Cookie

Jam-packed centers in each Thumb Print Cookie look as good as they taste piled high on dessert trays. Guests are drawn in by the colors and shapes, trading tips on favorite fillings. I always try different jams for each holiday. Thumbprint cookies bring a personal touch that everybody enjoys during the winter season.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie
Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Classic cake flavor takes cookie form in this Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe. Creamy topping stands out as guests pick their favorites from the dessert table. I slip these into lunchboxes and school parties for extra fun. Carrot cake cookies bridge homey flavor and festive presentation every time.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Miniature cookie trees tower above the rest on the dessert table thanks to this Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies recipe. Edible decorations have guests lining up with excitement. I set up a decorate-your-own table for kids and adults. Stacked cookies bring fresh fun and interactive style to winter gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies
Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Two crispy cookies packed with spiced filling combine for a taste of nostalgia using this Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies recipe. People snap these in half for sharing whenever the box opens. I love including them in Christmas dessert towers. Biscoff cookies balance crunch and sweetness, perfect for snowy nights.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies
About the Author

Hey there! I’m Mandy
Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.
She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.
She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.
