49 Christmas Cookie Recipe Ideas For When You Want a Little Holiday Treat on Standby
Fresh energy fills the kitchen each time 49 Christmas cookie recipe ideas are within reach for quick cravings. Guests drop by, plans change, and a homemade treat turns an ordinary moment festive. Simple baking lets you stay prepared for any holiday need. Being ready means you never miss out on a favorite seasonal bite.

Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Every bite of this Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies fills a chilly evening with gentle spice and cozy sweetness. Folks often return for seconds at holiday gatherings. Their pleasing texture and warm aroma set a cheerful, welcoming mood. Enjoying these cookies feels like a festive hug on a winter day.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Adorable Snowman Cookies

Anyone looking to bring a smile to a holiday party table will love these Adorable Snowman Cookies. The cute look draws plenty of attention before the first taste is taken. Their winter magic brings out laughter and joy in every bite. Children and adults alike are quick to reach for another.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies
S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Fireside memories come rushing back with each S’mores Stuffed Cookies. Guests light up when discovering the surprise center inside. Chocolate and marshmallow bring comfort during the colder months. No one can resist the perfect hint of nostalgia these little treats deliver.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies
Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Brimming with gentle warmth, these Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies fill your kitchen with inviting aromas. Every batch draws people together, chatting and sampling as cookies cool. Their soft bite and wintery spices suit any holiday cookie tray. Sharing them has a way of making spirits brighter.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies
Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

For those who like sweet treats balanced with something special, these Sweet Salted Honey Cookies do the trick. Each mouthful hints at rich golden honey with a gentle finish. The pretty sugar sparkle invites everyone to stop and try one. They’re always a conversation starter at the holiday dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies
Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Swirls of fluff meet cookie in these playful Swirled Marshmallow Cookies. The melting texture makes each bite feel like winter fun. Friends will comment on how light they are compared to traditional holiday fare. You’ll notice these tend vanish first from the cookie platter.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies
Candy Cane Cookies

Instantly recognizable, Candy Cane Cookies add a pop of color and peppermint cheer. Their striped look brings out the childhood magic of Christmas. Sweet, simple, and merry, these cookies signal the start of the festive season. People always ask for the secret behind their perfect crunch.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies
Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Chocolate and mint blend together in the Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies for a cool, wintry twist. The fresh aroma fills the house with holiday spirit. These are a favorite at cookie exchanges thanks to their timeless combination. Everyone appreciates how these cookies balance richness and freshness so well.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies
Cannoli Cookies

With a touch of Italian inspiration, these Cannoli Cookies offer a creamy surprise within a crisp shell. Each bite recalls classic bakery counters during the holiday buzz. Guests are pleasantly surprised by the unique blend of flavors. Their festive look fits right in with Christmas traditions.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cookies
Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Bright and inviting, Festive Candy Cane Oreos bring instant holiday flair to any cookie tray. Their bold colors attract curious snackers of all ages. Crunchy, chocolaty, and just the right amount of peppermint makes them irresistible. People always mention how fun it is to try something familiar with a Christmas twist.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Simple pleasures shine in the Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, where hearty oats mingle with bursts of chocolate. These cookies are always a safe bet for pleasing different tastes. The little bit of chew brings back childhood memories for many. Sharing a batch can spark stories of other family traditions.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie
Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

That tempting cinnamon swirl on the Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies never fails to turn heads. Soft, buttery layers create an experience just like stepping into a favorite bakery. People quickly ask how these were made since they taste bakery-fresh. No plate is left with any crumbs behind after sharing.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies
Butter Pecan Cookies

Buttery crunch and mild nuttiness come together in Butter Pecan Cookies for a festive treat with a classic touch. Their golden color brightens up holiday dessert platters. Kids and adults alike are drawn in by the nutty aroma. These cookies always seem to make conversations linger a bit longer.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies
Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Hanging Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging creates a twinkling, edible holiday display that impresses guests of all ages. The cheerful colors turn any space into a storybook scene. While they look almost too pretty to eat, people quickly encourage each other to take one down and try a bite. Decorating and eating double the joy.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging
Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Allergy-friendly and tender, Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies open up holiday sharing to everyone. People often can’t believe how soft they are once they try them. A familiar bite without any fuss makes these a welcome addition. No one misses out on cookies with this recipe around.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies
Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

A centerpiece-worthy cookie, the Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies become both décor and dessert. Layered shapes and bright decorations draw plenty of attention. Kids are especially happy to pull them apart, while others admire the playful look. They’re perfect when you want the holiday table to feel extra special.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Dessert feels like a celebration when serving these Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies. Their rich, cake-like bite satisfies every sweet craving during the season. Chocolate fans find it hard to resist asking for seconds. Friends and family will talk about these cookies long after the last crumb is gone.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies
Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

These playful Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos bring extra smiles to holiday parties. Their cheerful decorations make them a favorite with kids and adults alike. Biting into the creamy center is like finding a sweet surprise. Each cookie adds a bit of fun and whimsy to the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos
Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Anyone who enjoys almond flavor will reach for Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies at the first pass. Their gentle chew and delicate sweetness set them apart from ordinary cookies. Seeing vegan guests join in the treat tray brings everyone closer. They fit perfectly into both classic and modern holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies
Soft Marry Me Cookies

There’s a certain charm when serving Soft Marry Me Cookies at a gathering. Buttery sweetness with hints of holiday flavor lead friends to quietly sneak extras for later. The soft texture feels comforting during cold weather. These cookies regularly become the talk of the dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies
Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Delicate aromas fill the room with these Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies, offering a grown-up twist to holiday baking. Subtle lemon brightens up every bite, while the herbal notes surprise cookie fans. These treats spark curiosity and fresh conversation around the snack table. Trying them always feels like a mini adventure.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Childhood breakfasts take a festive turn with the Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie. Approaching the platter, guests will pause, intrigued by a familiar pairing in cookie form. Sweet, comforting, and unique, these treats spark happy memories. Conversations flow freely with these cookies on hand.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie
Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Cold evenings call for the chocolatey comfort found in Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies. The familiar warmth and cocoa aroma mean treats don’t need a mug to bring cheer. These cookies create warmth and happiness with every bite. Everyone tends to reach in for a second without thinking twice.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies
Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Bring brightness to the holiday spread with Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies. Tart bursts and sweet bites keep people coming back for more. These cookies surprise and delight, especially when most options lean toward chocolate and caramel. They’re like finding a touch of sunshine on a wintry day.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies
Ginger Bread House

Building a Ginger Bread House is a creative activity that fills the room with laughter and excitement. People become architects and artists, working together to make something magical. The spicy scent turns any gathering into a cozy spot. Afterward, nibbling the construction is just as much fun as building it.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House
Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting bring homey warmth to the holiday mix. Their soft crumb and creamy topping evoke bakery comforts. A cookie like this brings gentle sweetness that’s just right after a big meal. Many discover they’ve found a new seasonal favorite by the time dessert ends.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Cowboy Cookies

Crunch, chew, and a hint of sweet meet in the Cowboy Cookies. Their hearty mix draws a crowd, especially among those craving something more than just sugar. Each bite feels a little bit like an adventure. Cookie tins empty out quickly when these are part of the mix.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cookies
Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Colorful sprinkles and soft bite make Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies a holiday staple for everyone. Their gentle flavor means they pair well with cocoa or cider. Vegan friends appreciate being included, while others hardly notice any difference. The cheerful look brightens even the grayest December afternoon.
Get the Recipe: Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies
Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

A touch of whimsy arrives with Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes, adding a playful note to the treat selection. The decorated faces inspire giggles and stories about holiday traditions. These are especially popular with younger guests. Bringing these cupcakes ensures the dessert table gets plenty of attention and happy chatter.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes
Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Holiday baking feels even more special with Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies on the tray. The snap and spice create a memorable treat different from everyday cookies. Their unique flavor stands out among other holiday favorites. After trying them, many search for the recipe to capture the same magic at home.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies
Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Bold and chewy, Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies deliver a wintry indulgence perfect for chocolate lovers. Tart cherry bits add something unexpected. Dessert fans love the deep flavor and bright surprise within. Any dessert plate featuring these gains extra interest and excitement.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Laughter and color abound with these Fun Cookie Monster Cookies bringing playful character to the festivities. Kids race to the table for their blue-hued treats. Lighthearted and bright, they help set a relaxed mood among holiday bustle. New guests are quick to ask for the secret behind their cheerful appearance.
Get the Recipe: Fun Cookie Monster Cookies
Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Eye-catching and creative, Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies double as table decoration and dessert. Hanging or displayed, they lend sparkle to the celebration. People are curious to find out how something so pretty can taste so good. These cookies encourage everyone to linger just a little longer by the snack tray.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies
Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Holiday cheer arrives in the form of Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies. Their fluffy centers and fun colors look almost too good to eat. Sharing these sparks stories about favorite Santa memories. Soft, cake-like cookies bring a smile even before that first bite.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies
Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies are a surefire way to add joy and sparkle to cookie plates everywhere. The bright decorations bring a pop of green and a sweet mood to gatherings. Kids delight in choosing their favorite shapes. No holiday feels complete without at least one of these cheerful cookies.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies
Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Winter spice and soft texture blend perfectly in Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies. Their classic appeal makes them a crowd favorite year after year. Being plant-based means no one misses out on traditional flavors. Holiday baking feels more inclusive and welcoming with these cookies on the table.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies
Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Dotted with colorful decorations, Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies make dessert tables pop with festive cheer. Their crisp edge and tender bite bring traditional charm. People always take time choosing their favorite design before taking a nibble. These cookies add an extra layer of fun to holiday traditions.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies
Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

The snowy look of Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies instantly calls to mind a frosty December morning. Their soft interior and crunchy exterior deliver a classic cookie experience. Friends and family reach for them first, drawn by the cocoa aroma. They end up a favorite wherever they make an appearance.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Thumb Print Cookie

Spread a little joy with the classic look of the Thumb Print Cookie. The sweet spot of jam in each one tempts both young and old. These cookies have a way of starting conversations and connecting generations. Holiday cookie trays always feel more complete when a few of these are nestled in the mix.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie
Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Deep color and generous chunks make Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies stand out on any platter. The flavor has a wow factor that turns heads at festive gatherings. People quickly ask what makes these so rich and tempting. After tasting, it’s clear why these cookies steal the spotlight during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies
Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Love gets baked right into the Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies every time. The gentle flavor and soft texture create sweet moments of sharing. Friends often trade their favorites, making the holiday bright with a little extra affection. Something about the cute shape keeps the mood light at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies
Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Fast, fun, and big on flavor, Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars please anyone pressed for time during the busy season. The slices serve easily for parties and group get-togethers. Each piece holds a little bit of chocolatey comfort. Baking these bars means no one stresses over homemade treats anymore.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Hearty and inviting, Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans bring warmth and gentle crunch to chilly holiday nights. Their autumn notes suit December just fine, especially when sharing with guests. The aroma makes gatherings feel homey. These cookies regularly disappear within minutes of serving.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans
Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies

For a little twist, Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies delight with swirls and seasoning that fit right into wintry celebrations. Rolling them up creates a special touch for gift boxes or dessert tables. Each bite delivers a gentle hug of spice. They’ve quickly become a holiday-season conversation piece.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies
Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

A familiar childhood favorite, Soft Peanut Butter Cookies never fail to bring smiles to the kitchen. Their gentle sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth feel work for every generation. Each cookie tells its own holiday memory. No wonder friends reach for these before trying anything else.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies
Easy Whoopie Pie

When you need a quick win, Easy Whoopie Pie steps up with playful looks and pillowy softness. Sharing these always sparks happy reactions from friends and guests. No fuss but plenty of fun, this cookie is perfect for festive get-togethers. The crowd-pleasing filling makes them a favorite for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie
Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Lively and spirited, Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops put a playful spin on cookie decorating. Their cute faces are an instant hit at parties and family gatherings. Treats like these inspire everyone to snap a photo before eating. Having them on hand makes the dessert table twice as merry.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops
Soft Lemon Cookies

Light and refreshing, Soft Lemon Cookies brighten up wintry days with a little citrus joy. The gentle crumb keeps guests happy after a heavy holiday meal. These cookies bring sunshine to the season without overpowering. They are ideal for those seeking something different amid all the chocolate and spice.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies
Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Bright green and playful, Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies capture holiday fun in every batch. Their cheerful look earns a nod from young fans and movie lovers alike. Setting them out guarantees curious glances and lively conversations. These cookies make sure the spirit of the season sticks around long after dessert.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle 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.
