51 Christmas Cookie Ideas for a Cozy Night of December Baking

A chilly December evening feels complete when there’s a batch of cookies waiting in the kitchen. Here are 51 Christmas cookie ideas to fit whatever your plans are; whether you’re unwinding, catching up with visitors, or just craving something sweet. Each one brings its own kind of holiday cheer.

S’mores Stuffed Cookies

After the first bite of these S’mores Stuffed Cookies, you’ll see why people keep asking about them. The gooey center feels extra comforting when it’s frosty outside. I always notice folks reach for another, claiming they could eat them straight from the tray. Cozy evenings get much sweeter whenever this chewy treat makes an appearance on the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

The fresh scent that fills the kitchen as these Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies bake will put everyone in a good mood. There’s a gentle crunch on the outside paired with smooth chocolate that just melts in your mouth. Friends often mention they wish the batch lasted a bit longer. One of my favorite cookie jar staples, especially in December.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Every cookie platter gets brighter with this Sweet Salted Honey Cookies recipe. The sweet-and-salty combination makes each bite wildly comforting, yet unique. People ask what gives these their gentle flavor twist, but it’s a secret you don’t have to tell. I always tuck away a couple for myself since they’re usually the first treats gone.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

There’s something playful about this Swirled Marshmallow Cookies recipe that draws everyone in for one more. The colorful appearance adds a festive touch to any December gathering, standing out on any cookie tray. I notice kids and adults both try to pick the swirliest cookie in the bunch. Before you know it, the plate’s empty and everyone is debating who ate the most.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies

Fresh peppermint and playful shapes give these Candy Cane Cookies their charm. Wherever I bring them, people can’t help but smile at the red-and-white twists. Kids and grown-ups end up sneaking one before dessert even starts. A single cookie brings a dash of old-fashioned cheer to cold, dark evenings.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Adorable Snowman Cookies

No one forgets seeing these Adorable Snowman Cookies lined up on a baking sheet. Those little faces make everyone pause before eating, but they always disappear fast. You’ll hear happy chatter as people pick their favorite snowman. It’s an easy way to turn a regular night into something special without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

Cannoli Cookies

When there’s a tray of these Cannoli Cookies, people come back again and again for another. The crisp outside paired with a soft center creates a cookie that’s easy to enjoy slowly on a cozy night in. I make sure to bake a few extra, since they’re usually the first ones finished. Classic comfort in every bite, without being too sweet or too rich.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cookies

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Arriving at a gathering with this Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies recipe guarantees smiles all around. Their warm spice fills the room and sets a December mood as soon as they’re served. I always keep a batch stashed for late-night snacks on chilly evenings. It’s a timeless treat that’s both comforting and quietly exciting.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

These Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes tend to spark so much conversation because of the cute faces perched on every one. People love the holiday spirit they bring to any table. I notice they disappear fast, with a few giggles thrown in every time. Even folks who claim they’re not into sweets reach for them when they’re out.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Baking a batch of these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie brings back memories of cold weather and twinkling lights. Each cookie is soft yet chewy, which makes them perfect for dunking into a mug of milk or cocoa. People always ask for another when the jar comes out. I find myself looking forward to them during evening movie nights.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Soft Marry Me Cookies

Folks can’t help but smile when these Soft Marry Me Cookies appear on the dessert table. With every bite, there’s a gentle sweetness that always gets people curious about what makes them special. I’ve heard lots of happy chatter over how soft and inviting they are. Even after the last crumb, they stay on your mind.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies

Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

When winter winds blow extra cold, these Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies become the perfect pick-me-up snack. A deep, comforting chocolate flavor brings a moment of pure pleasure. I notice friends reach for one, then pause, enjoying the little burst of cherry. No plate seems quite as tempting as one filled with these treats.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

The detailed shapes on these Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies never fail to grab attention at any gathering. Matching the beauty with a delicious taste, they always get a second glance. Kids and adults alike can agree these are a must for the season. People tend to share memories as they reach for another.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Thumb Print Cookie

A tray of Thumb Print Cookies puts a hint of nostalgia on the holiday table every year. I enjoy how the playful jam center makes each cookie feel like a little present. After one bite, the balance of sweet and tender texture always stands out. Everyone looks for their favorite flavor as soon as they see these.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie

Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Guests can’t help smiling when they see these Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies arranged on the table. Their playful shapes spark curiosity about what’s hidden inside. I’ve noticed they turn any dessert spread into something even more joyous. Even adults compete to see who can pick the most creative design for their cookie.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes these Buttery Shortbread Cookies a staple of cold December nights. I love how they pair so well with a mug of hot chocolate or tea. The simple flavors never go out of style, and people keep reaching for just one more. It’s a comforting way to welcome winter evenings.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Festive Candy Cane Oreos

No dessert line-up feels complete without this Festive Candy Cane Oreos making a flashy entrance. The cheerful colors bring a jolt of happiness to any tray, while their crunch leaves people reaching for seconds. I like to watch which patterns people choose first when there are so many options. They spark lots of laughter as everyone compares designs.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Butter Pecan Cookies

On chilly evenings, this Butter Pecan Cookies recipe finds a way to warm everyone up. The nutty flavor paired with a gentle sweetness feels extra comforting after a long day. People tend to sneak extras from the plate before dinner is even finished. I always tuck away a few in a special tin, just for late-night snacks.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies

Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

After trying one of these Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies, you’ll quickly understand why people ask for the recipe. Their chewy center contrasts gently with a crisp outside, making each bite memorable. I enjoy keeping these on hand for any friends who are avoiding dairy or eggs, since they never feel like an afterthought. They fit right in with classic favorites every time.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Once these Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are out of the oven, it’s tough to wait for them to cool. People rave about the soft texture and sweet chocolate chunks in each bar. I often bring them to casual get-togethers because you’re guaranteed an empty tray. It’s the kind of simple recipe that gets everyone asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Childhood memories come rushing back when biting into these Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting treat. The delicate crumb and sweeter topping feel just right when the weather turns cool. I appreciate how they stand out as a unique twist on everyday cookies. There’s something comforting about carrot cake flavors in a bite-sized form.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Easy Whoopie Pie

Guests look forward to seeing this Easy Whoopie Pie stacked high on the dessert table. The combination of soft cake-style cookies and creamy filling is tough to resist. People often try to sneak an extra for the ride home, and I don’t blame them at all. It brings a smile to any fac; kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie

Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

The brightness of these Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies is a welcome change during winter. A gentle hint of blueberry brings a unique twist to the classic cookie spread. I find these disappear quickly no matter what else is being offered. People seem surprised at how light and fluffy each bite feels.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

This Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos recipe turns ordinary cookies into something totally fun. Their playful designs grab attention from everyone at the party. I love hearing all the jokes about which cookie looks the cutest before anyone dares to eat them. They spark a little extra joy on cold December nights.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Bright green and full of cheer, these Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies always brings out the smiles. People ask about the color every time they see them, curious about the story behind the name. I notice that kids especially can’t wait to try their first one. They’re perfect when you want something playful and bright for a holiday night.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Rich aroma fills the kitchen when this Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe is baking. The classic chocolate chip flavor is welcoming, inviting everyone to take another cookie or two. I usually double the batch since it’s so hard to stop at one. Cold December evenings call for cookies this comforting and warm.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Stacking cookies turns into an event with this Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies arrangement. The layers create a fun centerpiece at any baking night, bringing everyone together for a few laughs. I see friends competing to build the biggest cookie trees. Afterward, it’s just as fun breaking them apart and sharing.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Fans of chocolate always reach for this Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies recipe first. A soft, cake-like texture makes each cookie feel extra fancy and delicious. People ask what bakery you got them at, but these are secretly homemade. I like how special they make weeknight dessert feel without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Homemade ornaments take a sweet turn with this Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging recipe. Friends and guests gather to choose which cookie will be hung up first, turning dessert into a shared experience. I save a couple for munching while decorating, as they taste just as festive as they look. They bring both decoration and dessert to the table.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

No December baking session is complete without this Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies recipe. People love joining the decorating fun, making their cookies stand out in creative ways. I find that laughter fills the kitchen with every new design. These always become the highlight of any cookie platter.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Warm, relaxing scents fill the room when these Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies are around. The combination of tea and citrus makes them memorable without overpowering the rest of the desserts. People ask about the unique flavor as soon as they taste it. I make a few extra to enjoy with a cozy afternoon drink.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’ve ever needed an easy, crowd-pleasing treat, this Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe fits the bill. People never guess that something is missing, since the texture stays soft and comforting. I like offering these to friends with egg allergies, knowing everyone feels included. There’s real joy in baking cookies that are perfect for nearly any group.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Frosty nights call for this Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies recipe to round out dessert. Each bite has a softness that reminds you of sipping a sweet warm drink after coming indoors. Guests often comment on the familiar chocolate flavor and reach for seconds. I think these shine at late-night movie marathons or board game nights.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

This Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter recipe surprises everyone with its gentle flavor and light texture. Folks often ask for the secret behind how soft they stay, and it’s always fun to share. I enjoy knowing there’s a great alternative for anyone watching their dairy. Cookie trays become much more welcoming with these little surprises added.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Ginger Bread House

Creative energy fills the room the minute this Ginger Bread House project starts. Constructing each house turns into a hands-on activity that keeps everyone engaged and laughing together. I set aside a few candy pieces for snacking while making memories. These sweet houses become the centerpiece for any cozy baking night in December.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Dessert trays turn into a special treat with this Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies recipe. There’s a comforting aroma and soft swirl of flavors that people always ask about. I love seeing the moment guests realize they can have bakery-style cookies at home. It’s the kind of treat that feels fancy yet easygoing all at once.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Festive energy lights up the room when this Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies are passed around. The cute designs spark excitement, making every bite feel like a little celebration. I notice these go quickly, usually with people laughing at the playful faces. There’s never a dull moment when these show up on the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Cowboy Cookies

Heartiness and a just-right chew make these Cowboy Cookies a favorite among snack fans. People often rave about the old-school vibe they bring to any kitchen. I appreciate how they fill you up with just a few bites. They’re a welcome twist from the usual holiday lineup.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cookies

Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A snowy look makes this Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies almost too pretty to eat at first. Once people take a bite, though, the soft middle and rich taste keep them coming back for more. I find crinkle cookies always spark cheerful memories of childhood. They’re a beautiful addition to any winter dessert display.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Dessert gets a retro twist with this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie recipe. Old-school flavors are given a bakery-style makeover that guests can’t stop talking about. I love bringing these to cookie swaps for a playful change of pace. People often ask where you picked up such a fun idea.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Soft Lemon Cookies

The cheery flavor in this Soft Lemon Cookies adds a gentle brightness even on the coldest evenings. Each soft cookie melts away any winter gloom with one bite. I’ve noticed that lemon fans try to snag extra before they’re all gone. They become a welcome surprise amid all the regular holiday flavors.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies

Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate cravings meet their match with this Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe. The fudge-like taste brings a touch of luxury to cozy nights at home. I bake an extra batch because one serving is never enough for a hungry crowd. Friends always want to know what makes them so extra special.
Get the Recipe: Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Crunch and sweet spice fill this Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies with layers of flavor. Each cookie brings a little extra joy to snack time and gets people talking about their favorite cookie brands. I always notice smiles around the table with each bite. These have an easy way of getting everyone together.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Shaped treats draw extra attention, especially with this Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies recipe. There’s something simple and charming about little hearts on a December evening. I see friends trading these cookies as fun mini gestures of affection. They feel right at home among more traditional options yet still stand out.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Soft Strawberry Cookies

Cool evenings get sweeter whenever this Soft Strawberry Cookies appears fresh out of the oven. A burst of berry flavor seems to delight both kids and adults with every bite. I like making these for a pop of color on chilly nights. There’s a little thrill in breaking up the usual chocolate and spice with something fruity.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry Cookies

Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Warm spices make these Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies a favorite during December get-togethers. The aroma turns the kitchen into a haven when the weather gets cold. I find these are always a hit with anyone looking for plant-based options. No one ever guesses that they’re vegan; they taste just as comforting as the classics.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

These No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies bring plenty of homey flavor without much effort. People love the sweet maple scent and gentle crunch, especially when the oven’s already busy. I serve them chilled for an easy make-ahead treat that still feels festive. Simple recipes like this let you spend more time with friends and family.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Smiles are pretty much guaranteed when this Fun Cookie Monster Cookies recipe comes out of the kitchen. People can’t resist trying to pick out the one with the silliest face. I enjoy making these with kids for a low-stress December activity that ends with a sweet reward. Laughter always follows when cookies look this playful.
Get the Recipe: Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Whenever you serve this Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies, everyone feels included. Their gentle texture and pleasant flavor mean you get a classic result without any dairy or eggs. I like seeing guests light up when they realize these options are for everyone. Cookie plates get a whole lot more welcoming with recipes like this.
Get the Recipe: Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Familiar comfort kicks in once this Soft Peanut Butter Cookies are set out on the tray. Their soft bite always draws a crowd, especially among peanut butter fans. I tuck a couple of these away since they make a great midnight snack on cold December nights. The whole batch usually disappears before anyone can grab seconds.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Treat tables turn playful with this Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops lined up together. Their charming look draws lots of attention and plenty of laughs from both kids and adults. I find they’re popular for parties because they’re easy to grab and eat on the go. These cookie pops bring an extra spark to any December gathering.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops