51 Christmas Cookie Inspirations For Simple Sweet Moments in December

Holiday baking gets easy with ideas you can use anytime. You’ll find 51 cookie inspirations when December calls for something special but simple. Gathering friends or relaxing at home, there’s always a reason to put cookies on the table. Even busy days can feel festive with quick recipes ready to go.

Cannoli Cookies

Old-world holiday charm comes alive with this Cannoli Cookies recipe. Bite-sized, crisp edges welcome a creamy center that always draws conversation around dessert trays. Guests often wonder what makes these so inviting at a gathering in December. One taste is all it takes to brighten up a cozy night indoors.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cookies

Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Refreshing chocolate flavor mingles with mint in this Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies recipe, leaving people reaching for seconds. The dough bakes up feather-light with a cooling scent that carries through the house. December evenings call for quiet moments with a sweet twist like this. Everyone finds these impossible to walk past.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies

Bright stripes and a whisper of peppermint make this Candy Cane Cookies recipe pure December magic. Setting these out always sparks excitement with their classic look. Every cookie just asks to be shared while folks sip cocoa or cider. Sparkling sugar finishes set off a plate that brings people together.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Warm spice fills the air when baking this Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies recipe for holiday gatherings. Each cookie brings back the best parts of the season, from childhood wonder to grown-up comfort. Soft textures invite everyone to grab another round. No one can pass these without a smile during the heart of winter.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Winter surprises hide within this S’mores Stuffed Cookies recipe, with gooey centers that spark conversation at any holiday table. Classic campfire fun turns cheerful when tucked inside a cookie for December. The first bite brings both nostalgia and new excitement. These disappear quickly once the platter makes its rounds.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Artistic swirls steal the show with this Swirled Marshmallow Cookies recipe, lighting up dessert trays across living rooms. Fluffy texture pairs perfectly with rich flavors for a gentle winter treat. People pause when they see the cookies’ gorgeous patterns. Light, colorful, and just sweet enough, these become a centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Adorable Snowman Cookies

Whimsical faces and frosted hats bring so much cheer in this Adorable Snowman Cookies recipe. Kids and adults alike pause to admire before taking a bite. Every snowman sparks conversation and brightens up a December spread. Cookie swaps and gift boxes always get an extra dose of charm from these little treats.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Salty and sweet meet in perfect harmony thanks to this Sweet Salted Honey Cookies recipe. The inviting aroma fills a room with golden warmth ideal for holiday mornings. A single bite of these chewy, balanced treats brightens even the chilliest day. People often ask how something so simple can taste so comforting.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Cowboy Cookies

Hearty, chunky, and full of surprises, this Cowboy Cookies recipe gets everyone reaching for the cookie tin. Flavor and chew go hand in hand with each bite, creating a treat that’s always welcome in December. The texture keeps you guessing and wanting more. There’s nothing plain about these crowd-pleasers.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cookies

Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Everyone can join in the fun with this Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies recipe, perfect for those avoiding dairy or eggs. The cookies bake up gentle and pillowy, ready for decorating and sharing all month long. Even folks who don’t usually go vegan reach for these during parties. Their mild sweetness carries the spirit of the season.
Get the Recipe: Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Cinnamon sugar depth swirls right through this Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies recipe. Eye-catching spirals draw admiration at every gathering. The bakery feel brings a touch of something special to the holiday table. These cookies taste like comfort with every soft, warm bite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Ginger Bread House

Holiday memories come alive as hands gather to build this Ginger Bread House recipe. Decorating becomes half the fun, transforming treats into a centerpiece for cold-weather evenings. Even if it doesn’t last the night, laughter is guaranteed. Every December feels a little more magical with a cookie house at the center.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House

Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Zippy citrus and juicy berries shine bright in this Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies recipe. The lively aroma brings a sunlit hint to grey winter days. Cookie lovers often make these disappear before the main meal even arrives. You’ll notice their popularity at brunches and impromptu drop-ins.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Whimsical shapes and chocolate shields define this Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos recipe, sure to spark smiles. The playful colors stand out in a sea of holiday reds and greens. Kids of all ages reach for an extra cute moment. These are the cookies people talk about long after the party ends.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Cheerful faces mounted on sticks make this Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops recipe a show-stopper. Hands both big and small grab these edible decorations at first chance. Laughter follows every batch leaving the plate in December. These memorable cookies keep everyone in holiday spirits with every lick and nibble.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Tender bites await anyone who tries this Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe, with classic flavors everyone enjoys. These cookies are perfect for events where some folks skip eggs but crave tradition. Each golden disk comes out soft and inviting. Sharing handmade treats has never been so easy during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Soft Lemon Cookies

Bright flavors turn up in this Soft Lemon Cookies recipe, perfect for a light break during rich holiday feasts. The gentle citrus wakes up sleepy winter afternoons with a fresh spark. Placing these out with after-dinner tea encourages happy second helpings. Their softness makes every bite an understated surprise.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies

Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Ornament-shaped treats always bring extra fun, like this Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies recipe. These eye-catching sweets add a playful twist to classic cookie trays. Shiny sprinkles and bright colors light up the dessert table in December. People often comment on how beautiful these look before taking that first nibble.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Childhood favorites return in a whole new way with this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie recipe. Familiar, creamy flavors paired with bursts of sweet fruit fill every bite. Friends often ask how something so nostalgic fits the holidays so well. Layers of comfort and joy combine for a real winter treat.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Nothing beats the warm welcome of this Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe straight from the oven. Sweetness and gooeyness make these cookies a universal crowd-pleaser in December. Whether it’s for a gift plate or a cozy night, their popularity never fades. Sharing these brings out smiles every single time.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Holiday shapes steal the spotlight with this Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies recipe. Each cookie comes ready for decorating, making every gathering more creative. Sprinkles and icing encourage big imaginations and group fun. Laying out a tray of these miniature trees ushers in endless December cheer.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Italian spirit visits your table with this Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies recipe, but without any animal products. Why settle for plain when a touch of almond brings such character? Seasonal platters shine brighter when these cookies show up. Guests always reach for one more before the night ends.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Frosting, sparkles, and colors come together in this Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies recipe. Everyone can personalize a cookie to match their festive mood. A plate of these sweet works of art sets off conversation and good cheer. Sharing becomes even more memorable with hands-on decorating at holiday get-togethers.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Chewy oats and melty chocolate combine in this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe, a year-round favorite that feels extra special in December. Families and friends appreciate the warm gesture when these hit the table. Each cookie blends hearty comfort and sweet fun. These never last long at any cookie swap or gathering.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Easy Whoopie Pie

Fluffy filling bookended by soft cookies makes this Easy Whoopie Pie recipe nearly impossible to resist. When stacked on a festive plate, these treats vanish surprisingly fast. The sandwich shape is perfect for grabbing on the go between greetings and stories. Holiday traditions welcome a fresh spin with this simple treat.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie

Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

A cozy dessert gets reimagined with this Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe. Tender, spiced cookies topped with a sweet finish always stand out in December. Sharing these often sparks curiosity about the recipe. It’s a gentle surprise in a season filled with chocolate and spice.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Layers of chocolate join forces in this Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe, ready for even the biggest sweet tooth at a winter gathering. Each bite feels extra special on a chilly December night. The deep cocoa flavor fills the kitchen as trays cool on the counter. People keep peeking over, hoping for seconds and thirds.
Get the Recipe: Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Santa’s ready for his close-up in this Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies recipe, where playful shapes meet a soft, fluffy snack. Splitting one open always gets a reaction around the table. Cheerful faces invite holiday laughter at every age. Passing around these playful sweets keeps December gatherings lighthearted and fun.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Bright green color and crackled tops make this Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies recipe a holiday showpiece. Kids and grown-ups alike go for these quirky cookies right away. Their soft texture contrasts perfectly with the playful look. December needs a little mischief, and these deliver just the right dose.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Light and gentle, this Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter recipe surprises by being rich and flavorful without traditional dairy. People often want to know how they’re so tender. These cookies bring everyone together, even those with special diets. No one feels left out when these show up on the tray.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Deep red hues and sweet chips steal the spotlight with this Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies recipe. Every bite feels like a small celebration on a winter day. Friends and family reach for seconds just to be sure they’re as good as they look. A holiday dessert table gains style from these rich, festive cookies.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Butter Pecan Cookies

Warm, nutty notes whisper through this Butter Pecan Cookies recipe, filling December afternoons with old-fashioned comfort. Crunchy bits give way to smooth, mellow flavors with every bite. These treats are always popular on the dessert tray. Neighbors make a point to linger near the cookie plate for these sweet classics.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies

Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Deep aroma and soft texture define this Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies recipe, perfect for those who stick to plant-based treats. The cookies turn out fragrant and easy to decorate, blending right in with classic holiday fare. Folks appreciate a thoughtful treat that invites everyone to indulge. These might disappear faster than you’d think.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Shiny, crackled tops set this Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies recipe apart at any December celebration. Rich flavors inside highlight the season with every soft, chewy bite. Cookie tins feel incomplete without this showstopper nestled inside. Feel free to repeat these at every holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Soft Marry Me Cookies

Sweet moments call for this Soft Marry Me Cookies recipe, which brings gentle comfort to the holiday table. The creamy, chewy texture invites people to linger before heading out into the cold night. A touch of something extra keeps these from blending in. Memories are made with every bite in December.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies

Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Time-saving and crowd-pleasing, this Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars recipe always brings the party together in December. Simple prep means more moments for laughter and less for cleanup. These bars slice evenly, making them perfect for sharing. Everyone feels like they are getting the best bite of the batch.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Cozy winter flavors shine through in this No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies recipe, perfect for cold evenings when the oven stays off. The simplicity means you can whip up a batch quickly for last-minute guests. Crunchy, sweet, and smooth, these treats bring comfort by the handful. No one misses the oven after trying these.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Melt-in-your-mouth texture rules the scene with this Buttery Shortbread Cookies recipe. Every crumb brings thoughts of snowy afternoons and hot drinks shared indoors. These cookies find their way into gift boxes and coffee breaks throughout December. Sharing them almost always leads to recipe requests.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Deep chocolate and fruity cherry create contrast in this Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies recipe. The pairing turns a simple cookie plate into something memorable for holiday guests. Friends often search for the last cookie on the platter. Each bite gives a mix of bold flavor and gentle nostalgia.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Holiday stripes and a playful crunch come together in this Festive Candy Cane Oreos recipe. These cookies look dazzling at any December event or on a homemade gift plate. Crunchy centers keep hands reaching for one more. Expect big smiles from anyone who gets to try these unique cookies.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Heart-shaped treats aren’t just for February, with this Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies recipe winning hearts in December too. Every cookie spreads warmth and care at holiday gatherings. A pop of color or sprinkles makes these even more special. People tend to remember the plate with these cookies long after the party ends.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Carrot Cake Cookies

Classic flavors take a new form in this Carrot Cake Cookies recipe, putting a comforting favorite within easy reach. Gentle spice and sweetness feel perfect for December. People often comment about the familiar taste in a cookie’s cozy shape. These offer a welcome change from chocolate-heavy spreads.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Cookies

Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Delicate tea and sparkling citrus pair up in this Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies recipe, bringing elegance to seasonal cookie plates. The subtle aroma often draws attention even before the first bite. Each cookie is like a little winter afternoon retreat. Friends notice the thoughtful twist on a classic treat.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Hot chocolate finds a new form in this Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies recipe, bringing extra coziness to frosty winters. Soft, chocolatey cookies with a hint of marshmallow fill the kitchen with inviting warmth. Cookie plates feel incomplete without a few of these nestled in. They feel like a December hug in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter fans always search for this Soft Peanut Butter Cookies recipe at holiday gatherings, drawn by the rich aroma alone. Each bite melts away, leaving a nutty memory on the palate. They seem to vanish quicker than any other treat. These cookies hold their own among more elaborate seasonal bakes.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Playful stacking adds a new twist to this Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies recipe. Kids and adults love building and eating these at the same time. Bright colors and frosted layers transform the dessert table into a winter wonderland. A tower of these cookies guarantees fun at every December celebration.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Soft Strawberry Cookies

Berry brightness comes out to play with this Soft Strawberry Cookies recipe, providing refreshment from rich holiday flavors. The gentle pink hue stands out on a wintry dessert tray. Sweet but not heavy, these cookies keep everyone coming back for more. Subtle fruit flavor makes for a cheerful surprise in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry Cookies

Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Cupcakes double as cute decor with this Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes recipe, showing off fun faces and playful toppings. Each serves both as a centerpiece and as a treat in December. People snap pictures before choosing their favorite. Gathering around a plate of these cupcakes brings out laughter every time.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Cookies filled and sandwiched with a hint of spice make this Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies recipe a welcome treat. Thin, crisp layers surprise with a smooth, bold center. These stand out among sugary classics, bringing just enough crunch to each bite. Cookie swaps get a boost when these appear among softer sweets.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Cookie decorating turns interactive fun with this Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging recipe. Designed for both eating and display, they double as edible ornaments throughout December. Children and adults string these up, filling rooms with cheer. Gone from the tree or the plate, everyone enjoys them equally.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Thumb Print Cookie

Pressed centers full of color make this Thumb Print Cookie recipe a repeat favorite on December dessert spreads. Every indent invites homemade jams or festive sprinkles for a burst of flavor. People love customizing these on baking nights. The simplicity only highlights the holiday charm packed into every batch.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie