47 Christmas Cookie Ideas to Bring the Holiday Mood Into Your Kitchen

Bringing out a tray of cookies during Christmas sets the kind of scene people talk about for years. Packed with 47 different Christmas cookie ideas, this list offers inspiration for get-togethers, gift tins, or cozy nights in. Each cookie brings its own touch to the holidays. Small moments shared over cookies can make memories last longer.

Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Sometimes, the simplest ideas can create the best memories. These Sweet Salted Honey Cookies offer just the right mix of familiar comfort and a surprising twist. With their cozy, balanced sweetness, people always wonder what makes them so special. It’s a treat that has everyone reaching for an extra bite before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Adorable Snowman Cookies

Turning cookies into happy little snowmen feels like turning a kitchen into a winter wonderland. These Adorable Snowman Cookies are perfect for sparking laughter and smiles. I like to make these when I want everyone to remember the fun of the holidays, not just the flavor. For any group, they create a moment that’s pure Christmas magic.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Every bite into these S’mores Stuffed Cookies brings back memories of sitting by a warm fire. You get a taste of winter campfires right from your own kitchen. Friends often ask how these cookies manage to feel both nostalgic and new at the same time. If you’re looking for a holiday treat with a bit of fun, this is it.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

One look at these Swirled Marshmallow Cookies and you know they’re something special. Elegant swirls and that touch of charm make them perfect for cheerful celebrations. I’ve noticed that people get curious about how the inside will taste with every single bite. These cookies always keep the mood light and bright at any holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Cannoli Cookies

For anyone who craves a little twist at Christmas, these Cannoli Cookies have a way of standing out from the usual options. They bring a bakery-style flair to the spread, yet feel homemade and heartfelt. Guests will probably wonder what makes these different from anything they’ve had before.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cookies

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Memories of old-school holiday cheer come to life with these Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies. The gentle flavors and soft texture are perfect for anyone who loves comfort food with a holiday twist. I find these disappear fast at a cookie swap or just at home with a cup of cocoa. There’s something so inviting about the aroma they bring into the house.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies

Holiday tables always feel a bit brighter once these Candy Cane Cookies arrive. Their playful shapes and sweet charm manage to attract attention without even trying. These cookies are a go-to for anyone looking to create extra happiness during Christmas. I appreciate that they bring a traditional treat into a modern celebration seamlessly.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

You can almost sense people’s excitement when these Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies show up on the dessert tray. They have this cool, refreshing bite that keeps everyone guessing for another taste. I like making these for holiday parties where a classic with a twist always impresses. Somehow, a batch never seems to last very long on the counter.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

There’s a special coziness found in these Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies that feels just right for December. Every bite delivers the warm, chocolate flavor that makes winter nights memorable. Anyone who loves hot cocoa will smile at the familiar taste, yet the experience is brand new.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

For those who prefer classic choices, these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie always hits the right note. It brings together the old and the new in a way that never feels boring. I reach for these when I need treats everyone can agree on during busy holiday weeks. They have a way of making every gathering feel a bit more welcoming.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Holiday decorations can be tasty, too, thanks to these Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging. Kids and adults alike love the idea of eating the ornaments straight off the tree. The cheerful shapes and colors add instant joy wherever they show up. It’s a simple way to fill a room with fun and holiday excitement.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Sometimes life gets busy, and that’s when I lean on these Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. They come together fast but taste like you put in major effort. At parties, these bars are always one of the first things gone from the dessert table. That perfect mix of soft cookie and chocolate feels just right for the season.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Cowboy Cookies

Something about these Cowboy Cookies brings out everyone’s playful side during the holidays. Their bold personality fits right in with big celebrations and small gatherings alike. I notice there’s always someone curious to try them, especially if they’ve never had one before. Each bite is loaded with surprises that keep snackers coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cookies

Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Touches of green make these Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies an instant stand-out at any cookie exchange. They’ve got a look that’s both cute and mischievous; perfect for December. I find these work especially well when you want something whimsical and different.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

The aroma from these Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies has a way of catching everyone’s attention as soon as the box opens. If you like soft citrus paired with gentle tea notes, this cookie feels both fancy and homey. People often pause to take a second sniff before the first bite. They seem to turn any simple snack into a special treat.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

At every holiday table, there’s usually one treat that gets all the ooohs and ahhhs, and it’s often these Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies. Each layer stands tall in colorful, show-stopping fashion. Kids are drawn to the playful shape, while adults appreciate the added effort.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Ginger Bread House

Creating a Ginger Bread House always feels like the heart of Christmas cheer. It’s not just about eating; it’s about building memories and sparking conversations. Everyone likes to gather around and admire how cute the final house turns out. Later on, breaking it apart and sharing is just as much fun as putting it all together.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Whenever the holidays roll around, I make room for these Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies. Their bright colors and creative designs capture the season’s happiness on every plate. People never grow tired of seeing these at parties or cookie swaps. These cookies have a way of making Christmas even more cheerful and inviting.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

There’s a deep, sweet flavor hiding inside these Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Friends and family always raise an eyebrow, curious about that little extra taste in every piece. I enjoy the classic combo that manages to feel both grown-up and playful. For any group looking to try something a bit different, this is a must-have option.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Butter Pecan Cookies

Warmth and nostalgia seem to fill the kitchen when these Butter Pecan Cookies land on the counter. Everyone starts swapping winter stories as they reach for another cookie. I find that the comforting flavors make them a surprise hit every year. There’s just something special about how they bring people together with every batch.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies

Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Bringing a little extra sparkle to the dessert table, these Festive Candy Cane Oreos are eye-catching and so fun to snack on. Their clever use of classic flavors makes everyone want to sneak another. When I want cookies that feel both old-school and new, this is my favorite pick. The excitement seems to build as soon as people spot them.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Not everyone can enjoy traditional recipes, and that’s where these Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies shine. Folks always ask how they manage to taste just as rich as the original version. I bring out these cookies when I want everyone to be able to join in the holiday treats. There’s never a single one left at the end of the night.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Guests are instantly drawn to the playful shapes on these Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies. The cookie plate always looks more lively with these creative treats on display. Friends love seeing which designs show up each year, making them a real crowd-pleaser. Something about these cookies just brightens the entire room.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Finding the perfect balance of soft and chewy is a challenge, but these Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies somehow pull it off every single time. People immediately smile after the first bite because the comfort feels so familiar. I rely on these cookies when I need a surefire crowd-pleaser during the busy holiday season. It’s the type of treat that always draws a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Holiday dessert tables come alive with these Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes in the spotlight. Cute decorations get plenty of attention, with folks smiling before their first bite. I love watching people share photos and break into laughter. Fun treats like these make Christmas memories even sweeter.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Soft Lemon Cookies

There’s a gentle brightness to these Soft Lemon Cookies that shines through even in the chilliest winter weather. Friends always say they bring a splash of cheer to the dessert spread. I keep this recipe close for days when I want to surprise people with something light and different. They simply transform any regular evening into something festive.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies

Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Cookie platters get bonus charm with these Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos. Detailed decoration makes everyone pause to admire before digging in. I hand them out and notice instant grins from party guests. Sweet whimsy can be the highlight of a dessert buffet.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Custom designs turn these Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies into mini works of art. The fun comes from creating shapes and colors that match the holiday spirit exactly. Whenever I share these at a holiday event, they get plenty of attention from guests. There’s genuine excitement each time someone discovers a new design.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Every holiday gathering gets a little sweeter when I bring these Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies to the table. Their soft layers and eye-catching looks never fail to spark interest. Friends and visitors usually dive in quickly to find out what all the fuss is about. With each swirl, they deliver surprise after surprise.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Those who avoid dairy still have a home at the dessert table thanks to these Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter. Friends regularly comment that they can’t believe how rich and fluffy these are. I take extra pride in making cookies everyone can enjoy during the holidays. If you need a treat for all diets, this recipe covers it.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Taking a childhood favorite and turning it into a Christmas treat, this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie draws interest fast. The fun pairing feels both nostalgic and brand new all at once. I bring out these cookies when I want to surprise adults and kids alike. Every bite brings up memories from years past.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Soft Marry Me Cookies

Something special happens when these Soft Marry Me Cookies are part of the dessert spread. Their name alone makes people curious to give them a try. I love seeing the happiness they bring to every sort of holiday celebration. Sharing these cookies always leads to plenty of good stories and laughs.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies

Easy Whoopie Pie

No matter the time of year, Easy Whoopie Pie puts everyone in a festive mood. Their fun, sandwich-like shape makes them a staple at holiday parties. Friends are often drawn to them first, maybe because they promise a double layer of sweetness. I like to see who gets the first big bite and the last.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie

Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

As soon as these Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies appear, they bring a sense of winter wonder. The unique look hints at the surprises hidden inside, making each bite exciting. This is my top pick when I want both classic style and holiday fun in one package. People always reach for these before trying anything else.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Pops of fruit flavor help these Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies stand out at the cookie swap. Friends and family notice how they feel both lively and refreshing. I like making these when the dessert plate needs a burst of unexpected brightness. Each cookie offers a reminder that the holiday season can include all sorts of new surprises.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Bright colors and cute shapes make these Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops a show-stopper at winter parties. Their stick design turns cookies into a playful treat, fun for kids and adults. Watching people’s faces light up when they see these is a treat in itself. I think they make snack time a little more magical.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Blue fuzz and googly eyes make these Fun Cookie Monster Cookies impossible to ignore on any holiday table. They instantly lift the mood and set a playful tone for the whole event. I’ve noticed everyone, from little ones to grown-ups, gets excited to snap photos before eating. It’s a recipe that truly brings out the kid in everyone.
Get the Recipe: Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Buttery Shortbread Cookies

A gentle crispness and rich flavor make Buttery Shortbread Cookies a timeless holiday treat. They turn even a regular afternoon into something festive and cheerful. Serving them alongside tea or cocoa creates a simple, heartwarming moment. Each bite feels like a holiday tradition all on its own.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Thumb Print Cookie

The center spot of these Thumb Print Cookie always gets filled with something fun. You’ll notice people look twice, trying to figure out what surprise they’ll get with each cookie. I rely on these to bring some variety to the usual holiday tray. The playful presentation makes them popular with all ages.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie

Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Giving out these Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies feels extra meaningful around the holidays. The unique shape makes them stand out among more traditional treats. Friends appreciate the special touch and the care that comes with homemade holiday gifts. I love seeing the smiles that follow sharing a plate of these cookies.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Soft Strawberry Cookies

Pink hues and gentle flavor make these Soft Strawberry Cookies feel just right for a cheerful dessert table. When guests spot these, they almost always grab one just out of curiosity. It’s nice to have a fruity option in the middle of all the chocolate. I find they add a sense of fun to any winter night.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry Cookies

Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Stacking up these Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies brings a hint of crunch to the usual mix. Friends and coworkers get excited by their bold look and texture. I like using these as a way to bring some grown-up style to holiday snacking. They always end up as a conversation starter on any treat tray.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Vivid colors and creamy flavor define these Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies. There’s always a bit of buzz when these hit the table, because they’re not something you see every day. I make these for parties that call for a touch of holiday drama. Dramatic and sweet, they always become a fast favorite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter flavor shines through in these Soft Peanut Butter Cookies, creating pure comfort with each bite. Friends never pass up a second helping whenever these make an appearance. I reach for this recipe when I want a homey, simple dessert that everyone will love. Each cookie draws people in with its unmistakable aroma.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Santa takes center stage with these Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies, which practically invite a smile with every bite. It’s hard to feel anything but joyful when these are on the menu. The playful design usually draws a crowd before the first bite is even taken. I love how they bring an instant holiday mood to any room.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Layers of cocoa flavor turn these Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies into a go-to for chocolate fans. Each bite fills the air with that comforting, sweet scent everyone expects in December. I prize this recipe for its ability to please everyone in the room. Nothing says winter like a cookie packed with chocolate.
Get the Recipe: Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

No oven? No problem. These No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies skip the fuss while bringing big holiday flavor to the party. Friends like having a treat that feels homemade even when time is short. I keep this recipe on hand for those cozy December nights when you want cookies ASAP.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies