47 Christmas Cookie Recipe Ideas For Cold Nights When the Oven Feels Like a Bonus

Making cookies during the holidays is more than just a treat, it feels like a way to bring everyone together. These 47 Christmas cookie ideas offer plenty to choose from for celebrations or nights when a warm oven is all you need. They’re perfect for festive tables or simply enjoying something sweet while it’s cold outside.

Christmas tree shaped cookies on a baking sheet. — Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

S’mores Stuffed Cookies

A close-up of chocolate chip cookies filled with melted marshmallow, with one cookie broken open to show the gooey center. — S’mores Stuffed Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Sharing this S’mores Stuffed Cookies brings everyone together around the dessert table. Friends quickly notice the gooey center and reach for seconds. I find warm cookies like these spark stories about campfires and winter nights. Crunch and marshmallow goodness make every batch feel a bit special.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Close-up of Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies with green frosting and chocolate drizzle on top. — Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Peppermint fans gravitate toward this Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies as soon as the platter arrives. Each bite delivers a cool twist on a classic favorite. I notice their soft texture makes them a popular choice during colder evenings. Minty cookies lift the mood in the middle of the season.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies

Trays light up with this Candy Cane Cookies and the bright stripes always catch someone’s eye. People often snap a photo before picking up a sweet swirl. I like serving cookies that double as cheery decorations. Simple colors make the whole event feel a little more festive.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Several gingerbread cookies shaped like people, decorated with white icing and small colorful candies, are perfectly arranged on a piece of parchment paper. — Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cold weather pairs perfectly with this Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies. Warm spices invite everyone to grab a few and stay near the oven. I often see smiles when these cookies come out fresh and soft. The aroma helps set a gentle and joyful holiday mood.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Cannoli Cookies

A plate of cookies topped with chopped pistachios, drizzled with chocolate, and dusted with powdered sugar. — Cannoli Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Dessert tables get a little fancier with this Cannoli Cookies. A crispy bite draws people over as they swap ideas for building a snack plate. I reach for these when I want something unexpected yet comforting for the holiday crowd. Familiar cookie shapes always get a little upgrade with a new twist.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cookies

Adorable Snowman Cookies

Christmas cookies with cherries and icing on a baking sheet. — Adorable Snowman Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Laughter often follows when this Adorable Snowman Cookies are served at parties. Some guests enjoy picking out their favorite snowman design before sneaking a cookie. I love how these treats gently blend creativity with sweetness. Playful shapes make munching together more fun.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

A stack of three round, golden-brown cookies with chocolate flecks and a sprinkle of salt on top, resting on a cooling rack with more cookies around them. — Sweet Salted Honey Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Cookie trays brighten up each time this Sweet Salted Honey Cookies comes around. People share memories of cozy nights as they reach for the next one. I put out extra whenever dessert runs low, since sweet-and-salty always hits the spot. These cookies offer just the right balance for the season.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Close-up of a marshmallow swirl cookie with a bite taken out, revealing its gooey interior and white filling. Other cookies are partially visible in the background. — Swirled Marshmallow Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful swirls catch curious eyes around this Swirled Marshmallow Cookies. Kids and adults circle back to grab another bite with just the right amount of chewiness. I appreciate how playful treats like these help break up the evening. Cookies filled with marshmallow are always a welcome surprise.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Ginger Bread House

Building this Ginger Bread House makes the whole room light up with excitement. Decorating turns into a group project as everyone chooses where each sweet piece belongs. I enjoy using this as a centerpiece before sharing stories and treats. Gingerbread houses give winter gatherings an extra dash of memory-making.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House

Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Rudolph cupcakes featuring swirled frosting, candy eyes, a red candy nose, and pretzel antlers mimic the playful charm of a reindeer. — Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sweet tables feel more cheerful with this Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes on display. People of all ages appreciate the cute design that makes every cupcake stand out. I like making treats that spark a conversation before anyone even takes a bite. Holiday cupcakes provide both joy and a quick snack.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Nostalgic moments come to life with this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie. Friends enjoy the chewy bite while swapping old stories over dessert. I reach for cookies like this to fill jars on the counter during long, chilly evenings. Oatmeal treats never go out of style.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Thumb Print Cookie

Holiday trays look brighter with this Thumb Print Cookie in the lineup. Every person gets to hunt for their favorite filling, making the plate a little adventure. I add these to the mix when I want a classic that offers variety. Thumb prints stand out in any winter cookie spread.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie

Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

A close-up of Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies, elegantly coated in white chocolate and adorned with colorful candy lights, red sprinkles, and chocolate pieces on top. — Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Guests smile as they find this Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies at the dessert station. Each one looks ready to hang, though nobody waits long to take a bite. I bring out these cookies for quick sharing and bright colors. Cookies that double as edible decorations are always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Butter Pecan Cookies

Close-up of several pecan cookies on a white surface, with pecan halves on top and crumbs scattered around. — Butter Pecan Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A warm, nutty aroma fills the room with this Butter Pecan Cookies stacked high. These cookies often draw people in for a second helping without much convincing. I lean on familiar flavors for a comforting treat during colder months. Warm cookies bring extra joy to gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies

Soft Marry Me Cookies

A stack of four chocolate chip cookies, with the top cookie partly broken, next to a metal container and a ceramic bowl on a light surface. — Soft Marry Me Cookies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Conversation gets sweeter after someone tries this Soft Marry Me Cookies. Chewy, rich flavors catch attention and keep folks coming back for more. I choose these when I need cookies that feel a little extra for the occasion. Treats like this turn snack time into something special.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies

Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Close-up of three stacked blondies with chocolate chips, resembling cake mix chocolate chip cookie bars, one of which has a bite taken out of it. — Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hands reach across the table for another piece of this Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Bars make for simple serving, cutting down on kitchen chaos during parties. I notice easy desserts tend to disappear first at events. Cookie bars offer comfort in just a few bites.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Enjoy our chocolate cherry cookies, each topped with a swirl of rich chocolate frosting and a vibrant red cherry. — Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Biting into this Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies feels like a holiday treat meant for the coldest nights. Friends comment on the unique combination as soon as the plate comes around. I use these for a bold option on the cookie tray. Chocolate and cherry together wake up the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Close-up view of a pile of Shortbread Cookies with visible small holes on the surface. — Buttery Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Plates look polished with this Buttery Shortbread Cookies set out next to a warm drink. Guests appreciate the crisp bite and simple sweetness that classics bring. I rely on shortbread to balance out colorful cookies and rich desserts. Something timeless like this never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Two round cookies, one red and one white, are decorated with white icing drizzles and white sprinkles, placed on a wooden surface. — Festive Candy Cane Oreos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cookie trays find a splash of color with this Festive Candy Cane Oreos at the center. Bites full of crunch and peppermint are gone before anyone knows it. I find these treats work well for snacks, gifts, or a quick holiday pick-me-up. Peppermint and chocolate always fit the season.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

A white cup of coffee on a saucer sits next to several powdered sugar cookies on a pink cloth, with one cookie partially eaten. — Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Gluten-free friends don’t miss out with this Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies. Edges have just the right bite while the center stays soft and flavorful. I serve these when I want everyone at the table to enjoy dessert. A chewy cookie can bring people together in the sweetest way.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Desserts get brighter with this Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Plates clear quickly as guests talk about their favorite frosting. I choose carrot cake cookies for a gentle spice in each batch. Bites of cake and cookie together make winter feel extra cozy.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

A festive cookie stack resembling a Christmas tree, decorated with green frosting and pink and white edible pearls. — Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Parties shine a little brighter with this Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies. Friends gather to check out each layer before picking a cookie. I make these showstopper cookies when I want to impress with a playful centerpiece. It’s just the thing for a cheerful winter night.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

A delectable close-up of a Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookie, crowned with a swirl of rich chocolate frosting, resting on a pristine white surface. — Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sweets lovers hurry over for this Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies. A thick, cake-like texture brings chocolate fans back for seconds. I enjoy baking these for anyone wanting that bakery feel at home. The rich flavor warms up any dessert spread.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

A group of cookies decorated with icing and snowflakes. — Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Trays turn playful with this Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies arranged for guests to pick and choose. Designs spark smiles and a little friendly competition to find the best one. I prepare extras for fun decorating sessions before dessert time. Cookies that look good make the night feel even better.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Close-up of spiral lemon poppy seed cookies drizzled with white icing and garnished with lemon zest. — Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

The scent of this Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies brings a gentle calm to winter gatherings. Each bite provides a tiny break from the crowd. I find lemon treats pair nicely with mugs of tea or hot chocolate. Lovely and light flavors stand out among heavier desserts.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close-up of a plate, filled with multiple golden-brown chocolate chip cookies. — Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

Friends hoping for a lighter option reach for this Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies again and again. The classic taste fits nearly any occasion, pleasing picky and adventurous eaters alike. I like to serve these as an easy pick when dietary needs come up. No one misses the eggs with these cookies around.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Easy Whoopie Pie

Chocolate whoopie pies with cream and powdered sugar. — Easy Whoopie Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Little hands and big appetites both go for this Easy Whoopie Pie at party time. Soft cookies filled with cream are perfect for passing around with other desserts. I see smiles every time someone tries one for the first time. A whoopie pie brightens up the whole dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie

Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Close up image of lemon blueberry muffin cookies on a wooden board. — Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

People searching for a bright treat often find this Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies first. Fresh flavors cut through richer sweets and keep things feeling light. I reach for these when the cookie table needs variety. The burst of berry flavor is always a welcome surprise in the middle of December.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

A close-up of a chocolate cookie with chocolate chips and small white marshmallows on top. — Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cold nights get an upgrade with this Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies. Bites of cocoa flavor remind everyone of warm drinks and winter fun. I keep these on hand for late-night movies or holiday gatherings. Chocolate cookies like this never last long.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Three sugar cookies stacked on top of each other. — Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Guests enjoy picking their favorite shapes from this Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter. The soft crumb makes each bite melt in your mouth and keeps the crowd happy. I choose these when I want a lighter take on tradition. Butter-free cookies let everyone grab a handful without worry.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Colorful ladybug-themed cookies with red tops and chocolate bases, decorated with googly eyes, sit on a bed of rainbow paper shreds. — Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Conversation perks up once this Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos shows up on the tray. Vibrant designs create a fun treat for any winter celebration. I bring these out for events where a little extra whimsy fits right in. Oreo cookies covered in chocolate always spark a lot of attention.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Green cookies topped with powdered sugar and red, green, and white candy shapes resembling trees and candy canes. — Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

The green color on this Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies is hard to miss at a dessert table. Guests compare crinkles and grab extras for later in the evening. I think they work great as a conversation starter or a snack just before bedtime. Crinkle cookies always bring cheer to a holiday crowd.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Cowboy Cookies

Two chocolate chip cookies with nuts stacked on top of each other in close-up view. — Cowboy Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cookie plates get a boost from this Cowboy Cookies filled with crunchy excitement. People like mixing and matching these with other desserts during game night or a holiday movie. I bake a batch for quick snacks when the oven is already hot. Each cookie brings a little extra happiness.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cookies

Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A close-up image shows a stack of four chocolate crinkle cookies covered in powdered sugar, revealing their cracked texture. — Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Everyone loves seeing this Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies covered in powdered sugar. Soft centers balance out the crackle on top for a dessert worth talking about. I pass these around when a classic cookie feels right. Simple recipes are sometimes the most impressive.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Close-up of spiral cookies with red jam filling on parchment paper, reminiscent of Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies, one partially eaten and surrounded by crumbs. — Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Childhood flavors return in this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie. Guests trade stories about school lunches and favorite childhood snacks with each bite. I like offering a cookie that feels both familiar and new. Peanut butter and jelly cookies earn rave reviews every time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

A hand holding a chocolate chip cookie on a cooling rack. — Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Plates clear out quickly with this Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies straight from the oven. People stack them up next to mugs of warm cider at the kitchen counter. I bake these for casual get-togethers and cold nights at home. Chewy cookies just fit this time of year.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Friends appreciate a homemade treat like this No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies without waiting for the oven. The sweet aroma pairs perfectly with coffee or hot cocoa. I turn to these when time is short and dessert still needs a spark. Quick cookies can show up at the last minute without stress.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Guests linger around this Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies for the spiral design and gentle crunch. Warm flavors make it feel like the holidays have truly arrived. I like that every cookie offers a playful surprise inside. Cinnamon swirls keep dessert interesting without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Three peanut butter sandwich cookies are stacked, with the top cookie showing a large bite taken out. Crumbs and cookie pieces are scattered on a parchment-lined surface. — Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cookie lovers who want a bit of bite always try this Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies. The filling brings big flavor even in the smallest snack. I layer these for an easy dessert that stacks nicely on a tray. Biscoff cookies surprise friends who enjoy something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Heart-shaped cookies partially dipped in red icing, decorated with pink, white, and silver sprinkles, including stars and hearts, scattered on a white surface. — Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hearts show up on dessert plates with this Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies in the mix. Rolling and decorating feels extra special during long December nights. I choose these for events where everyone wants a hand in cookie decorating. Simple shapes never run out of style at Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Soft Strawberry Cookies

Stacks of strawberry cookies, one with a bite taken out, are arranged next to a glass of milk and whole strawberries. — Soft Strawberry Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pops of pink peek out on a tray of this Soft Strawberry Cookies. Parties get a little sweeter and brighter each time these show up. I find kids reach for fruity flavors first during dessert hour. Strawberry cookies break up the usual line of chocolate treats.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry Cookies

Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Reindeer cookie pops in a cup. — Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Every hand tries to grab this Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops as soon as dessert is announced. Fun characters and simple shapes work for both kids and grown-ups. I set out extra pops so nobody misses out on the fun. Cookie pops double as dessert and a cheerful centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies with white icing, topped with small chocolate gingerbread men and snowman decorations, arranged on parchment paper. — Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hearty spices fill the air every time I pull out this Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies. Everyone can join dessert, regardless of diet, when these make an appearance. I like the bold flavor and classic look for a cookie tray. Vegan cookies let the whole table dig in without worry.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Soft Lemon Cookies

A stack of lemon cookies on a cooling rack. — Soft Lemon Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A citrusy twist comes through with this Soft Lemon Cookies. Friends often reach for these when the usual chocolate cookies start to feel expected. I bake lemon cookies for a burst of freshness at the end of the meal. Softness and bright flavor win new fans every year.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Four Christmas tree-shaped cookies with powdered sugar on a wooden board, decorated with red and white string. — Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Decorating and munching go hand in hand with this Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging. Beautiful designs turn the kitchen into a holiday workshop. I always make a few extra for nibbling once the decorations are finished. Hanging cookies create a memory that sticks well beyond dessert.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Three Santa Claus whoopie pies on a baking sheet. — Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A round of laughs follows the tray of this Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies. Frosted centers poke out from sweet cookies, making snack time lively and bright. I bring these out for family-style dessert bars and friendly gatherings. Whoopie pies with Santa faces are a sweet bonus at any winter event.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Sprinkles and bright frosting make this Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies the star of many dessert tables. People compare their decorating skills before taking a big bite. I join in to keep things low-key and fun. Decorating sugar cookies builds memories worth repeating each season.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies