33 Christmas Baking Ideas I Make Every Year

When the holidays roll around, these 33 baking favorites always make an appearance. They’re simple, comforting, and full of that unmistakable Christmas energy. Perfect for family gatherings, cookie swaps, or nights that call for dessert and twinkly lights. Traditions like these are what keep the season feeling special.

A gingerbread house decorated with white icing, star-shaped cookies, and candy, with artificial trees and a pine cone in the background. — Ginger Bread House. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close-up of several chocolate chip cookies on parchment paper, with one cookie broken in half to show the chocolate chips inside. — Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Sweet treats always bring people closer together. Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies have that cozy sweetness that makes everyone grab more than one. Each cookie stays fluffy with just the right chew. They never last long once they hit the table.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Buttery Coffee Cake

Close-up of eight square pieces of crumb cake with a textured, crumbly topping. — Buttery Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Morning or night, there’s always room for something warm and crumbly. Buttery Coffee Cake offers a rich texture that pairs perfectly with any drink. Each slice melts easily with every bite. It’s the kind of bake that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Coffee Cake

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.

Simple desserts sometimes leave the biggest impression. Sweet Salted Honey Cookies balance soft sweetness with a light crunch in every bite. Their flavor feels rich without being too much. They’re perfect for sharing during any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Close-up of sliced crumbly cakes topped with white icing. One piece is positioned vertically to show its texture. — Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few desserts hit that sweet spot between soft and chewy. Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies bring gentle warmth that pairs with their golden edges. They fill the air with a sweet aroma that feels familiar. Every square feels like a small piece of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Soft Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Candy Cane Cookies

Fun shapes make treats even more enjoyable. Candy Cane Cookies bring bright color and sweetness that fits any festive table. Their crisp bite contrasts nicely with their soft texture inside. They’re simple yet hard to forget once you try them.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Easy Christmas Dump Cake

A plate of fruit crumble topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, accompanied by a spoon. — Easy Christmas Dump Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. Easy Christmas Dump Cake brings layers of sweetness that blend together perfectly. It comes out warm and comforting every time. Sharing this dessert always brings smiles around the room.
Get the Recipe: Easy Christmas Dump Cake

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.

Bold flavors meet perfectly in a simple dessert. Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies mix sweetness with just the right amount of depth. Each bite feels balanced and smooth. They’re the kind of cookie people talk about long after they’re gone.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

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.

Playful desserts make gatherings more fun. Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes catch everyone’s attention before the first bite. Soft cake meets creamy topping in the best way. They bring a bit of joy to any table without trying too hard.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Chewy Sourdough Bagels

A plate with a bagel seasoned with seeds sits next to a baking tray holding more bagels, also topped with seeds. — Chewy Sourdough Bagels. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Homemade breads always make mornings brighter. Chewy Sourdough Bagels have that firm bite on the outside and soft middle that keeps you reaching for more. They pair with anything or stand perfectly on their own. Freshly baked ones always disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Sourdough Bagels

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.

Creative desserts add fun to any baking day. Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies turn something familiar into something special. Each one looks almost too cute to eat but tastes even better. They make any dessert spread feel complete.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop

Starbucks pink cake pops in a glass on a table. — Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Small bites can still bring big comfort. Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop offers soft sweetness covered in a smooth finish that melts easily. They’re perfect for parties, gifts, or just a quick treat. Everyone loves how simple yet indulgent they feel.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Starbucks Cake Pop

Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Chocolate cupcakes with white frosting and small pastel-colored marshmallows on top, arranged in a group against a neutral background. — Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm drinks get some competition with this treat. Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes combine deep sweetness with a soft, moist base that holds its shape well. The texture feels light but full at the same time. One bite feels just as comforting as a hot mug.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

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.

Sweet crunch meets smooth filling in this classic snack. Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies offer just the right mix of crisp and creamy. Their flavor feels comforting without being too sweet. They pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or even milk.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping, resting on parchment paper with a crumbly base visible. — Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic desserts can still surprise you with every bite. Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake blends smooth richness with a light, crisp finish on top. Each slice looks elegant but feels approachable. It’s a perfect choice when you want something impressive yet easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Chewy Chocolate Brownies

Close-up image of several chocolate brownies featuring a slightly crumbly texture and a sprinkling of coarse salt on top. — Chewy Chocolate Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing beats a homemade dessert done right. Chewy Chocolate Brownies stay soft inside with crisp edges that everyone fights over. Their deep chocolate scent fills the kitchen the moment they’re done. Sometimes keeping it simple is all you need.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Chocolate Brownies

Buttery Pecan Pie Bars

Two pecan-topped dessert bars are stacked on parchment paper, showing a dense, crumbly base and a caramelized nut topping. — Buttery Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dessert bars make sharing easy and fun. Buttery Pecan Pie Bars bring nutty sweetness that feels rich but not heavy. Each bite offers a mix of smooth and crisp texture. They’re perfect for any gathering or as a quick treat at home.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Pecan Pie Bars

Fudgy Pink Snoball Brownies

Three stacked slices of chocolate coconut candy, reminiscent of Pink Snoball Brownies, topped with pink shredded coconut. — Fudgy Pink Snoball Brownies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Colorful desserts always stand out on the table. Fudgy Pink Snoball Brownies combine soft chocolate layers with a light, playful topping. Each square looks fun and feels rich at the same time. They’re a cheerful finish to any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Pink Snoball Brownies

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.

Family baking days feel extra fun with creative treats on the counter. Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies stand tall and colorful, bringing smiles before anyone even takes a bite. Each layer adds a bit of charm to the table. They’re as fun to make as they are to eat.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops

Three chocolate cake pops shaped like reindeer, with pretzel antlers and red candy noses, on wooden sticks. — Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Treats that make people smile always steal the spotlight. Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops bring a playful touch that fits right into any holiday spread. They’re small, sweet, and easy to share with guests of all ages. Every bite feels like a little moment of fun.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Reindeer Cake Pops

Swirled Cinnamon Bread

Close-up of cinnamon swirl bread slices, showcasing a spiral pattern in the texture. — Swirled Cinnamon Bread. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few things compare to the smell of something warm baking in the kitchen. Swirled Cinnamon Bread fills the air with comfort and makes any meal feel special. Each slice is soft with a swirl that looks as good as it tastes. It’s perfect for breakfast or a late-night snack.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Cinnamon Bread

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.

Fun desserts often start with something familiar. Festive Candy Cane Oreos turn a classic cookie into something worth showing off. The mix of color and crunch always draws attention. They bring a bit of joy to any dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos

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.

Bright flavors can make dessert feel lighter and more exciting. Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies mix sweetness with a fresh twist that keeps each bite interesting. Their soft texture makes them perfect for sharing. These cookies never last long once served.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Sweet Christmas Poke Cake

A slice of festive Christmas Poke Cake with red swirls and pink frosting, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry, sits elegantly on a plate with a fork. — Sweet Christmas Poke Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Dessert spreads always feel complete with something that feeds a crowd. Sweet Christmas Poke Cake adds color and fun to any celebration. Its layers stay soft and full of flavor from top to bottom. Every slice looks cheerful and festive.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Christmas Poke Cake

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.

Simple desserts often leave the biggest mark. Buttery Shortbread Cookies crumble gently and melt right on the tongue. Their rich texture pairs well with coffee, tea, or cocoa. They’re easy to make but hard to forget.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies

Brownies with a cream cheese layer in the center are cut into squares and arranged on parchment paper. — Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Chocolate lovers always find a reason to smile with this dessert. Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies blend smooth layers for a soft, rich bite every time. The swirl pattern makes them look impressive on any platter. They’re the kind of brownies people ask for again and again.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Cream Cheese Brownies

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.

Baking turns into decorating fun with treats like these. Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging double as edible ornaments that add charm to any space. Their shapes make them a hit with both kids and adults. They’re just as enjoyable to look at as they are to eat.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Crusty Sourdough Bread

Sliced loaf of bread on a cutting board with a knife beside it. — Crusty Sourdough Bread. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Freshly baked bread brings comfort like nothing else. Crusty Sourdough Bread offers a golden crust with a soft center that feels homemade and hearty. It pairs perfectly with spreads or meals alike. Few things beat a warm loaf straight from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Crusty Sourdough Bread

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Familiar flavors can still surprise you when done right. Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies have that bakery-style look with a soft, chewy center. Each bite feels warm and comforting without being too sweet. They’re ideal for sharing or gifting to friends.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Showstopping Baked Alaska

A slice of baked Alaska with a toasted meringue exterior and green ice cream center being lifted from the dessert. — Showstopping Baked Alaska. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Impressive desserts often start with something unexpected. Showstopping Baked Alaska brings together smooth, cold sweetness with a light, warm shell. Its contrast makes it stand out at any gathering. It’s the kind of dessert that gets everyone talking.
Get the Recipe: Showstopping Baked Alaska

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.

Small touches make homemade treats feel personal. Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies bring charm and warmth to any celebration or gift box. Their crisp edges hold their shape beautifully. They’re simple, sweet, and made for sharing with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Close-up of two stacked pieces of chocolate cake drizzled with caramel sauce on a plate, with more cake in the background. — Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rich desserts always have a way of stealing the spotlight. Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake layers deep sweetness with smooth texture that feels balanced. Every slice offers a mix of comfort and indulgence. It’s perfect for any celebration or quiet night in.
Get the Recipe: Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

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.

Some cookies just make people fall in love at first bite. Soft Marry Me Cookies stay thick and tender, giving that homemade charm everyone enjoys. Their flavor feels warm and comforting without being too heavy. They’re the kind you bake once and remember forever.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies

Ginger Bread House

Family traditions feel special when everyone joins in. Ginger Bread House brings out creativity and laughter as each piece comes together. The build is as enjoyable as the final bite. It’s a sweet project that brings everyone closer around the table.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House