49 Christmas Cookie Ideas That Feel Like a Holiday Treat Ritual

Holiday baking gets easier when you have 49 different Christmas cookie ideas ready to try. Swapping a few new recipes into your usual mix is a great way to keep things interesting. Many families enjoy setting aside time for cookies, even on the busiest December weekends.

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.

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.

Friends light up once this S’mores Stuffed Cookies make their way to the dessert tray. Each bite brings winter campfire fun indoors, sparking laughter at holiday gatherings. People beg for seconds before the plate is empty. I love serving these for a cheerful twist on tradition.
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.

A fresh aroma fills the kitchen as soon as you open a batch of this Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies. Minty chocolate catches everyone’s attention during seasonal parties. Guests smile as they reach for just one more. I keep these in my rotation for crisp, cool snacking.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate 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.

Sweet and salty flavors combine in every bite of this Sweet Salted Honey Cookies, making snack time memorable. Guests often call these their favorite after sampling the unique blend. Each cookie draws compliments you didn’t expect. I bring a plate along for gatherings that need a talking point.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey 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.

Warm spices fill the air and bring memories of Christmas mornings with this Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies. Rich flavor invites conversation and sets a festive mood. Plates empty before the party is halfway done. I bake extra so everyone can take a few cookies home.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies

Holiday colors sparkle on dessert plates as this Candy Cane Cookies arrives. Each crunch keeps guests smiling and chatting. People often take a handful for the road. I turn to these cookies when the celebration needs a pop of peppermint.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Adorable Snowman Cookies

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

Grins break out as soon as you display this Adorable Snowman Cookies at your festive gathering. Playful designs catch the eyes of adults and kids alike. Cookies vanish in no time thanks to their charm. I always make extra to keep the fun going.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

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.

Spiced pumpkin meets sweet chocolate in every bite of this Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. The soft texture comforts guests in the chilliest weather. Friends praise the wintery flavor combo. I share these when the holidays call for both classic and new tastes.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip 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.

Each cookie tray pops with color once you add this Swirled Marshmallow Cookies. Guests reach for these fluffy treats to brighten up the dessert spread. People chat about the fun twist before grabbing seconds. I rely on marshmallow cookies for parties needing cheer.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow 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.

Winter celebrations take a sweet turn with every taste of this Soft Marry Me Cookies. Rich flavor and gentle texture make dessert time extra special. Comments about how memorable these cookies are fill the room. I bake this recipe when I want a guaranteed hit.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me 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.

Rich shortbread melts in your mouth, offering comfort once you try this Buttery Shortbread Cookies at a festive gathering. Flavors linger in the best way, leaving guests happy. Plates always clear quickly no matter the crowd. I favorites these for classic winter parties.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies

Close-up of a stack of swirled cookies with a light and dark pattern, showcasing a golden brown color. — Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layered pumpkin spice unfolds with every bite of this Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies. Seasonal flavors make people pause and come back for seconds. The aroma fills the house and sets a festive mood. I reserve these for holiday baking when warmth counts.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies

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.

Bright green crinkles on this Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies get people talking and laughing. Each cookie brings a playful spirit to Christmas gatherings. Guests snap photos before tasting the first bite. I make extra when fun is the main event.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Batches of this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie promise chewy comfort on the coldest December nights. Each mouthful combines classic oats with sweet chocolate. Plates get cleaned quickly as guests reach for more. I rely on this one for universal appeal year after year.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Close-up of a frosted cookie with a bite taken out, sprinkled with cinnamon, on a parchment surface. — Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Caramel sweetness joins pumpkin spice for a standout treat in this Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies. Friends ask for the recipe before the first cookie cools down. Compliments flow once the unique flavors are shared. I bake this whenever dessert needs a wow factor.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

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.

Vegan guests feel included thanks to this Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies at the holiday spread. Almond flavor brings something familiar, while chewiness adds comfort. People ask how you make them so soft. I love adding these to the mix for gatherings needing variety.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

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.

Kids and adults crowd around dessert plates for a glimpse of this Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies. Colorful decorations spark snapshots and happy chatter. Guests always reach for seconds. I bring out these ornament cookies for celebrations that call for bright fun.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament 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.

Fruit lovers perk up at the first taste of this Soft Strawberry Cookies during holiday snacking. Each bite is mild and comforting, fitting right in with winter treats. Compliments tend to linger as these cookies leave the plate. I like including these for a touch of springtime flavor.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry 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.

Busy hosts feel relief sharing this Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies at gatherings where dietary needs vary. Every cookie is soft and chocolatey, making guests feel cared for. Plates clear fast as people sample the new twist. I make extras so everyone gets their share.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

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.

Conversations pause as this Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos join the dessert table. The whimsical design turns dessert time into a photo opportunity. Guests indulge each bite with smiles. I use these for festive spreads when cuteness counts.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Close-up of six sugar-coated cookies on parchment paper. — Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Classic flavors meet new ideas in this Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies. No one guesses this treat is plant-based, as compliments pour in from cookie tasters. Friends try guessing your secret before asking for more. I keep vegan cookies on hand when I want inclusive holiday baking.
Get the Recipe: Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Ginger Bread House

Groups gather and get creative assembling this Ginger Bread House. Decorating brings out laughter and healthy rivalry, making holiday memories easy. Cookies become the foundation for fun. I always make time for gingerbread house building at winter parties.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House

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.

Snap and crunch combine for a standout bite in this Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies. Cookie lovers often comment on the bold flavor with each mouthful. It’s hard to keep these on the tray for long. I love bringing Biscoff cookies for gatherings that need something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Quick treats keep energy high, especially with this No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies. The nutty taste makes a pleasant surprise during Christmas snacking. People always ask how you made them in so little time. I favor this recipe for nights when the oven needs a break.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan 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.

Hot chocolate lovers find happiness in every bite of this Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies. Cocoa flavor delivers winter comfort that feels just right. Friends recommend these for dessert tables needing chocolate. I bake extra for cold evenings in December.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Thumb Print Cookie

Festive trays look brighter with this Thumb Print Cookie in the lineup. Each bite invites chatter about favorite flavors and fillings. Guests reach for another before their first is gone. I serve cookies for easy holiday snacking.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

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

Laughter seems louder as soon as bright red Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies make their debut. Soft cake and creamy filling bring joy to the dessert hour. Guests marvel at the creative look. I bake this for Christmas fun that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

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.

The lively taste in these Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies draws immediate chatter. Guests are surprised by the fruity pop inside each cookie. Bright colors help turn the dessert table into a showstopper. I choose muffin cookies for holiday brunches needing cheerful bites.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Easy Whoopie Pie

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

Dessert becomes easy and fun with this Easy Whoopie Pie at your holiday gathering. Soft cake and creamy centers make guests smile every time. Second helpings appear almost without asking. I include this for parties needing quick sweet treats.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie

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.

Chocolate fans find their cravings answered in seconds with this Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies. Rich cake texture catches compliments from every guest. People share their favorite chocolate memories over these cookies. I serve them when simple dessert just won’t do.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake 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.

Allergy-friendly treats like this Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter fit perfectly into festive dessert trays. Each bite offers gentle sweetness and classic texture. Guests appreciate the mindful recipe. I love serving these at gatherings with lots of dietary needs.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

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.

Aroma fills the air whenever this Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies emerges from the oven. Crisp texture and fresh citrus create a memorable treat. People often remark on the unique twist. I choose cookies for gatherings when flavor variety matters.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

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.

Familiar comfort shines on tables with this Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies at the snack station. Melted chocolate and gentle chew win over any crowd. Second helpings are a given. I always bake these for events where only classic treats will do.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

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

Smiles stretch wide when this Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops lands on the dessert tray. Fun shapes encourage photo ops and make snacking extra special. Guests look for one to save for later. I make these pops for playful Christmas parties.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

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.

Each bite of this Butter Pecan Cookies brings roasted flavor and gentle sweetness to the winter feast. Comments about the rich base fill up the room. Cookie jars never stay full for long. I favor butter pecan for cozy holiday nights.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies

Soft Lemon Cookies

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

Lighter flavors join the festive menu with these Soft Lemon Cookies on the dessert table. Gentle tang delivers a pleasant surprise. Guests try more than one, chatting about cookies from childhood. I prefer cookies for gatherings wanting something bright.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies

Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Close-up of a stack of vibrant blue Cookie Monster cookies with Oreo centers and chocolate chips. The cookies are cracked open, revealing the Oreo cookies inside. — Fun Cookie Monster Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Children run up laughing at the first sight of this Fun Cookie Monster Cookies on the tray. Vivid colors and playful design keep everyone entertained. Cookies vanish fast during busy parties. I bake cookies to guarantee grins.
Get the Recipe: Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

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.

Tables get a pop of holiday cheer with this Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies. Tall cookie stacks spark surprise and admiration. People buzz with excitement over the clever decoration. I keep these handy when holiday spirits need a boost.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Close-up of freshly baked cookies with nuts on top, arranged closely together. — Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Guests can’t get enough of this Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans at cozy gatherings. Spiced pumpkin and nutty crunch make dessert feel special. Compliments fill up the conversation easily. I rely on cookies for comforting winter evenings.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

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 takes on a whole new level with this Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging. Shaped cookies add fun and flair to Christmas tree trimming. People pause to admire the sweet details. I offer these at parties focused on making new holiday memories.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

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.

Plant-based festivities get a boost from these Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies at the dessert table. Warm spices hint at tradition while staying inclusive. Guests return for seconds, not realizing these cookies are vegan. I bake cookies for Christmas celebrations looking for variety.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread 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.

Old-school favorites take on new life in this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie. Creamy and fruity layers mean everyone talks about dessert. Guests are curious about how you captured the flavor so well. I turn to this when classic combos need a playful twist.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

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.

Festive shapes set the stage for cheerful snacking with this Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies. Each cookie spreads winter joy across the table. Guests share smiles and warm remarks. I bring out cookies for celebrations centered on love and togetherness.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

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

Hungry eyes light up at the colors packed onto this Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies. Designs keep guests talking, while flavors offer comfort and tradition. Cookie trays empty out quickly. I always decorate plenty for parties filled with creativity.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Dessert tables gain a touch of elegance with this Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies. Each bite pairs rich chocolate with creamy chips. Friends rave about the special combination. I serve cookies for the wow factor at holiday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Close-up of a classic peanut butter cookie with the iconic crisscross pattern on top, nestled among a delightful batch of similar peanut butter cookies. — Soft Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic flavor and soft texture make this Soft Peanut Butter Cookies an instant favorite. People reminisce about childhood snacks as they reach for another. The sweet aroma turns any gathering into a happy one. I bake extra for events needing comfort.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

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

Christmas activities grow more fun with this Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies on hand. Bright colors and cheerful shapes draw guests together. Conversations spark about decorating techniques. I provide these cookies for memorable, laughter-filled gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar 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.

Desserts stand out with this Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies as the centerpiece. Rich cocoa pairs with crunchy edges for a festive treat. Guests reach in quickly for a taste. I bake these cookies for those days needing a true classic for the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Unique flavors surprise even seasoned cookie lovers with this Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Guests marvel at the texture and sweet touch on top. Compliments roll in fast while dessert is served. I add cake cookies for parties wanting something special and new.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Indulgence takes over holiday tables with every bite of this Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Juicy bursts and bold cocoa ensure dessert feels extra festive. Plates always need refilling. I bring cookies for elegant snacking year after year.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies