49 Christmas Cookie Ideas That Fit Busy December Schedules
Finding time for holiday baking gets easier when 49 Christmas cookie ideas work around your busiest days. December comes packed with to-dos, but you don’t have to let baking fall off the list. Choosing a recipe or two that fit your available time helps keep traditions alive.

Adorable Snowman Cookies

Smiles always pop up when a plate of these Adorable Snowman Cookies sits on the table. Frosted faces and sweet decorations add a playful, wintery charm to any December gathering. I find these bring out the creative side in everyone who helps decorate. People tend to pick their favorite snowman before taking a bite.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Something special happens when you share these Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies at a holiday party. Rich, cake-like cookies disappear in a flash, especially when the chocolate flavor hits. There’s some magic in every soft, thick bite that makes guests reach for another. I’ve had people ask for the recipe every single time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies
Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

A cool minty aroma fills the kitchen the moment you bake these Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies. There’s no resisting that crisp winter feeling paired with smooth chocolate. Crunchy edges and chewy centers make everyone curious for the first bite. Folks find it tough to pick a favorite among holiday cookies when they appear.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Warmth and cheer fill the room when someone brings out this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie. The cookie feels both cozy and familiar, working perfectly for any December treat tray. People often ask for seconds to go with their cocoa or coffee. I notice they disappear faster than expected, so baking extra is always smart.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie
Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Beautiful patterns swirl across the top of these Swirled Marshmallow Cookies, inviting everyone to try just one. Pillowy softness meets gooey sweetness in every bite, making the cookies popular at any winter gathering. Eyes light up when the cookie plate arrives. These treats are always a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies
Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Bright colors and playful details make these Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos a standout on any cookie tray. Their fun appearance draws smiles and curious glances, leading to little hands reaching in quickly. I’ve noticed people talk about these long after the plate is gone. Bringing whimsy into the season never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos
Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Love takes center stage with these Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies. Each cookie delivers a tender crumb and a hint of sweetness, perfect for winter celebrations or as a thoughtful gift. People can’t help but notice the extra care in each shape. Sharing these feels like passing along a little joy.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies
Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

December parties feel brighter with chewy, spiced flavors from these Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Moist centers and creamy topping create an instant favorite, especially during chilly weather. I like sneaking one for breakfast since they taste just as good in the morning.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

You can almost see excitement build when a tray of these Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies arrives at a gathering. Sprinkles and vibrant colors turn dessert into a full-on celebration. Guests love decorating them just as much as eating them. Bringing these out always feels like starting a new tradition.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies
Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Few desserts win hearts faster than these Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies. The familiar aroma fills a kitchen with warmth as cookies bake, drawing everyone to gather around. Even on the busiest December days, people can’t resist that classic, ooey-gooey bite. My favorite tip is to make an extra batch for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
Cowboy Cookies

Hearty, chunky, and packed with all sorts of good things, this Cowboy Cookies recipe fits right into December cravings. Every cookie feels like three treats in one, keeping snackers interested. Folks think these cookies are perfect for sharing in a big group. They usually vanish fast, so keeping the jar full becomes a serious task.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cookies
Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Deep cocoa flavor and snowy sugar bring excitement to this Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies recipe. The crackled tops look almost too perfect to eat, yet plates empty quickly. I always keep a few aside for hot chocolate breaks. A sprinkle of powdered sugar makes each cookie feel extra festive for the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Swirls of cinnamon sweetness create a warming treat in these Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies. There’s something comforting about that hint of spice on a cold December day. Guests are drawn to the playful look and rich aroma. Baking these at home feels like a bakery moment in your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies
Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Bright colors, cheerful shapes, and a sweet sparkle make these Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies the centerpiece of any holiday table. People love showing off their decorating skills before snagging a cookie. I find these always spark conversations and memories about other winters. Every cookie brings a little creative fun to the season.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies
Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you need a treat that works for everyone, these Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies never disappoint. Soft, chewy centers make it hard to believe there are no eggs involved at all. Snackers of all ages find plenty to enjoy. I keep this recipe handy for last-minute baking with friends.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies
Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Laughter travels around the room the second you serve these Fun Cookie Monster Cookies. Bright blue, playful faces stand out against other holiday cookies. Kids and adults alike love reaching for one. This recipe turns ordinary afternoons into memorable December moments.
Get the Recipe: Fun Cookie Monster Cookies
Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

For a cookie that feels gentle yet full of flavor, this Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter recipe comes through in a pinch. Sweetness shines in every soft bite, without the heaviness of traditional recipes. They’re perfect for busy holiday schedules when you want something simple. I like making these as an easy weekend project.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter
Buttery Shortbread Cookies

A gentle crumble and rich taste set these Buttery Shortbread Cookies apart from every other treat. Their sweet aroma hints at holiday traditions and quieter moments with a cup of tea. I often pack up a few for gifts or lunchbox surprises. Classic never goes out of style during December.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

You can’t miss the vivid color and melt-in-your-mouth texture of these Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies. Every bite brings a hint of classic red velvet paired with rich sweetness. Dessert tables feel brighter when they make an appearance. They’re a showstopper at any holiday gathering.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies
Soft Lemon Cookies

Light bursts of citrus flavor brighten up the cookie tray with these Soft Lemon Cookies. Tender and fluffy, these treats offer a break from rich winter desserts. People are always surprised by their soft texture. Having a few of these nearby helps balance out all the chocolatey favorites.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies
S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Fire up cozy winter memories with a batch of these S’mores Stuffed Cookies. Gooey centers and crisp edges have everyone thinking about snowy outdoor fun. The sweet surprise inside draws people in for that first bite. I notice these rarely make it past dessert time without disappearing.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies
Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Gentle sweetness and a perfect, tender crumb make these Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies a must-try for anyone. These cookies melt quietly in your mouth, suiting both vegans and non-vegans alike. Decorate with frosting or sprinkles for festive color. I like how these bring everyone together no matter their preferences.
Get the Recipe: Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies
Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Spiced aroma fills the air as you open a container of these Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies. Crispy biscuits and a creamy middle create a snack that’s perfect for December snacking. Guests share stories as they nibble, making these cookies part of the seasonal fun. Each sandwich treats you to a new favorite pairing.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies
Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Winter feels extra magical when you spot Festive Candy Cane Oreos on the table. Red and white swirls, crunchy candy pieces, and a touch of whimsy dress up these treats for December. People love the way these stand out at dessert spreads. Bringing a box to a party always feels just right.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos
Butter Pecan Cookies

Nutty aromas fill the kitchen during the last few minutes before Butter Pecan Cookies finish baking. Richness meets a warm crunch, perfect for moments curled up on chilly nights. Even the pickiest snackers want one. These cookies remind everyone of classic winter celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies
Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Bittersweet flavor explodes from every bite of these Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies. The cookies are thick, gooey, and filled with enough chocolate to please even the most dedicated dessert lover. I always save one as a midnight snack. People start asking for these once December rolls around.
Get the Recipe: Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Subtle tea fragrance meets a citrusy burst in these Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies. The flavors feel fresh and mellow, balancing out heavier treats at your cookie exchange. Guests pick these out whenever they want something different. Fresh lemon adds a gentle spark to classic December flavors.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies
Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Memories of snowy evenings come back fast with the warm aroma of these Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies. Soft chocolatey cookies topped with that marshmallow twist are real winter crowd-pleasers. Hot cocoa lovers often double up with a mug in hand. I save a few of these to enjoy by the fire later.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies
Soft Strawberry Cookies

Pops of pink and soft texture make these Soft Strawberry Cookies stand out among classics. A fruity surprise breaks up the heavier flavors of December sweets. These work especially well as part of a colorful tray. Kids often reach for these before anything else.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry Cookies
Candy Cane Cookies

Classic red and white stripes bring instant cheer when you serve Candy Cane Cookies in December. The sweet mint flavor feels just right for winter gatherings. Everyone loves twisting the dough into festive shapes. I look forward to gifting these to neighbors year after year.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies
Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Playful toppings and shiny colors give these Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies their holiday sparkle. Each one looks like it belongs right on your tree, but tastes even better. Friends snap pictures before trying their first bite. Bringing these to a party always gets everyone talking.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies
Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Busy December nights make these Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars a baking lifesaver. Quick prep means dessert comes together with almost no effort at all. Soft bars get plenty of compliments without any fuss. I bake these when time is short but a homemade treat is needed.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Bright icing and fun decorations let you turn these Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging into edible ornaments. Stringing them up brings extra joy to decorating traditions. People can’t resist tasting one before all the trees are hung. Each bite brings back sweet December memories.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging
Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Chocolate antlers and red noses turn these Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes into a playful holiday treat. Kids try to pick out the one with the silliest face first. A plateful adds plenty of cheer to December celebrations. These always spark laughter before the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes
Ginger Bread House

Building a Ginger Bread House is more than just dessert, it’s a holiday ritual for many. Frosting, candies, and creative touches transform snacks into art. Gathering around to decorate brings people closer, sparking plenty of new memories. You might end up admiring your creation almost as much as eating it.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House
Soft Marry Me Cookies

Lacy edges and an almost melt-away texture make these Soft Marry Me Cookies so memorable. The mix of sweetness and warmth draws plenty of compliments during cookie swaps. Anyone who tries one usually comes back for a second. Sharing these might just become your new tradition.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies
Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Bright green and dusted with sugar, these Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies bring a fun twist to holiday dessert tables. Surprised giggles come with every plate thanks to their playful look. Each crinkle hides a soft bite within. Having these nearby seems to put everyone in a better mood.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies
Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Smiling Santas in dessert form make these Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies a centerpiece at even the busiest December get-togethers. Soft cookies and fluffy filling give you a double treat with each bite. You’ll see people snapping photos before anyone tries one. Sharing these gets everyone in the holiday spirit.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies
No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Quick, simple, and packed with winter flavor, these No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies deliver big results without an oven. Maple brings a warm, comforting note to every bite. I keep a few handy for afternoons when baking isn’t on the plan. December feels easier with these in the freezer.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies
Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Each bite of these Sweet Salted Honey Cookies offers a little surprise from the mix of sweet and salty flavors. Tender cookies like these just feel cozy when the winter wind rattles the windows. Friends find them perfect for a holiday treat that isn’t too heavy. These are always quick to disappear from the cookie tin.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies
Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Playful faces and easy-to-carry handles make these Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops the hit of holiday parties. Kids love showing off each cookie before having their treat. Bright colors and cheerful details make them unforgettable. I look forward to making these every December as a sweet project.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops
Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Deep chocolate paired with tart fruit gives Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies a grown-up vibe, while still suiting everyone. The unique flavor combo always draws questions at the dessert table. People ask if there are more hidden away. One always seems to be just right as an after-dinner snack.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Easy Whoopie Pie

A soft exterior and creamy center make these Easy Whoopie Pie perfect for busy baking days. The hand-held size brings a touch of fun to any December cookie plate. Friends often reach for these first. I like having a small kitchen win on rushed holiday afternoons.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie
Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Nutty notes and a chewy bite turn these Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies into an unexpected favorite at gatherings. Even those who usually skip vegan recipes feel tempted by their rich texture. Sprinkling a few on dessert tables gives everyone something to talk about. These cookies make standing out simple.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies
Thumb Print Cookie

Each Thumb Print Cookie invites a bit of decorating fun and holds a hidden gem of fruity color. Kids enjoy pressing the center and picking a flavor for each one. Taking a bite brings back all those cozy winter memories. Holiday trays feel incomplete without these.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie
Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

A blend of warming spices fills the air when Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies hit the oven rack. Rich scents make everyone gather in the kitchen as these treats bake. I lean on this recipe whenever plant-based friends come over. The cheerful shapes win smiles at winter gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies
Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Stacked high and touched with a bit of sparkle, these Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies turn dessert into art. Crunchy edges and colorful decorations bring extra wow factor to holiday trays. Everyone reaches for one to admire before eating. Building these cookies may become your favorite new holiday ritual.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies
Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Fresh fruit and bright flavors combine for a December treat in these Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies. Each bite feels like a break from heavier winter desserts. Guests are curious about the mashup of muffin and cookie. I tend to tuck a few away for a morning surprise.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies
Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Familiar aromas of ginger and cinnamon signal the holidays with these Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies. Tender texture and cozy flavors never go unnoticed. Decorating these together brings out plenty of laughter. December wouldn’t feel quite as special without them.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies
