51 Cookie Ideas People Use to Fill Gift Tins Before Christmas

Busy December days become more fun when you have 51 cookie ideas ready for those holiday gift tins. Friends, neighbors, and coworkers all appreciate something homemade and thoughtful. Picking a few favorites helps keep holiday baking simple and stress-free. Rotating different recipes lets everyone get a bite of something new each year.

Adorable Snowman Cookies

Each bite of this Adorable Snowman Cookies recipe adds charm to holiday cookie trays. Kids and adults share smiles as they see cheerful faces on every treat. I notice these disappear quickly at Christmas events. Unique decoration always gets people talking and reaching for another cookie.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Layers of color make these Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies a bright spot on winter dessert tables. The stacked design draws attention at parties and gift exchanges. I find piece after piece gone by the end of the night. People ask how the trees look so neat and festive every year.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Cool, chocolatey flavor makes these Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies perfect for the holiday season. The smooth texture keeps guests nibbling even after dinner is long over. I’ve brought these to December gatherings and watched them vanish first. Friends often come back for the recipe before the party ends.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Holiday traditions get a boost from this Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies recipe, with each cookie looking like a tiny work of art. Decorated with care, they stand out at any celebration. I make extras for sharing because everyone wants to give them a try. Colorful frosting seems to draw the biggest crowds.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Cozy spices fill the house while making this Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies recipe a winter staple. Warm memories and gentle sweetness come with every bite. I always save a few for myself before serving to guests. A plate of these gets plenty of attention at December parties.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Melt-in-your-mouth texture keeps these Buttery Shortbread Cookies at the top of every Christmas cookie list. Simple shapes allow for creative decorating, no matter who’s helping. I notice they pair nicely with a cup of cocoa on cold nights. The rich flavor brings guests back for more.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Swirls of fluffy marshmallow set this Swirled Marshmallow Cookies recipe apart from the usual holiday treats. The eye-catching design always picks up compliments at gift exchanges. I’ve found they’re especially fun for cookie parties with friends. A unique blend of softness and sweetness never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Winter flavors shine in this S’mores Stuffed Cookies recipe, offering the excitement of campfire treats indoors. Every gooey center brings a happy surprise. I hear friends rave about the combination at December swaps. Second helpings are standard as guests keep returning for another taste.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Festive gatherings feel brighter with this Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies recipe. Soft pies and fun decorations bring cheer to dessert tables everywhere. I like making these as a showstopper for holiday events. Laughter always follows when people see Santa’s jolly face.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Cozy up with this Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies recipe whenever chilly weather hits. Soft, chocolatey bites call to guests after a long day in the snow. I often serve them warm for even more comfort. Every batch disappears fast thanks to nostalgic flavor and a gooey bite.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Plenty of crunch and shimmering filling make these Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies a new favorite for December. Unique flavor keeps cookie fans curious at every exchange. I always tuck a few into gift tins just for fun. Surprised faces usually follow the first bite of something different.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Soft Lemon Cookies

Gentle citrus flavors brighten up winter with this Soft Lemon Cookies recipe. The light, fluffy interior makes these perfect for sharing and gifting. I enjoy including them in holiday tins when something fresh is needed. Positive reactions come quickly from those trying lemon cookies for the first time.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies

Christmas colors swirl through this Candy Cane Cookies recipe, bringing peppermint magic to cookie plates. Each cookie pulls guests toward the dessert table with a festive twist. I get requests for these at every annual swap. Unique design plus bold flavor turn them into a seasonal highlight.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Childhood memories echo in every bite of this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie. The familiar pairing always brings smiles at holiday gatherings. I make these for gift tins so each gets a nostalgic touch. It’s fun to watch reactions and hear people guess the flavor.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Cozy flavors and hearty bites make this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie crisp on the outside, soft on the inside. Crowds flock to these at winter parties. I find oatmeal cookies blend well with chocolate for extra comfort. They’re always a safe pick for gift baskets and swaps.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Bold color and sweet bites give this Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies serious holiday flair. Red cookies turn dessert tables cheerful and bright. I rely on these for swaps where a pop of color is welcome. Curious smiles appear when the first bite melts in your mouth.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate lovers get their wish with this Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe during December. Every cookie bursts with deep chocolate flavor, perfect for cozy evenings. I slip these into tins whenever I want to impress. Friends rarely leave before grabbing another one.
Get the Recipe: Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Carrot Cake Cookies

All the best flavors of classic cake fit conveniently in this Carrot Cake Cookies recipe. Soft, chewy texture makes every batch worth sharing. I pass these around at gatherings when a change of pace is needed. New fans always find their way back to the tray.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Cookies

Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Everyone feels included with these Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies, which arrives full of winter warmth. The inviting scent draws attention at cookie exchanges. I love seeing friends enjoy options that fit any diet. Bright, spiced flavor finishes by keeping spirits high.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Bright green color grabs attention in this Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies recipe. Playful design makes them a conversation starter at any Christmas bash. I like baking extras for exchanges with the neighborhood crowd. Bites of sweetness turn even the “Grinches” into cookie fans.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Quick treats come together with this No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies recipe, which always saves time on busy December nights. The natural sweetness keeps people interested. I pop them into tins for easy gifting when baking time runs short. Guests appreciate something different from the classic lineup.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Playful blue colors make this Fun Cookie Monster Cookies recipe a favorite among younger guests. These cookies brighten up winter snack tables in an instant. I love the reactions when someone spots those eyes staring up. Eating dessert becomes a real event with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Swirls of sweetness take the spotlight in this Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies recipe. The pattern stands out, making gift tins extra special. I make these for holiday baskets so every recipient gets something eye-catching. Cinnamon scent puts everyone in the holiday spirit right away.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Nutty aromas and a chewy bite greet anyone trying this Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies recipe. It’s a welcome addition for gatherings with lots of dietary needs. I take these to parties just to see the enjoyment spread. People love knowing every option has big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Holiday tables light up with this Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops recipe. Comical shapes and cheerful eyes make them an instant favorite. I serve these for parties with plenty of kids attending. Pops get picked first from dessert trays, every single time.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

These soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter keep things light while remaining just as festive as the classics. Soft centers mean plenty of happy cookie fans. I include these in tins for those who prefer lighter treats. Surprise reactions usually greet every holiday batch.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Tart and sweet flavors combine in this Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies recipe. Each bite adds freshness to the wintry cookie spread. I bring them to swaps when traditional flavors need a burst of sunshine. Colorful pieces catch everyone’s attention with just a glance.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Comfort classics never go out of style, and these Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies prove it. Gooey centers bring joy to the holiday season year after year. I find these are gone first at every event I attend. Extra cookies always travel well for homemade gifts.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ginger Bread House

Decorating becomes a group activity with this Ginger Bread House, filling homes with creative energy. The finished house doubles as a centerpiece until it’s time to break pieces off. I enjoy making these for family-friendly fun throughout December. Unique decorations always earn a few grins and lots of photos.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House

Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

All the richness of cake fits in these Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. The touch of frosting adds extra joy to cookie trays. I share these for occasions needing something extra memorable. Every cookie leaves guests happy and asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

No eggs needed, but these Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies still delivers all the sweet comfort you’d expect. Moist texture keeps everyone coming back until the plate is gone. I like offering these for crowds with special diet needs. Grateful smiles always follow the first taste.
Get the Recipe: Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies

Soft Marry Me Cookies

Love gets baked right in with this Soft Marry Me Cookies recipe, which never fails to earn compliments. Each batch disappears almost before it cools. I notice friends quietly reach for a second helping at every holiday function. Romantic spirit and sweetness come together in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies

Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Honey and a pinch of salt work together in this Sweet Salted Honey Cookies recipe to create balance. Every cookie gets a golden finish perfect for winter warmth. I include them when cookie tins need something unique. Curious palates circle back for a second taste.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Bars cut neatly for packing, thanks to this Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars recipe. The chewy middle makes them especially gift-worthy. I add these to holiday parcels for extra variety. There’s always someone who asks about the secret to keeping them so soft.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Ornaments and snacks combine in these Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging. Friends love admiring and munching them at holiday parties. I hang a few on the tree for playful decoration. The smiles are as plentiful as the cookies, especially among children hunting for dessert.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Deep chocolate flavor marks this Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies recipe. Each cookie delivers rich taste people talk about long after the season ends. I send these along with December gifts every year. Friends tend to ask for more well before next Christmas rolls around.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Soft Strawberry Cookies

Light pink color makes these Soft Strawberry Cookies a thoughtful touch for wintry trays. Gentle berry flavor stands out among stronger treats. I serve these for gatherings where something fruity is expected. The cheery hue brings joy along with delicious sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry Cookies

Easy Whoopie Pie

Soft rounds and creamy filling define this Easy Whoopie Pie recipe, sure to stand out at neighborhood swaps. Biting in draws plenty of grins. I select these for events needing a familiar, playful treat. Every pie goes quickly, leaving guests wishing for a few more.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie

Cowboy Cookies

Oats, chocolate, and crunch join forces in this Cowboy Cookies recipe. Every batch draws the attention of hungry snackers. I bring these for casual swaps since friends always ask for the recipe. Hearty bites make them perfect for wintertime gifting.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cookies

Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Crackled tops catch the eye in this Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies recipe, hinting at gooey centers inside. Cocoa-rich flavor brings true comfort on cold December nights. I pack them in tins for maximum appeal. Every cookie seems to vanish fast at holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Light texture and sweet notes make these Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies perfect for assorted tin mixes. No one misses the dairy, even after grabbing seconds. I pick these for parties where everyone wants a little something. The simple look hides just how rich the flavor can be.
Get the Recipe: Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Cheerful spots decorate this Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos recipe, drawing grins from both kids and adults. Bright colors make dessert trays lively and fun. I place these out for neighborhood gifting and swap parties. Playful smiles always follow whoever picks up a ladybug.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Peppermint meets crunch in this Festive Candy Cane Oreos recipe. The swirl of colors adds something special to holiday plates. I choose these for cookie exchanges where unique ideas shine. Guests remember them even after the season wraps up.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Artistic flair comes through in this Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies recipe. Every cookie shows off personality, thanks to creative frosting and decorations. I find friends of all ages enjoy making and eating them together. Sharing a tray brings smiles to every Christmas gathering.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Butter Pecan Cookies

Toasted nuts and sweet dough define this Butter Pecan Cookies recipe for December gifting. Guests pick these from a cookie mix first. I share them at parties where winter flavors are in focus. People quickly spread the word after trying just one.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies

Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Cute shapes and gentle flavor make these Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies a favorite for sharing during December. Tender texture matches the happy holiday feeling. I wrap these up for quick gifting. Every batch brings quiet joy with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Deep cocoa notes and cherries fuse in this Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies recipe. Each bite receives praise from anyone lucky enough to try one. I make sure these go into every holiday tin. Friends nearly always ask for more after the first taste.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Winter trays feel brighter with this Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies recipe, balancing citrus with floral tea notes. It’s a fresh surprise for anyone looking for something new. I pick these for gourmet-style gift baskets. People are often eager to enjoy a second cookie.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Classic peanut butter warmth makes these Soft Peanut Butter Cookies welcome at any December celebration. Tender texture pairs wonderfully with milk or cocoa. I bake these for events where comfort food shines. Smiles start with the aroma before the tray even gets passed around.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Cannoli Cookies

Inspired by the bakery classic, this Cannoli Cookies recipe draws eyes with every sprinkle. Subtle richness keeps chatter going. I add these to dessert tables that need a little extra flair. Every batch disappears before the party really starts.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cookies

Thumb Print Cookie

Jams shine in the center of this Thumb Print Cookie recipe, giving guests a sweet surprise. Colorful centers brighten up any holiday tray. I bring these for easy gifting and grab-and-go events. Surprised looks follow as people sample the hidden fruit.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie