35+ Best Christmas Cookie Recipes For The Holidays

It’s finally time for Christmas cookies! Whether you’re baking for friends and family or looking for a festive treat to enjoy on your own, these easy Christmas cookie recipes are sure to spread holiday cheer.

From classic favorites like chocolate chip and Christmas sugar cookies to unique creations like Christmas kitchen sink cookies, these recipes are easy to make and perfect for any holiday gathering. Plus, by stocking up on simple ingredients like vanilla extract, confectioners sugar, and molasses, you can easily whip up a batch of cookies in no time.

So, preheat your oven, grab that baking sheet, and get ready to bake some of the best Christmas cookies you’ve ever tasted.

Ferrero rocher cookies

Add a touch of luxury to your Christmas cookie tray with these Ferrero rocher cookies.

Made with chewy hazelnut chocolate cookies, these treats are filled with chopped hazelnuts and topped with a dollop of Nutella. Perfect for indulging in the holiday season.

We love: Ferrero Rocher Cookies (by Rich and Delish)

Italian anise Christmas cookies

These Italian Christmas cookies are a must-have for any Christmas cookie tray. With a moist center and a delicious anise flavor, they are a unique and tasty addition to your holiday baking.

The anise extract is used in both the cookie dough and the glaze, ensuring a strong flavor throughout. Top with nonpareils for a festive touch.

We love: Good Italian Anise Christmas Cookies Recipe (by No Plate Like Home)

Easy cool whip cookies

These easy Cool Whip cookies are the perfect Christmas cookie recipe for those who want a quick and delicious treat.

With only four ingredients, including your favorite boxed cake mix, they are easy to make and can be ready in no time.

Plus, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days, making them a great option for holiday gatherings or as a homemade gift for loved ones.

We love: Easy Cool Whip Cookies (by Girl. Inspired.)

Turtle thumbprint cookies

These Turtle Thumbprint Cookies are a crowd-pleasing Christmas cookie with a chocolatey cocoa base, a creamy caramel filling, and a crunchy pecan coating.

They’re one of my favorite easy Christmas cookies!

Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they are the perfect addition to any holiday cookie spread.

We love: Turtle Thumbprint Cookies (by Lil Luna)

Biscoff butter cookies

Add some festive flavor to your Christmas cookie lineup with these Biscoff butter cookies.

Loaded with Biscoff spread, cinnamon, and chocolate chips, these cookies are sure to be a hit with the whole family.

With a simple and straightforward recipe, you can easily whip up a batch of these indulgent treats to enjoy during the holiday season.

We love: Biscoff butter cookies (by Spatula Desserts)

Pistachio and raspberry thumbprint

These pistachio and raspberry thumbprint cookies are a delicious and festive addition to any Christmas cookie platter.

The buttery shortbread base, rolled in pistachios and filled with tangy raspberry jam, is the perfect balance of flavors.

Plus, the simple pistachio cookie recipe and beautiful presentation make them a great option for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges.

We love: Pistachio and Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies (by Butternut Bakery)

Christmas kitchen sink cookies

These Christmas kitchen sink cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday baking list.

Packed with festive ingredients like M&M’s, pretzels, potato chips, and sprinkles, they bring together sweet and salty flavors in every bite.

Plus, they are easy to make and you can customize it with what you have. Bake them for your next holiday gathering or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home.

We love: Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies (by Modern Honey)

Pistachio cookies

Add a touch of green to your Christmas cookie tray with these delicious pistachio cookies.

Made with just 5 ingredients, these cookies have a crispy exterior and a chewy center. Perfect for a holiday cookie exchange or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home.

We love: Pistachio Cookies (by Veronika’s Kitchen)

Salted brownie crinkle cookies

For a decadent and chocolatey treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth, try these salted brownie crinkle cookies.

With a shiny, crackly outside and a fudgy inside, these cookies are topped with semi-sweet chocolate chips and sea salt flakes for the perfect balance of salty and sweet. Plus, they can be easily shaped into perfect rounds for an added festive touch.

Perfect for any Christmas cookie platter!

We love: Salted Brownie Crinkle Cookies (by Beyond the Butter®)

Snowball cookies

These buttery snowball cookies are filled with chopped pecans and rolled in powdered sugar, making them the perfect easy dessert for the holidays.

Plus, with a short baking time and simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Watch the video tutorial for step-by-step instructions.

We love: Snowball Cookies + VIDEO (by Live Well Bake Often)

Regina biscotti

Add a touch of Sicilian flavor to your Christmas cookie tray with these Biscotti Regina cookies.

The Italian cookies are covered in toasted sesame seeds. These lightly nutty and not-too-sweet cookies are perfect for breakfast or a coffee break.

Easy to make, they are sure to be a hit with friends and family this holiday season.

We love: Regina Biscotti- Italian Sesame Seed Cookies (by Savoring Italy)

Six-ingredient snowball cookies

These easy and delicious snowball cookies are the perfect addition to any Christmas cookie box.

With only six ingredients and a quick 30-minute baking time, they are a great recipe to make with kids during the busy holiday season.

Rolling the cookies twice in powdered sugar creates a beautiful “snow” coating, making them a festive and tasty treat for the holidays.

We love: 6 Ingredient Snowball Cookies (by Cloudy Kitchen)

Tiramisu cookies

Indulge in the flavors of tiramisu this Christmas with these easy-to-make cookies.

A soft espresso cookie base is topped with a creamy mascarpone mousse and finished off with a dusting of cocoa powder or shredded chocolate.

Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home.

We love: Tiramisu Cookies (by Eats Delightful)

Thumbprint cookies

These thumbprint cookies are a delicious addition to any Christmas cookie platter.

The buttery shortbread cookies are filled with either strawberry or apricot jam, making them the perfect festive treat. Plus, they are easy to make and can be enjoyed for any occasion.

We love: Thumbprint Cookies (by Live Well Bake Often)

Butterscotch chip cookies

Add a festive touch to your cookie tray with Butterscotch Chip Cookies.

These classic chocolate chip cookies are elevated with a cup of butterscotch chips, creating a buttery and rich flavor.

With a simple prep and bake time under 30 minutes, these cookies are a perfect addition to any Christmas gathering or holiday treat for your loved ones.

We love: Butterscotch Chip Cookies (by Dinner, then Dessert)

Chocolate chip tahini cookies

Add a twist to your Christmas cookie lineup with these life changing tahini chocolate chip cookies.

They are paleo-friendly, gluten-free, and grain-free, with options for vegan and nut-free versions.

The crispy edges and chewy interior, along with the addition of sea salt flakes, make these cookies truly life-changing.

Plus, they can be made in just a few simple steps and have a deliciously unique flavor thanks to the tahini.

We love: Chocolate Chip Tahini Cookies (by KALEJUNKIE)

Easy thick chocolate chip cookies

These easy thick chocolate chip cookies are the perfect Christmas cookie recipe. With a crispy exterior, gooey middle, and loads of milk chocolate chips, these cookies will be a hit with Santa and all your holiday guests.

The recipe is simple and can easily be doubled or tripled for large batches. Plus, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 48 hours for even thicker cookies.

Enjoy these festive treats straight out of the oven for the ultimate holiday indulgence.

We love: Easy Thick Chocolate Chip Cookies (by Jessie Bakes Cakes)

Soft gingerbread cookies

This gingerbread cookie recipe is the ultimate Christmas treat.

With a perfect combination of spices and a soft and thick texture, these cookies are the perfect addition to any holiday gathering or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Plus, the recipe can easily be made vegan to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Don’t forget to decorate them with a dusting of powdered sugar or a quick royal icing for a festive touch.

We love: Best ever soft gingerbread cookies (by Blue Bowl)

Cookies and cream rocky road

Add a festive twist to your holiday cookie spread with this easy and indulgent cookies and cream rocky road recipe.

With only three ingredients and no baking required, it’s a perfect recipe to make with kids and a delicious treat to enjoy during the busy holiday season. The combination of Oreos, marshmallows, and white chocolate creates a decadent and irresistible flavor that everyone will love.

Plus, the extra Oreo cookies on top make for a fun and festive presentation.

We love: Cookies and Cream Rocky Road (by Sweetest Menu)

Cut-out sugar cookies

This cut-out sugar cookie recipe are a must-have for any Christmas party! So grab your festive cookie cutters and get creative with these Christmas sugar cookies.

The buttery and sweet cookies are easy to make and can be decorated with festive sprinkles for a fun touch.

Plus, the dough can be made ahead of time and chilled until ready to use, making Christmas sugar cookies a convenient option for holiday baking.

We love: Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (by In Bloom Bakery)

Italian cookies

These traditional Italian cookies are the perfect addition to any Christmas cookie platter. Flavored with almond extract and covered in a simple glaze, they are a tasty and festive treat for the holiday season.

With a quick and easy recipe, these cookies are perfect for whipping up during the busy holiday season. Plus, they can be customized with different flavors or toppings, making them a versatile and delicious addition to any holiday baking list.

We love: Italian Cookies (by Lil Luna)

Caramel chocolate chip cookies

Add a festive twist to old fashioned chocolate chip cookies with these caramel chocolate chip cookies.

The gooey salted caramel sauce made from Werther’s soft caramels and salted caramel chips adds a deliciously indulgent touch perfect for the holiday season.

Plus, the simple and quick recipe allows you to whip up a batch in no time for all your Christmas cookie exchanges and gatherings.

We love: Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies (by Olives + Thyme)

Soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies recipe

These soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies are a must-have for the holiday season. They are thick, extra soft, and packed with chocolate chips, making them the perfect treat for Christmas.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is foolproof and yields delicious results every time. Plus, chilling the dough adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to these already irresistible cookies.

We love: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe (by Live Well Bake Often)

Pumpkin coffee cake cookies

These pumpkin coffee cake cookies are perfect for the holiday season.

Made with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a crunchy streusel topping, they are reminiscent of a classic Christmas coffee cake.

Drizzled with a sweet vanilla glaze, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

We love: Pumpkin Coffee Cake Cookies (by In Bloom Bakery)

Cookies and cream cookies

These cookies and cream cookies are a delicious and festive addition to any Christmas cookie platter.

Packed with Oreos and white chocolate chips, they are soft and chewy, and can be made in just one bowl with pantry staples.

The option to add a white chocolate drizzle on top adds a touch of holiday cheer.

We love: Cookies and Cream Cookies (by Cookie Dough Diaries)

Authentic pignoli nut cookies

These authentic pignoli nut cookies are a must for any Christmas cookie platter.

Made with almond paste, egg whites, and a touch of flour, these chewy and slightly crunchy Sicilian cookies are coated in pine nuts and baked to a golden perfection.

Quick and easy to make, these cookies will impress any holiday guest and are sure to become a new favorite.

We love: Authentic Pignoli Nut Cookies (by Savoring Italy)

Salted caramel toffee cookies

Indulge in the flavors of the holiday season with these easy salted caramel toffee cookies.

With bits of caramel and toffee in every bite, these cookies are the perfect treat for Christmas gatherings or as a sweet addition to your holiday cookie platter.

The added touch of sea salt settles these cookies into a firm favorite!

We love: Salted Caramel Toffee Cookies! (by Lemon Peony)

Lemon cream cheese cookies

These lemon cream cheese cookies are the perfect addition to your Christmas cookie platter.

Light and fluffy, with a tangy lemon glaze, they’re sure to be a hit with your friends and family. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be made ahead of time by chilling the dough in the fridge.

So go ahead and add these delicious cookies to your holiday baking list.

We love: Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies (by Amanda Cooks & Styles)

Christmas bar cookies

These Christmas bar cookies are a perfect holiday treat that combines the flavors of a blondie and a chocolate chip cookie.

With festive red and green M&Ms and Christmas sprinkles, they are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

Plus, they are quick and easy to make, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish.

We love: Christmas Bar Cookies (by Girl. Inspired.)

Spiced snickerdoodles

These spiced snickerdoodles are a must-have for any Christmas cookie tray.

With warm winter spices like ginger, cardamom, and nutmeg, these cookies are sure to bring the holiday spirit to any gathering. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Santa will surely love a plate of these cookies with a glass of milk on Christmas Eve!

We love: Spiced Snickerdoodles (by Pretty Simple Sweet)

Brown butter maple pecan cookies

Add a touch of holiday flavor to your cookie tray with these brown butter maple pecan cookies.

The buttery and nutty shortbread cookies are topped with a sweet maple glaze and sprinkled with pecans.

Perfect for Christmas gatherings or as a homemade gift for your favorite people.

We love: Brown Butter Maple Pecan Cookies (by Little Vintage Baking)

Creme brûlée cookies

These creme brûlée cookies are a must-have for any Christmas cookie spread. With a chewy, buttery sugar cookie base and a rich and creamy vanilla pastry cream topping, these cookies are sure to be a hit with holiday guests.

The addition of a caramelized sugar topping adds a festive touch and a delicious crunch. They are easy to assemble and can be enjoyed right away, making them the perfect treat for any holiday gathering.

We love: Creme Brûlée Cookies (by In Bloom Bakery)

Pumpkin oatmeal cookies

Add a festive touch to your Christmas cookie platter with these pumpkin oatmeal cookies.

The warm and cozy flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg make them the perfect treat to enjoy during the holiday season.

Plus, the added cream cheese glaze adds a delicious and decorative touch to these already delicious cookies.

We love: Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies (by Stephanie Sweet Treats)

Soft tiramisu cookies

Indulge in the flavors of the classic Italian dessert with these soft and chewy tiramisu cookies topped with a creamy espresso mascarpone frosting and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

What makes them perfect for the holiday season? No chilling time required—these cookies are quick and easy to make, leaving you with more time to enjoy with loved ones.

We love: Tiramisu Cookies (Soft and No Chill) (by Olives + Thyme)

Red velvet sugar cookies

These red velvet sugar cookies are the perfect Christmas cookie recipe.

The red food coloring and white chocolate peanut butter hearts make them a festive and delicious treat for the holiday season.

Plus, the small batch recipe is perfect for sharing with loved ones or bringing to a holiday cookie swap.

We love: Red Velvet Sugar Cookies (by DessertForTwo)

Chocolate butterscotch chip cookies

Add a dash of holiday cheer to your cookie tray with these chocolate butterscotch chip cookies. Soft and chewy on the inside with a slight crunch on the outside, these cookies are filled with chocolate and butterscotch chips for the perfect sweet and salty balance.

Top them off with a sprinkle of flaky salt for an extra touch of flavor.

Simple to make and impossible to resist, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any Christmas gathering.

We love: Chocolate Butterscotch Chip Cookies (by Broken Oven Baking Company)

Frequently asked questions

‘Tis the season for sugar, spice, and everything nice! These delicious Christmas cookie recipes are the perfect way to spread holiday cheer and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Whether you prefer traditional gingerbread cookies, a fail-safe Christmas cookies recipe, or want to try something new like tahini chocolate chip cookies, there’s a recipe here for everyone.

So gather your loved ones, put on your favorite holiday tunes, and get baking! Happy baking and happy holidays!