The holiday season is upon us and what better way to get into the festive spirit than baking some delicious Christmas cookies? Whether you're looking to impress your family and friends or just want to treat yourself, these 29 easy Christmas cookie recipes will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic favorites to unique flavor combinations, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your apron and let's get baking!
Classic Christmas Cookies
1. Gingerbread Cookies
Gingerbread cookies are a staple during the holiday season. The warm spices and molasses in these cookies give them a delicious, cozy flavor. Plus, they make for great decorations with the kids.
2. Sugar Cookies
No Christmas cookie platter is complete without sugar cookies. These simple yet delicious treats can be decorated with colorful icing and sprinkles, making them a fun activity for the whole family.
3. Shortbread Cookies
Buttery and melt-in-your-mouth, shortbread cookies are a classic Christmas favorite. You can keep them simple with just a sprinkle of sugar on top or add some festive flavors like cranberries or chocolate chips.
Unique Flavors
4. Cranberry Orange Cookies
The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange in these cookies will surely make your taste buds dance. They are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making them a great addition to any holiday cookie platter.
5. Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Chocolate and peppermint are a match made in heaven, especially during the holidays. These cookies are rich and fudgy with a hint of refreshing peppermint flavor.
6. Eggnog Cookies
Eggnog is a classic Christmas drink, but have you ever tried it in cookie form? These soft and chewy cookies are infused with eggnog and topped with a creamy eggnog glaze.
Fun and Festive
7. Grinch Cookies
Inspired by the beloved Dr. Seuss character, these green cookies are filled with white chocolate chips and topped with a red heart, just like the Grinch's heart growing three sizes.
8. Peppermint Bark Cookies
If you love the classic holiday treat, then you'll love these cookies. They are filled with chunks of peppermint bark and drizzled with even more melted peppermint bark on top.
9. Rudolph Noses
These adorable cookies are a fun twist on the traditional thumbprint cookies. They are filled with a sweet raspberry jam and topped with a whole almond, resembling Rudolph's iconic red nose.
Healthy Options
10. Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies
For a healthier option that still satisfies your sweet tooth, try these oatmeal cranberry cookies. They are made with whole wheat flour, oats, and dried cranberries for a tasty and guilt-free treat.
11. Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies
Everyone should be able to enjoy Christmas cookies, even those with dietary restrictions. These gluten-free gingerbread cookies are just as delicious as the traditional ones, but without the gluten.
12. Vegan Sugar Cookies
These vegan sugar cookies are made with plant-based butter and almond milk, but you wouldn't even know the difference. They are soft and chewy with the perfect hint of vanilla.
International Delights
13. Italian Pizzelle Cookies
Pizzelle cookies are a traditional Italian Christmas treat. These thin, crispy cookies are made with a special pizzelle iron and can be flavored with anise, vanilla, or even chocolate.
14. German Lebkuchen Cookies
Lebkuchen cookies are a German Christmas staple. They are similar to gingerbread cookies, but with a chewier texture and a delicious glaze made with honey and spices.
15. Mexican Wedding Cookies
Also known as Russian Tea Cakes, these cookies are a popular Christmas treat in Mexico. They are made with ground nuts and covered in powdered sugar, making them melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Easy No-Bake Options
16. Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls
These no-bake cookies are perfect for when you don't feel like turning on the oven. They are made with just a few simple ingredients and are always a crowd-pleaser.
17. Cornflake Wreath Cookies
These cute and colorful cookies are a fun addition to any Christmas cookie platter. They are made with cornflakes, marshmallows, and green food coloring, and are shaped into wreaths.
18. Chocolate Peppermint Bark Bites
Another no-bake option, these peppermint bark bites are made with crushed Oreos, cream cheese, and peppermint extract. They are then dipped in melted chocolate and topped with crushed candy canes.
Cookies with a Twist
19. Candy Cane Cookies
These cookies are not only festive, but they also have a surprise inside. The dough is striped with red and white and then rolled into a spiral, creating a candy cane shape.
20. Hot Cocoa Cookies
Get the cozy feeling of drinking hot cocoa in cookie form with these rich and chocolatey cookies. They are filled with mini marshmallows and topped with a drizzle of melted chocolate.
21. Maple Glazed Cookies
These cookies have a delicious maple glaze that adds a unique twist to the traditional sugar cookie. They are perfect for those who prefer a less sweet option.
For the Chocolate Lovers
22. Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
You can never go wrong with a classic double chocolate chip cookie, especially during the holidays. These cookies are rich, fudgy, and loaded with chunks of chocolate.
23. Mint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
These delicious cookies have a soft and chewy texture with a crispy exterior. They are flavored with mint extract and coated in powdered sugar, making them the perfect holiday treat.
24. White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
The combination of white chocolate and cranberries in these cookies is simply irresistible. They are slightly tart, slightly sweet, and perfect for the holiday season.
For the Nut Lovers
25. Pecan Pie Cookies
These cookies are like a mini version of the classic pecan pie. They have a buttery crust and a delicious pecan filling, making them a must-try for any pecan lover.
26. Almond Snowball Cookies
Also known as Mexican Wedding Cookies, these cookies are made with ground almonds and coated in powdered sugar. They are delicate, nutty, and absolutely delicious.
27. Peanut Butter Blossoms
These cookies are a classic for a reason. They are soft and chewy peanut butter cookies, topped with a Hershey's Kiss in the center, making them both delicious and adorable.
For the Fruit Lovers
28. Cherry Pistachio Biscotti
These crunchy biscotti cookies are flavored with dried cherries and pistachios, making them the perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea.
29. Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies
These shortbread cookies are filled with dried cranberries and orange zest, giving them a festive flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
With so many delicious options, it's hard to choose just one Christmas cookie recipe to try. So why not make a few and spread some holiday cheer with your loved ones? Happy baking!