10 Must-Try Christmas Cookie Recipes for the Holidays

‘Tis the season my friend! Get ready to fill your kitchen with the delightful aroma of freshly baked treats! This collection of my 10 Favorite Christmas cookie recipes combines classic favorites with some exciting twists, ensuring there’s something for everyone this holiday season.

PIN this for later!

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these easy-to-follow recipes will make your festivities a little sweeter.

Why not start a new tradition of an official ‘baking day’ where you and a few friends or family get together and bake all the holiday goodies together? Turn up the holiday music and break out the fun!

This blog post contains affiliate links. The opinions are wholly my own from my own experience. I may earn a small commission from clicks through to the websites that end in a purchase.

Some of the images in this blog post may have been generated using AI technology via Ideogram or MidJourney.

Nutty Pecan Snowballs

Nutty pecan snowballs bring a cozy feel to any gathering. These bite-sized treats are rolled in powdered sugar, making them look like little snowy delights. Perfect for sharing, they offer a delightful crunch and a sweet surprise in every bite!

Nutty Pecan Snowballs

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup finely chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Mix in vanilla.
3. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until combined. Fold in pecans.
4. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden.
6. Let cool for 5 minutes, then roll warm cookies in powdered sugar.
7. Once fully cooled, roll in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.

Yield: About 24 cookies. Enjoy these buttery, nutty delights with your favorite warm drink!

Rich Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

These rich chocolate crinkle cookies are a delightful treat for any chocolate lover. Their cracked tops and powdered sugar coating make them look as good as they taste. Soft and chewy on the inside, they are perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until combined. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
3. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Chill dough in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Scoop chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar, ensuring they are fully coated.
6. Place coated balls on the baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until cookies are set but still soft in the center. The tops will crinkle as they bake.
8. Cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Yield: About 24 cookies. Enjoy these fudgy, crackled treats!

Classic Gingerbread Cookies

Classic gingerbread cookies are a holiday favorite that brings back sweet memories. They come in fun shapes like houses and cheerful gingerbread people, making them perfect for decorating. Enjoying these tasty treats with family adds to the festive spirit!

EASY GINGERBREAD COOKIE RECIPE HERE

Cranberry Orange Shortbread

Cranberry orange shortbread is a delightful treat that brings a burst of flavor to your snack time. The tartness of cranberries pairs perfectly with the sweetness of oranges, creating a tasty balance. These buttery bars are simple to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract.
2. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Stir in orange zest and chopped cranberries.
3. Shape the dough into a log about 2 inches in diameter, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour (or until firm).
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Slice chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Yield: About 24 cookies. These buttery, zesty cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings!

Fluffy Peppermint Meringues

Fluffy peppermint meringues are a delightful treat that brings a touch of sweetness and festive cheer. With their light texture and peppermint crunch, they make perfect holiday snacks or gifts. Enjoy these meringues with a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy moment!

Peppermint Meringues

Ingredients:

• 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
• Red gel food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 225°F (110°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a clean, dry bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar with a mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form (about 5 minutes).
4. Gently fold in peppermint extract until evenly incorporated.
5. For a festive look, paint 2-3 thin stripes of red gel food coloring inside a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Fill the bag with meringue.
6. Pipe small swirls or kisses onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 1 hour, then turn off the oven and let meringues cool inside for another hour to dry completely.
8. Store in an airtight container to keep crisp.

Yield: About 30-40 meringues. These light, minty treats make a delightful holiday snack or gift!

Classic Snickerdoodles with Cinnamon Sugar

Classic snickerdoodles are a must-have holiday cookie. With a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, they’re sure to bring a smile with every bite. Bake a batch to share at your next gathering or keep them all to yourself!

Classic Snickerdoodles with Cinnamon Sugar

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar (divided)
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
4. In a small bowl, mix remaining 1/4 cup sugar with cinnamon to create the cinnamon-sugar coating.
5. Scoop dough into 1 1/2-inch balls, roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture, and place on prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are set and centers look slightly underbaked. Let cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Yield: About 24 cookies. These soft, tangy, cinnamon-coated cookies are a timeless favorite!

Add optional frosting to the tops of these for an extra bit of yummy!

BUTTERCREAM FROSTING RECIPE

Almond Joy Coconut Macaroons

These Almond Joy Coconut Macaroons are a delightful twist on the classic treat. With a crunchy outside and a chewy center, they’re drizzled with rich chocolate for that extra touch. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo!

EASY ALMOND JOY COOKIES RECIPE

Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti

Chocolate-dipped biscotti are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These crispy, sweet snacks are great with coffee or tea, making them a cozy addition to your snack time. With their festive presentation, they also make a lovely gift for friends and family.

Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped almonds or hazelnuts (optional)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for dipping)
• 1 tsp vegetable oil (optional, for smoother dipping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until combined. Fold in nuts, if using.
5. Divide dough in half and shape each portion into a 12-inch log, about 2 inches wide. Place logs on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until lightly golden. Let logs cool for 10 minutes.
7. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Using a serrated knife, slice logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices. Arrange slices cut-side down on the baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes per side, until crisp. Cool completely on a wire rack.
9. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Add oil if needed for a silky texture. Dip one end of each biscotti into melted chocolate and place on wax paper to set.

Yield: About 24 biscotti. These crunchy, chocolate-dipped treats are perfect for dunking in coffee or tea!

Decorated Sugar Cookies

Decorated sugar cookies are a fun treat to brighten up any occasion. With their cute shapes and colorful icing, these cookies make for a delightful snack or a perfect gift. Whether you’re baking for a party or just for fun, these festive cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.

SIMPLE SUGAR COOKIE RECIPE

Chewy Molasses Cookies

Chewy molasses cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With their rich flavor and soft texture, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family. Pair them with a glass of milk, and you have a classic snack that everyone will love!

Chewy Molasses Cookies

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then mix in molasses until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until fully combined.
4. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in granulated sugar to coat. Place on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft. Cookies will puff up slightly and then flatten as they cool.
6. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Yield: About 24 cookies. These warm, spiced cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for the holidays!

Christmas is the season for joy, and what better way to spread cheer than with a tray of freshly baked cookies? These 10 must-try Christmas cookie recipes offer something for everyone, from classic favorites to creative new twists.

10 More Holiday Christmas Cookie Recipes

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, giving homemade gifts, or enjoying a cozy baking day with loved ones, these recipes are sure to add a touch of sweetness to your celebrations.

So preheat your oven, grab your favorite apron, and let the holiday baking begin—because nothing says Christmas like the smell of cookies wafting through your home!