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Christmas cookies are one of my favorite parts of the holiday season. There’s just something about filling the kitchen with trays of gingerbread, sugar cookies, and anything with chocolate that makes it feel like Christmas is really here. I’ve pulled together 40 recipes that cover it all – from the classics that never get old to easy ones you can make when things get hectic, plus a few Lebanese-inspired treats that honor my heritage and bring in some extra-special flavors.
Table of Contents
From the classic gingerbread men awaiting their decorative touches to snickerdoodles and sugar cookies that never go out of style, I’ve got every cookie covered.
Why You Should Make More Holiday Cookies this Year
- Christmas cookies make great personalized gifts. Homemade cookies make thoughtful gifts. Double the cookie recipe and wrap them up in decorative packaging.
- Connect with loved ones. Baking cookies together is an excellent way to connect with family and friends. Or participate in a cookie exchange, where you can show off your cookies. It’s especially a great opportunity to get your kids involved and have fun in the kitchen – be sure to check out my tips for holiday baking with kids.
- Make one batch to enjoy, one to freeze. You may have a round of visitors in and out of your home over the holidays – make a large batch of cookies and freeze the cookie dough so you’re ready for unexpected guests.
- Creates a cozy atmosphere. Nothing is more comforting than the smell of freshly baked cookies. It will instantly put the most reluctant Scrooge into the holiday spirit because who can resist a good cookie?
Tips for Making the Best Christmas Cookies
- Follow the recipe. For best results, stick to the recipe measurements and instructions, especially when it comes to leavening agents like baking powder, baking soda, and flour ratios.
- Start with the correct supplies. Invest in good quality baking sheets for even heat distribution, which can make a big difference in the baking process. Be sure you’re stocked up on parchment paper to prevent cookies from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Know the basics. Brush up on your basic baking skills, how to soften butter, how to melt chocolate, and how to make self-rising flour. And if you’re looking for simple ways to jazz up cookies, top them with frosting, drizzle icing, or chocolate ganache. Knowing these basic skills will help you have a stress-free cookie baking experience.
- Store properly. All recipes should list proper storage instructions, including freezing directions. I recommend that you follow them so your cookies last longer to avoid them going stale or losing flavor.
- Have fun with gift wrapping. Get creative to make your cookie gifts extra special. Choose decorative packaging, such as seasonal tins, boxes, or jars, and add a personal touch like tying a ribbon or attaching a handwritten note.
My Best Christmas Cookie Recipes
Below, you will find what I consider the best Christmas cookies, especially for a cookie swap! I did include classics, but also some of the cookies my family enjoys from our Lebanese heritage!
Classic Christmas Cookies
Some of the best Christmas cookies are the ones that have stood the test of time – classic recipes passed down through generations. These classic holiday cookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa bombs.
Gingerbread Cookies
Italian Christmas Cookies
Oatmeal Cookies
Soft Baked Lofthouse Cookies
Biscotti Cookies
Iced Oatmeal Cookies
Christmas Sugar Cookies
Cardamom Cookies
Pecan Snowball Cookies
Quick and Easy Christmas Cookies
If you’re looking for an easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth without spending too much time in the kitchen, you’ll want to check out these easy Christmas cookies. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can make a batch of delicious Christmas cookies in no time (well, actually, about 20 minutes!).
Ginger Snap Cookies
Snickerdoodles
3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Peppermint Sugar Cookies
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
Holiday Cookies with Fruit
For a unique twist on traditional holiday baking, cookies with fruit bring a fresh flavor to your cookie tray. Whether they’re made with applesauce, tangy cranberries, or pumpkin puree (yes, pumpkin is a fruit!), these easy Christmas cookies are perfect for adding a little something fruity to your cookie spread.
Thumbprint Cookies
Applesauce Chocolate Chip Cookies
Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies
Apple Butter Cookies
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies
Cinnamon Oatmeal Apple Cookies
Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
Blueberry Cookies
Christmas Cookies with Chocolate
If you have chocolate lovers in your life (or if that’s you!), the best Christmas cookies are the ones packed with rich, chocolatey goodness. Whether you reach for the classic peanut butter blossoms or Nutella-filled desserts, these cookies promise to make your holidays extra special.
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Peanut Butter Blossoms
Chocolate Dipped Peanut Butter Cookies
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate Hazelnut Nutella Cookies
Almond Joy Cookies
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Lebanese-Inspired Holiday Cookies
Infused with aromatic spices, nuts, and a touch of blossom water, these cookies celebrate the rich traditions of Lebanon. Perfect for sharing or eating yourself (I won’t judge!), these holiday treats will add a special touch to your festivities this year.
Tahini Shortbread Cookies
Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookies
Date Cookies
Sesame Tahini Cookies
Pistachio Cookies
Lebanese Anise Cookies
How to Store Cookies
- Avoid moisture: All cookies should be stored in an airtight container to prevent moisture and help them maintain proper texture. Store them in a cool, dry place, and avoid storing them near heat sources or direct sunlight.
- Storage for dry and soft cookies: Most dry cookies, like shortbread and biscotti cookies, can be stored at room temperature. Soft cookies, like chocolate chip or oatmeal cookies, can be kept at room temperature for a few days, and then transferred to the fridge for longer storage. I recommend following the storage suggestions listed in individual recipes to ensure your cookies are properly stored.
- Mind the ingredients: Cookies with fresh ingredients, like those with fruit or dairy, may have a shorter shelf life. Be mindful of these and eat them within that timeframe.
- Freezing cookies: Most cookies are freezer-friendly and can be frozen for longer storage. You can place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Again, for best results, follow the freezing instructions as listed in the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to the report by General Mills, peanut butter blossoms are the most popular holiday cookie in the United States overall, closely trailing the all-time favorite year-round cookie, the chocolate chip cookie.
Many Christmas cookie recipes can be baked ahead of time as long as they are stored properly. I recommend that you check the specific recipe for guidance on storage times.
You want to look for cookies that hold up well during transit, maintain freshness, and have a festive appeal. Thankfully, most cookies are excellent candidates for gifting but some popular options are sugar cookies, shortbread cookies, biscotti, gingerbread cookies, and any of the various oatmeal cookies. Avoid delicate cookies like frosted cookies that may break or smudge during transit.
For more similar roundup of recipes, be sure to check out: Holiday Appetizers, Cozy Winter Recipes, Christmas Morning Breakfasts, and Festive New Years Recipes.
If you found this recipe roundup for Christmas Cookie Recipes helpful or if you try any recipe on Feel Good Foodie, then don’t forget to rate the recipes! It helps others who are thinking of trying out this tutorial and we would love to hear about your experience. And if you snapped some shots, share it on Instagram so we can repost on Stories!
