The holiday season is a magical time filled with warmth, joy, and delicious treats.

One of the most cherished traditions is baking Christmas cookies, filling homes with the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods.

Whether you’re planning a festive gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these easy recipes will bring a touch of sweetness to your celebrations.

Get ready to indulge in 25 scrumptious Christmas cookie recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends!

1. Classic Sugar Cookies

These classic sugar cookies are the perfect canvas for your holiday creativity.

Soft, buttery, and delightful, they can be easily customized with colorful icing and sprinkles to suit any festive theme.

Made with just a handful of ingredients, these cookies are a staple during the holiday season, offering both family-friendly fun and delicious taste.

Gather your loved ones for a delightful cookie decorating session and watch the smiles grow as each cookie becomes a unique masterpiece.

Ingredients:
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups white sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 to 4 tablespoons of milk

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla.
5. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
6. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls into balls, and place onto ungreased pans.
7. Flatten each ball with a fork, and sprinkle with sugar.
8. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven.
9. Let cool on wire racks.

2. Gingerbread Men

No holiday cookie platter is complete without the iconic gingerbread men!

These spicy, fragrant cookies capture the essence of Christmas with their unique blend of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses.

Perfect for decorating with icing, candy, and edible embellishments, they are a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Creating gingerbread men can become a fun family tradition, with everyone contributing to the decorating process.

Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 cup molasses

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
2. In another bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in egg and molasses.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the mixture.
5. Roll out the dough and cut into shapes.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.
7. Cool on wire racks before decorating.

3. Peppermint Bark Cookies

Bring a refreshing twist to your holiday baking with these peppermint bark cookies!

Combining rich chocolate cookies with a layer of creamy white chocolate and crushed peppermint candies, they are a festive treat that will delight every chocolate lover.

These cookies are easy to make and perfect for gifting, adding a pop of color and flavor to your holiday cookie box.

The crunch of the peppermint combined with the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate creates a delightful contrast that is hard to resist.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.
7. Melt white chocolate and drizzle over cooled cookies, then sprinkle with crushed peppermint.

4. Snickerdoodles

Soft, chewy, and dusted with cinnamon sugar, snickerdoodles are a classic Christmas cookie that never goes out of style.

With their slightly tangy flavor from cream of tartar, these cookies offer a delightful twist on the traditional sugar cookie.

They are simple to make and perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings, bringing warmth and nostalgia to the festive season.

Plus, their inviting aroma will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!

Ingredients:
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups white sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients.
6. Roll dough into balls, then roll in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
7. Place on ungreased baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes.

5. Chocolate Chip Cranberry Cookies

Add a festive twist to the classic chocolate chip cookie by incorporating tart cranberries and white chocolate chips.

These cookies are chewy, gooey, and bursting with flavor, making them a delightful addition to your holiday cookie assortment.

The combination of sweet and tart creates a delicious balance that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, so you can spend more time enjoying the holidays with loved ones.

Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
5. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
6. Fold in chocolate chips and cranberries.
7. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.

6. Almond Joy Cookies

If you’re a fan of the Almond Joy candy bar, these cookies are a must-try!

Packed with shredded coconut, chocolate chips, and almonds, they bring the flavors of the classic treat into cookie form.

Chewy and indulgent, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth during the holiday season.

They also make a delightful gift for friends and family, adding a touch of tropical flair to your cookie platter.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
4. In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture.
6. Fold in coconut, chocolate chips, and almonds.
7. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.

7. Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

Add a touch of elegance to your holiday cookie spread with raspberry thumbprint cookies.

These buttery cookies are filled with sweet raspberry jam, creating a delightful burst of flavor with every bite.

Their charming appearance and delightful taste make them perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet gift for loved ones.

You can also experiment with different fruit jams, allowing you to customize these cookies to your taste!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 egg yolk
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in egg yolk.
4. Gradually mix in flour and salt.
5. Roll dough into balls and place on baking sheets.
6. Use your thumb to make an indentation in each ball.
7. Fill with raspberry jam.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes and dust with powdered sugar once cooled.

8. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

For a heartier option, oatmeal raisin cookies are a classic choice that never disappoints.

Chewy and wholesome, these cookies are filled with oats, plump raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, making them a delicious treat that feels a bit healthier.

They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa.

These cookies are also versatile; feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup raisins

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
4. In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Gradually blend in dry ingredients, then stir in oats and raisins.
6. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.

9. White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies

Indulge in the rich flavors of white chocolate and macadamia nuts with these delightful cookies.

Soft, chewy, and packed with creamy white chocolate chips and crunchy macadamia nuts, they offer a luxurious twist on traditional cookies.

These cookies are perfect for holiday gifting or as a special treat to enjoy with loved ones.

Their unique flavor combination is sure to impress and make your holiday gatherings even more memorable.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
4. In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture.
6. Fold in white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts.
7. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.

10. Peanut Butter Blossoms

These iconic peanut butter blossoms are a holiday favorite, combining the rich flavor of peanut butter with a delightful chocolate kiss on top.

Soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible, these cookies are perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings.

They bring a nostalgic touch to your cookie platter and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Make some extra to keep at home, as they’re perfect for snacking with a glass of milk!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup white sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 48 chocolate kisses

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix peanut butter, white sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
5. Roll dough into balls and place on baking sheets.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes.
7. Press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie while they are still warm.

11. Eggnog Cookies

Celebrate the season with the rich, creamy flavors of eggnog in cookie form!

These soft, spiced cookies are infused with eggnog and topped with a dusting of nutmeg, making them a unique holiday treat.

They bring the festive spirit to your cookie platter while offering a delightful twist on traditional flavors.

Perfect for sharing with friends and family, these cookies will leave a lasting impression on everyone who tries them!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in egg, vanilla, and eggnog.
4. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and nutmeg.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
6. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.

12. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

These chocolate crinkle cookies are a holiday favorite, known for their fudgy texture and beautiful powdered sugar coating.

They have a rich chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa.

Their striking appearance makes them a standout addition to your holiday cookie tray, and they are surprisingly easy to make.

These cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 cups white sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 4 eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cocoa powder, sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
4. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
6. Chill dough for at least 4 hours.
7. Roll dough into balls, then roll in powdered sugar.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes.

13. Caramel Apple Cookies

Embrace the flavors of fall with these delightful caramel apple cookies.

Soft and chewy, these cookies are loaded with chunks of apple and caramel, offering a sweet and tart experience in every bite.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, they bring a unique twist to traditional cookie flavors and are sure to be a hit with guests.

These cookies are not only delicious but also a wonderful way to celebrate the seasonal bounty of apples.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup diced apples
– 1 cup caramel bits

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
4. In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
6. Stir in diced apples and caramel bits.
7. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.

14. Chocolate Dipped Biscotti

These crunchy chocolate-dipped biscotti are a sophisticated twist on holiday cookies.

Perfect for dipping into coffee or hot chocolate, they offer a delightful crunch and rich chocolate flavor.

Biscotti are not only delicious but also make a wonderful presentation on any holiday dessert table.

You can customize them by adding nuts, dried fruits, or even spices to suit your taste!

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chocolate chips (for dipping)

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and vanilla.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture.
5. Shape dough into a log and bake for 25-30 minutes.
6. Let cool, then slice into biscotti shapes and bake again for 10-15 minutes.
7. Melt chocolate chips and dip the cooled biscotti, then let set on wax paper.

15. M&M Christmas Cookies

Brighten up your holiday cookie platter with these fun and colorful M&M cookies!

Chewy and packed with chocolatey goodness, these cookies are always a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Their vibrant colors make them perfect for holiday parties, and they can be easily customized with seasonal M&Ms.

These cookies are not just tasty but also a joy to make, bringing smiles to everyone who sees them!

Ingredients:
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup M&M candies

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients.
6. Fold in M&M candies.
7. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Conclusion

Baking Christmas cookies is not just about the delicious treats, but also about creating cherished memories with family and friends.

With these 25 easy recipes, you can fill your home with the warm scents of the season and delight your loved ones with festive treats.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the holiday baking begin!