34 Holiday Cookie Recipes That Will Sweeten Your Season

As the holiday season approaches, the air is filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies, evoking feelings of warmth, joy, and togetherness. Whether you’re a fan of classic treats like chocolate chip or more adventurous flavors like gingerbread, holiday cookies have a way of bringing people together and putting smiles on faces.

In this blog post, we’ll take a mouthwatering journey through the best holiday cookie recipes, carefully curated to delight your taste buds and satisfy your sweet tooth. So, put on your favorite holiday tunes, don your coziest apron, and get ready to bake up some festive cheer!

Classic Sugar Cookies

Classic Sugar Cookies

Classic Sugar Cookies are an integral part of the holiday season’s baking traditions. Their soft, chewy texture and versatility in decorating make them a staple at gatherings with friends and family. The simplicity of the recipe, which calls for all-purpose flour, butter, sugar, baking powder, salt, vanilla extract, and one egg, belies its impressive yield of approximately 16 cookies per batch.

This recipe is easily scalable to accommodate larger crowds, making it an ideal choice for holiday celebrations. Upon baking, these cookies emerge with a light golden color and a sweet flavor that’s sure to delight everyone. As a beloved classic, Classic Sugar Cookies are guaranteed to be a hit at any festive gathering.

Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are a quintessential holiday delight that can be whipped up in no time. With a straightforward ingredient list and no need to chill the dough, this recipe is ideal for those new to baking or looking for a stress-free treat. The end result is a deliciously vanilla-flavored cookie with a delightfully soft and chewy texture that’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser.

Whether enjoyed on their own or topped with your favorite frosting, these cookies are an absolute must-have for any holiday celebration.

Christmas Cookies

Christmas Cookies

Indulge in the warmth and magic of the holiday season with Christmas Cookies, a delectable collection of classic treats that will delight your senses. This treasure trove of festive favorites includes soft and chewy Ginger Snaps, enchanting Christmas Sugar Cookies, and buttery Spritz Cookies that melt in your mouth. For a sweet treat that’s sure to please kids and adults alike, try the Christmas Wreath Cookies or indulge in the rich decadence of White Chocolate Dipped Cookies.

With an array of flavors and textures to choose from, Christmas Cookies is the perfect companion for any holiday gathering – whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night at home.

Christmas Sugar Cookies

Christmas Sugar Cookies

A cherished Christmas tradition, the Sugar Cookies recipe remains a beloved favorite during the holiday season. Its unique characteristics include soft, thick centers that provide a satisfying texture contrast with slightly crisp edges and flat tops perfect for decorating. The dough is remarkably easy to work with, maintaining its shape beautifully even after baking. The icing, too, has been designed for ease of use, setting firm and glossy without fuss.

This allows for effortless stacking or shipping, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings. Ultimately, these cookies strike a delightful balance between buttery richness and subtle sweetness, solidifying their status as a must-have addition to any festive baking repertoire.

Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Santa Cookies

Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Santa Cookies

Indulge in the sweet joy of Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Santa Cookies, a delectable holiday treat that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. By combining white cake mix, chocolate chips, and festive sprinkles, you’ll create soft, chewy cookies that burst with rich, velvety chocolate flavor in every bite.

A playful spin on traditional chocolate chip cookies, these Santa-themed treats are sure to delight both kids and adults, making them an ideal choice for gifting or leaving out for the big man himself.

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors that define Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies. This delectable treat is packed with an assortment of mix-ins, including crunchy pretzel and potato chip pieces, colorful M&M’s, creamy white chocolate chips, and sprinkles that add a touch of festive flair. Whether you’re baking for kids or enjoying them as a holiday indulgence, these cookies are sure to spread cheer and become a new family tradition.

What sets Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies apart is their ease of preparation – no chilling required and a 30-minute baking time means you can get your hands on these tasty treats in no time. With their playful mix-ins, they’re an ideal choice for a fun and interactive baking experience with the little ones. As a result, Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies offer a scrumptious and festive treat that’s perfect for the holiday season.

Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Indulge in the warmth of the season with Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies, a show-stopping addition to any holiday gathering. These tender treats boast a bakery-fresh quality, boasting thickness and a softness that’s hard to resist. The best part? They won’t spread during baking, ensuring each cookie retains its intended shape. With only a handful of simple ingredients required, this recipe is perfect for the novice baker or seasoned pro alike.

As an added bonus, these cookies are a blank canvas just waiting for your creative touch. Decorate with icing, sprinkles, and candy to make them a hit with kids and adults alike. Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are a matchless blend of festive charm and delectable taste, sure to spread joy and cheer throughout the holiday season.

Chewy Chocolate Cookies

Chewy Chocolate Cookies

Indulge in the quintessential holiday delight – Chewy Chocolate Cookies! This recipe serves up a soft, chewy texture that’s sure to please both kids and adults. With a yield of 30 cookies and a preparation time of just 20 minutes, you can’t go wrong. Each cookie packs a punch with 145 calories’ worth of rich, velvety chocolate flavor.

Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a festive gathering or simply craving a sweet treat to brighten your day, these Chewy Chocolate Cookies are the perfect indulgence.

Honey Gingerbread Cookies

Honey Gingerbread Cookies

Indulge in the sweet and spicy charm of Honey Gingerbread Cookies, a holiday classic that’s sure to delight. With a dough that’s a breeze to work with, these tender treats can be easily molded into festive shapes or cut into fun designs. The aroma of honey wafts through each bite, perfectly balanced by the warm spices of cinnamon and ginger. What sets these cookies apart is their remarkable longevity – they remain soft and chewy for weeks, and only continue to improve in flavor over time.

For an extra touch of festivity, try drizzling melted chocolate or sprinkles over your finished cookies. Whether you’re sending them as a gift or including them in a care package, Honey Gingerbread Cookies are sure to spread cheer.

Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Whipped Shortbread Cookies

Indulge in the sweet delight of Whipped Shortbread Cookies this holiday season! This melt-in-your-mouth treat is a masterclass in textures, with its light and airy consistency courtesy of cornstarch. The simplicity of the recipe, which only requires butter, confectioners’ sugar, flour, and cornstarch, makes it effortless to whip up a batch. And don’t forget about the optional flavorings and toppings – a splash of vanilla extract or sprinkles can elevate these cookies to new heights.

Whether you’re serving them fresh for up to a week at room temperature or storing them in the fridge for longer, Whipped Shortbread Cookies are sure to be a hit on any holiday cookie platter.

Soft Chocolate Sugar Cookies

Soft Chocolate Sugar Cookies

Indulge in the deep, rich flavors of these decadent soft chocolate sugar cookies, crafted with a secret ingredient that elevates their taste to new heights – espresso powder. The combination of melted and softened butter in the dough yields a delightfully soft and chewy texture, while the need for refrigeration before baking ensures they retain their shape. With ease, you can whip up these indulgent treats and add them to any holiday cookie platter for an unforgettable spread.

Grinch Cookies

Grinch Cookies

Add a touch of Whoville whimsy to your holiday gatherings with these delectable Grinch Cookies! By incorporating cake mix and a few simple ingredients, you’ll be whipping up a batch in no time. The result is a sweet treat that perfectly captures the grumpy yet lovable essence of Dr. Seuss’s iconic character. With their vibrant green hue and adorable heart-shaped toppers, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make – just remember to skip the chill time in the fridge and you’ll be all set! Once baked and cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container or stash them away for a future indulgence. Trust us, your friends and family will be green with envy when they take a bite of these tasty Grinch Cookies.

Perfect Sugar Cookies

Perfect Sugar Cookies

Perfect Sugar Cookies is a go-to recipe for creating delectable and adaptable sugar cookies. These soft and flavorful treats are effortless to cut out and retain their shape beautifully, making them perfect for a variety of occasions. The recipe relies on premium ingredients such as unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, baking powder, and all-purpose flour. What’s more, it offers flexibility by allowing you to add unique flavors like citrus zest or almond extract.

Whether you prefer a soft-baked cookie or a crispy treat, this recipe delivers on both fronts. With baked cookies able to be stored for up to seven days and frozen for extended periods, Perfect Sugar Cookies is a dependable favorite that’s sure to impress during the holiday season or any time of the year.

Sugar Cookies

Sugar Cookies

Soft, flavorful, and utterly charming, sugar cookies are a quintessential holiday treat that’s sure to bring joy to both young and old. What sets this recipe apart is its unique characteristic of not requiring dough chilling, allowing you to bake cookies that retain their shape and texture with ease. Plus, the addition of gluten-free substitution makes it accessible to all, while the optional frosting provides an extra layer of indulgence.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newcomer to the world of cookie-making, these sugar cookies are a must-have for your holiday repertoire.

Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Chocolate Kiss Cookies

Indulge in the decadence of Chocolate Kiss Cookies, where rich, soft centers meet festive sprinkles and the sweetness of a chocolate kiss. Perfect for any occasion, these indulgent treats are sure to bring joy to both seasoned bakers and newcomers alike. With a recipe that’s easy to follow, even the most novice of cooks can create a show-stopping cookie platter that will leave everyone feeling merry and bright.

Butter Cookies

Butter Cookies

Indulge in the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked Butter Cookies, a timeless Christmas classic that never fails to delight. This homemade recipe elevates the traditional treat with a rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying texture that’s both crisp and tender. The addition of decadent chocolate takes these cookies to new heights of indulgence. Perfect for gifting or enjoying on their own, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.

Whether you opt for classic vanilla or the festive funfetti version infused with almond extract, these Butter Cookies are a must-have for any holiday gathering. Plus, the option to make slice-and-bake cookies adds an extra layer of convenience to this already irresistible treat.

Shortbread Blossoms

Shortbread Blossoms

Indulge in the sweet simplicity of Shortbread Blossoms, a delightful holiday treat that combines tender shortbread with a Hershey’s kiss. With only six ingredients required, this recipe is an ideal choice for baking with kids. To add a festive flair, roll the cookies in sprinkles or colored sugar. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in baking them until the edges feel set, resulting in a delightful crunch once cooled.

While they’re best enjoyed after cooling completely, Shortbread Blossoms are a delicious and easy addition to any holiday cookie platter.

Bakery Style Raspberry White Chocolate Cookies

Bakery Style Raspberry White Chocolate Cookies

Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy cookie that’s bursting with flavor. The Bakery Style Raspberry White Chocolate Cookies deliver just that – a perfect blend of sweetness and tartness from the combination of fresh raspberries and white chocolate chips. And the best part? They can be whipped up in under 30 minutes without any need for chilling.

Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping treat for your holiday party or a sweet surprise to bring to a loved one, these cookies are sure to impress. With their versatility – simply swap out the raspberries for another fruit or nut of your choice – and ability to be stored for up to a week, they’re an ideal addition to any festive gathering.

Neiman Marcus Cookie

Neiman Marcus Cookie

A cherished holiday tradition, the Neiman Marcus Cookie recipe has been a staple in many families’ kitchens for decades. This beloved recipe produces a generous batch of rich, chewy cookies that are perfect for sharing with loved ones or stashing away for later. The inclusion of rolled oats brings not only a nutty flavor but also a satisfying texture, while the option to use either semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips allows for personalization.

For an added layer of complexity, consider incorporating grated Hershey’s bars and chopped walnuts or pecans. Ultimately, this timeless recipe is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth during the holiday season.

Hot Cocoa Cookies

Hot Cocoa Cookies

Indulge in the warm, comforting spirit of the holidays with Hot Cocoa Cookies, a scrumptious dessert that masterfully blends the indulgent flavors of hot cocoa into a sweet treat. The crowning glory of these delectable cookies is their gooey marshmallow topping and vibrant sprinkles, which guarantee to put a smile on anyone’s face. To further elevate this festive cookie, a rich chocolate icing adds an extra layer of opulence.

With its unbeatable combination of flavors and textures, Hot Cocoa Cookies are an absolute must-try for any cookie enthusiast during the holiday season, making it a surefire hit with both young and old alike.

Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread Cookies

Indulge in the rich flavors of Shortbread Cookies, a quintessential holiday delight that combines the simplicity of just five ingredients with the sophistication of customizable flavors and textures. The buttery aroma wafts up, enticing you to take a bite, and as you do, the crumbly, slightly flaky texture melts effortlessly on your palate.

Whether enjoyed solo or shared with loved ones, these homemade Shortbread Cookies offer an unparalleled taste experience that far surpasses their store-bought counterparts. Try this timeless recipe for a truly unforgettable holiday treat.

Cookie Box

Cookie Box

With the Cookie Box recipe, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of how to craft the perfect cookie gift box for the holidays. This guide covers a range of topics, from selecting unique cookie shapes and flavors to incorporating candies or other treats that add visual appeal. In addition, the recipe provides valuable advice on preserving the cookies’ freshness and offers a curated list of recipes you can use to create your masterpiece.

What’s more, the decorating instructions are crystal clear, offering inspiration for creative presentation ideas. As such, this resource is an invaluable tool for anyone seeking to create a show-stopping and scrumptious holiday gift that will be cherished by its recipient.

Easy Black and White Cookies

Easy Black and White Cookies

A beloved holiday tradition gets a modern twist in the Easy Black and White Cookies recipe. These soft, cake-like treats boast a delightful flavor contrast, courtesy of their dual-frosted design featuring both vanilla and chocolate icing. With roots tracing back to New York City’s rich cultural heritage, these cookies have become a cherished family tradition for many.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – just combine basic ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, sour cream, flour, and cocoa powder, then bake and frost to create a mouthwatering holiday treat that’s sure to delight.

Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies

Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies

Indulge in the warm, nostalgic charm of Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies, a timeless classic that never fails to delight. These tender morsels boast a soft, velvety texture and a satisfying crunch from their sugary glaze, courtesy of the harmonious union between powdered sugar and cream of tartar.

With its simplicity in preparation and versatility in presentation – whether enjoyed plain or adorned with a luscious frosting – this recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a genuine holiday treat that’s as much a part of tradition as it is a joy to consume.

Holiday Spritz Cookies

Holiday Spritz Cookies

These Holiday Spritz Cookies embody the essence of Christmas cheer, boasting a delicate balance of flavors that will leave you craving another bite. With their tender texture and satisfying snap, it’s no wonder they’re often the first to vanish at holiday parties. And the best part? They’re delightfully understated in terms of sweetness, making them an ideal treat for snacking on throughout the year.

What’s more, these cookies are incredibly versatile – simply swap out the Christmas sprinkles and shapes for a different occasion or theme, and you’ll be enjoying a fresh batch of sweet treats in no time. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just looking to add some holiday magic to your daily routine, these simple yet flavorful cookies are sure to become a new tradition.

Soft Sugar Cookies

Soft Sugar Cookies

Indulge in the quintessential holiday treat, Soft Sugar Cookies, which boast a soft, thick texture and generous layer of frosting. The game-changing addition of cream cheese imbues these treats with unparalleled moisture and flavor, rendering them free from the perils of dryness or crunchiness.

A delicate balance of tangy cream cheese, rich butter, almond, and vanilla extracts creates a symphony of flavors that can be savored on their own or paired with an extra dollop of creamy buttercream frosting. Ditch the disappointing, crispy sugar cookies and delight in these tender masterpieces that retain their shape perfectly after baking.

Cranberry Shortbread Cookies

Cranberry Shortbread Cookies

Indulge in the delightful combination of fresh cranberries and orange zest in our Cranberry Shortbread Cookies, a perfect addition to any holiday cookie spread. While traditional cookies often rely on dried cranberries for flavor, these slice-and-bake treats boast a vibrant cranberry taste thanks to their use of plump, juicy berries. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth texture that can be tailored to your desired level of softness or crunchiness.

Whether you’re seeking a festive twist on classic shortbread or looking to impress your loved ones with a unique holiday cookie, Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are an absolute must-try.

White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

Indulge in the festive flavors of the season with White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies, the ultimate holiday treat. These soft-baked cookies boast a delightful peppermint twist and a satisfying crunch from the candy cane pieces. The harmonious union of sweet white chocolate and zesty peppermint is nothing short of irresistible. What’s more, this recipe is remarkably straightforward, eliminating the need for dough chilling.

Plus, these cookies freeze beautifully, making them an ideal choice for batch baking ahead of time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a holiday newcomer, White Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies are sure to become a treasured addition to your festive repertoire.

Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Levain Bakery Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies

Indulge in the ultimate cookie experience with Levain Bakery’s Chocolate Chip Crush Cookies, a decadent treat that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. These chunky, thick cookies boast a crispy exterior and a gooey center, providing a delightful textural contrast. The addition of cornstarch and cake flour yields a tender crumb, while an abundance of chocolate chips and walnuts adds depth and complexity to each bite.

Whether you’re seeking a festive holiday treat or just a indulgent snack, these cookies are sure to hit the spot.

Pecan Sandies Cookies

Pecan Sandies Cookies

Indulge in the delightful taste and texture of Pecan Sandies Cookies, a perfect holiday treat. These buttery shortbread cookies strike a harmonious balance between crunch from the chopped pecans and melt-in-your-mouth softness from the flour and sugar. The addition of powdered sugar adds a sweet and alluring touch, making them an irresistible addition to any Christmas cookie platter.

With their straightforward ingredients and effortless preparation, Pecan Sandies Cookies are a must-have for holiday gatherings.

Easy Sugar Cookies

Easy Sugar Cookies

Indulge in the simplicity of Easy Sugar Cookies, a delightful addition to any holiday spread. With just three fundamental ingredients – unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and flour – these cookies come together effortlessly. Their satisfying crunch and rich, buttery flavor evoke the comforting taste of shortbread. While they may not be suitable for intricate cut-out designs, they can be beautifully frosted or adorned with festive sprinkles.

With a mere 90 calories per cookie, this sweet treat is a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for both novice bakers and those seeking a quick and scrumptious recipe, Easy Sugar Cookies are an absolute must-try this holiday season.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Indulge in the quintessential holiday treat, Chocolate Crinkle Cookies, which combine delightful appearance with rich flavor. The straightforward recipe requires common pantry staples like flour, cocoa powder, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract, making it accessible to bakers of all levels. After the dough is chilled, the balls are rolled and generously coated in powdered sugar before baking.

This process yields a batch of soft, fudgy cookies with an appealing powdered sugar coating that can be savored warm or stored for up to 5 days. These crowd-pleasing treats are sure to impress at any holiday gathering, making them a perfect addition to your festive spread.

Cut Out Sugar Cookies

Cut Out Sugar Cookies

Indulge in the sweet delight of Cut Out Sugar Cookies, the perfect holiday treat for decorating enthusiasts. This recipe’s unique charm lies in its simplicity, requiring no chilling time and yielding buttery, soft cookies that retain their shape after baking. The seven straightforward ingredients combine to create a delectable flavor profile that can be elevated further with icing decorations.

Moreover, these versatile cookies can be rolled and cut multiple times, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking festive treats or looking to impress your loved ones, Cut Out Sugar Cookies are an absolute must-try.

Barazek Cookies

Barazek Cookies

Indulge in the scrumptious world of Barazek Cookies, a delightful Syrian treat that’s equal parts nutty, addictive, and wonderful. With their crispy edges giving way to a chewy center, these cookies are coated with sesame seeds on one side and crunchy pistachio chunks on the other. The best part? You can customize them to your taste preferences – whether you prefer a satisfying crunch or a soft, chewy texture.

Perfect for the holiday season or any time of year, Barazek Cookies offer a deliciously sweet treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

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