The holiday season feels a little warmer when the smell of cookies fills the kitchen. Gathered here are 49 ideas for Christmas cookies that capture the feeling of counting down to the big day. I love how baking and sharing cookies becomes part of the day’s small joys. These ideas work for swapping, gifting, or putting a cheerful plate out just because.

Candy Cane Cookies

Few things feel more like Christmas than pulling out a tray of these Candy Cane Cookies for everyone to admire. The sweet shape adds so much cheer to any cookie box. People always comment on how fun and festive they look with every bite. Each cookie sparks a little extra excitement for the countdown to Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies
Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Spices fill the air as these Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies cool on the rack, making the house smell like Christmas magic. Every bite gives both comfort and joy during the holiday rush. Friends often reach for seconds, curious if there’s a secret behind their soft texture. Cookies like these keep the holiday spirit bright all season.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies
Sweet Salted Honey Cookies

Happiness comes easy with these Sweet Salted Honey Cookies on your holiday table. Their gentle sweetness surprises guests who love trying something a little different from the usual classics. Friends ask for the recipe, curious about the secret touch that sets them apart. Christmas just feels cozier with these sweet treats to share.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Salted Honey Cookies
Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Bright flavors have a way of making these Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies special during the holidays. Their rich, cool taste makes every cookie break feel a little more festive. People love the way they melt in your mouth, adding energy to a chilly afternoon. I always sneak one before setting out the tray for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies
S’mores Stuffed Cookies

Laughter fills the kitchen whenever these S’mores Stuffed Cookies appear on the counter. The gooey center often wins a round of “Can I have one more?” from everyone nearby. Sharing these feels like bringing campfire smiles indoors just in time for the Christmas countdown. There’s something fun about treats that spark childhood memories.
Get the Recipe: S’mores Stuffed Cookies
Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Cookie platters look extra bright with these Swirled Marshmallow Cookies in the lineup. The playful designs catch everyone’s eye before the first bite is even taken. Friends find themselves reaching for these cookies just to see if the taste matches the look. Every batch disappears before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies
Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cool weather feels even better when these Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies are within reach. Holiday parties gain an extra lift from the warm, chewy bites that fill the room with comfort. People who usually skip pumpkin find themselves grabbing seconds. These cookies prove that the right combo can make any gathering more fun.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Adorable Snowman Cookies

Bright eyes pop up every time someone spots these Adorable Snowman Cookies on a festive tray. The cute shapes add a playful mood to cookie swaps and holiday parties. People take time to admire the decoration before biting in. Photos seem to happen right before each cookie vanishes from the table.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies
Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Setting these Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies on the table instantly makes things merry. Their sparkly look encourages guests to take one for themselves and maybe another for later. Story swapping and cookie tasting go hand in hand. I always see smiles when these ornaments land in a gift box.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies
Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

These Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies bring a fresh burst of flavor to the holiday cookie lineup. Their bright colors and flavors stand out next to the classics on the dessert tray. Each bite delivers a sweet surprise that keeps people coming back for more. Cookies like these remind everyone that Christmas is full of little wonders.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies
Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Kids and grown-ups alike get a kick out of these Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies with their cheerful green color. Every batch creates a sense of playful holiday mischief. Friends might even compete to see who gets the crinkliest cookie. Sharing them adds a fun twist to any Christmas countdown.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies
Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos

Cookie trays take on a charming touch with this Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos sitting front and center. The bright design looks almost too cute to eat, but somehow they always disappear. Cheerful cookies like these bring out laughter and story-telling during the holidays. More than one has ended up in someone’s pocket for later.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Ladybug Chocolate Covered Oreos
Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Layered treats like these Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies get plenty of attention during the winter celebrations. The fun shapes encourage conversation and a little sharing, too. Building and eating these becomes a countdown tradition for many. Each cookie turns snack time into a small Christmas event.
Get the Recipe: Festive Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies
Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies

Cold December evenings feel warmer with a batch of these Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies ready on the kitchen counter. The chocolate richness fits perfectly with the festive season. People get excited for a taste, and the plate empties quickly. Every cookie crumb feels like a reason to come back for more.
Get the Recipe: Rich Hot Cocoa Cookies
Festive Candy Cane Oreos

Holiday parties come alive with these Festive Candy Cane Oreos on the table. Their peppermint flavor and fun decoration invite people to stop and chat while snacking. Kids and adults both reach for these every time. A single cookie can turn an ordinary night into a spirited Christmas countdown.
Get the Recipe: Festive Candy Cane Oreos
Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Classic holiday smells fill the room each time I bake these Buttery Shortbread Cookies for a cookie exchange. The crisp bite and mellow flavor bring a cozy comfort everyone loves. Guests usually comment on how homemade shortbread just tastes better. Sharing these simple treats brings people together in the best way.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies
Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging

Cookie decorating takes on a whole new level with these Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging. Each one doubles as a snack and a decoration, spreading cheer throughout the house. People are always impressed by the clever touch. Every little Christmas tree cookie turns the countdown into a celebration.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Cookies for Hanging
Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

There’s a rich, cozy goodness in every round of these Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies. The soft texture gets compliments during festive gatherings and cookie swaps. Folks ask for the recipe, hoping to capture that bakery-style magic at home. Each cookie gets people talking as the countdown to Christmas rolls on.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies
Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

No holiday feels complete without these Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies cooling on the rack. The gooey, classic comfort brings everyone closer together. You’ll see smiles as old stories are shared over warm cookies and cold milk. Every Christmas needs a batch of these homemade favorites.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Party platters light up when these Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes join the treats for a festive evening. The playful look always puts a grin on everyone’s face. Friends hurry to grab a cupcake before they’re gone. Even the icing brings a little holiday cheer to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

There’s a homey feeling that comes from the smell of this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie baking during the holidays. The texture and heartiness make them a reliable treat when visitors stop by. People always reach for seconds, especially with a cup of hot cocoa. Sharing these cookies makes chilly nights feel warmer.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie
Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

I like pulling out these Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies for guests who love a cozy hint of spice. Each swirl adds a festive look while the aroma fills the home with warmth. Friends always want to know how to make their own. Cookie swaps turn more exciting when these show up.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies
Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies

Bright, fragrant notes make these Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies stand out on any cookie table. People often pause, curious about what makes them smell so inviting. Every bite delivers a subtle twist that turns simple snacking into a holiday treat. Cookies like these encourage everyone to try something new for Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Fragrant Earl Grey Lemon Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies

Chocoholics tend to crowd around a tray of these Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies during December gatherings. Their deep flavor and soft bite outshine anything you’d find in a store box. Friends get excited to see these in the cookie tin every year. Big, bold cookies make for the sweetest countdown.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Chocolate Cake Cookies
Soft Lemon Cookies

Sometimes you need something bright and cheery during holiday baking sessions, and these Soft Lemon Cookies fit the bill. Their citrusy lift balances classic winter flavors. Guests enjoy the break from typical chocolate and spice, often reaching for more than one. Even after days of cookies, these never stick around for long.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies
Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Peanut butter lovers celebrate every year when these Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie land on the Christmas dessert tray. There’s a distinct nostalgia in every bite, bringing back childhood lunches with a holiday twist. Friends talk about how fun it is to see this cookie at Christmastime. The countdown is sweeter when these show up.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie
Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Cookie decorating gets more fun with this Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies stacked in rows on the table. The bright colors and pretty designs encourage everyone to pitch in. People can’t help but reach for their favorites when snack time rolls around. Sharing these cookies is a holiday tradition that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies
Easy Whoopie Pie

Dessert time always feels special with this Easy Whoopie Pie added to the mix. The perfect balance between soft cookie and sweet filling makes guests feel like kids again. People chat and compare their favorite flavors as they nibble. Each one signals that Christmas is right around the corner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie
Thumb Print Cookie

Classic cookie trays never go out of style, especially with these Thumb Print Cookie front and center. Every thumbprint makes them unique, sparking conversation and memories. Guests get to choose their favorite colors and flavors, making snack time more interactive. Families look forward to baking these together every December.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie
Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Cookie pops like these Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops bring smiles to holiday parties and gift exchanges. The cute faces make them an instant favorite with both kids and adults. People are quick to take photos before tasting. Every pop feels like a small Christmas present.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops
Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

I always see the plate empty first when there are Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies in the mix. Cherries and chocolate create a bold flavor perfect for chilly nights and stringing lights. Friends ask how many they’re allowed before reaching for more. These really shine at holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies
Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

The first bite of these Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting always brings surprise and delight. Their gentle spice adds something special to the Christmas cookie lineup. People who aren’t sure about carrot cake warm up to these quickly. Every year, this cookie turns new tasters into fans.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ginger Bread House

Holiday traditions come alive as soon as a Ginger Bread House gets built and displayed. Creativity blooms as people design their own edible masterpieces. Building together fills the room with laughter and a little sweet competition. Even if the house gets nibbled, the memories last.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House
Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Rushed days before Christmas call for simple treats like these Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. They’re quick to make but still taste special enough for any gathering. Guests happily cut themselves a bar or two as they pass by. Warm, gooey bars pair well with singing carols.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies

Bringing everyone together over these Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies makes holiday sharing easy. Each batch turns out just the right texture for frosting and decorating fun. Friends who usually skip sweets gladly give these a try. Countdown treats like this bring smiles to all.
Get the Recipe: Soft Vegan Sugar Cookies
Butter Pecan Cookies

An unmistakable aroma fills the air while Butter Pecan Cookies finish baking. Made for those who love a classic taste with a simple twist, they always disappear quickly. People talk about how buttery and rich they are long after dessert is over. Cookies like these draw everyone closer during the countdown.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies
Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Cookie platters pop with texture when these Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are fresh. Friends always grab two: one to admire and one to eat. The crackle on top begs to be snapped for a photo. Baking these has become a regular part of getting ready for Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

I love seeing faces light up as soon as these Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies appear. Every design brings its own story, sparking laughter and chatter at the table. Cookie decorating turns into an event, not just a task. Christmas spirit feels strongest when these cookies are around.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies
Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Sometimes you need an extra hit of chocolate, and these Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies handle that with ease. Guests dive in, glad to have something bold to balance out lighter options. Every bite makes the countdown more delicious. Cookies like these are perfect for ending snowy afternoons with friends.
Get the Recipe: Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies
Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Baking for all kinds of guests gets easier with this Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter on your list. The light texture and simple flavor win over people with every bite. Cookie cutters come out, and suddenly everyone’s in the kitchen together. Traditions old and new are baked into every batch.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter
Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Cookie trays get even more interesting thanks to these Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies layered with flavor and crunch. Friends tend to pick one up and start comparing their favorites from the selection. Sometimes unusual snacks take center stage during Christmas countdowns. Baking for comfort means including a handful of fun new treats.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies
Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Each bite of this Soft Peanut Butter Cookies delivers comfort and a classic cookie feel. Guests are quick to reach for the last few before someone else does. Peanut butter treats remind everyone that some things just never go out of style. Sharing these makes every holiday a bit better.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies
Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Hearts pop up at Christmastime with these Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies on display. Friends talk about childhood memories and favorite shapes as they try a bite. These cookies bring warmth and connection to the holiday countdown. Batches tend to vanish faster than you’d guess.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies
Soft Strawberry Cookies

Bright red colors make these Soft Strawberry Cookies easy to spot at any holiday gathering. Guests who want something different appreciate the flavor, especially as the countdown nears its end. Cookies like these add variety to the snack table. Serving out-of-the-ordinary treats is a fun way to keep celebrations fresh.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry Cookies
Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Cookies that fit every table turn into quick favorites, and these Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies prove it. The chewy texture keeps everyone guessing about what makes them special. Someone always asks for the recipe after just one taste. Baking these opens up the cookie exchange to everyone.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies
No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

No oven needed for these No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies to win over a crowd. The nutty sweetness makes them a hit as soon as people sample a bite. Plates clear in minutes, especially when the countdown gets busy. Sharing no-bake treats means one less thing to worry about.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies
Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Cozy nights feel a little sweeter with this Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans warm from the oven. The holiday vibe fills the kitchen and draws people close. Pecan crunch adds pleasant surprise to every bite. Cookies like these are reason enough to pause the countdown and share.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans
Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

Anyone can join in on Christmas cookies with these Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies at the party. Spices go hand in hand with laughter as cookies are swapped and sampled. Their gentle bite and festive look win over even the most traditional guests. It feels good knowing everyone gets a treat.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Gingerbread Cookies
Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Even grown-ups act like kids when Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies come out. The playful look draws people right to the cookie tray, and every bite tastes like the holidays. Sharing these adds extra spirit to the countdown. There are never leftovers to bring home, which says it all.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies
