Gingerbread, peppermint and meringue, oh my! Make your holiday a little sweeter with our favorite Christmas cookie recipes.
1/85
Gingerbread Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Our two boys linger around the kitchen when these homemade gingerbread cookies are baking. I make this gingerbread cookie recipe throughout the year using a variety of cookie cutters. —Christy Thelan, Kellogg, Iowa
Make your life easier by rolling the dough directly on a piece of parchment dusted with confectioners’ sugar. Use the cookie cutter to create shapes and remove the excess dough. Then, slide the parchment onto the baking sheet and bake away!
2/85
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These peppermint hot chocolate cookies are a variation of the cookies my mother made when I was growing up. Now my 13-year-old daughter and I bake them together. They’re always a huge hit! The taste is like rich hot chocolate baked into a scrumptious cookie. —Larry Piklor, Johnsburg, Illinois
If you’ve tried all the hot chocolate mixes you can get your hands on and are still looking for more of that rich cocoa taste, you have to try these cookies. To save time before a holiday get-together, bake these cookies ahead and finish the final step once they’ve thawed.
3/85
Buttery Spritz Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
This tender spritz cookie recipe is quite eye-catching on my Christmas cookie tray. The dough is easy to work with, so it's fun to make these spritz cookies into a variety of festive shapes. This is hands-down the best spritz cookie recipe ever. —Beverly Launius, Sandwich, Illinois
Whether you have a vintage or new cookie press, it’s time to pull it out for these little beauties! Dip them in chocolate and add sprinkles for a bit more Christmas merriment.
4/85
Christmas Cutout Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Rich and buttery Christmas cutout cookies like these never last long at a party. They're one of my favorite homemade Christmas cookies. I use seasonal cutters to celebrate the holidays tastefully. —Lynn Burgess, Rolla, Missouri
These Christmas cookies are the ultimate way to get in the spirit and let your creativity run wild in the kitchen. Set up a decorating station with icing, sprinkles and piping tips.
5/85
Italian Rainbow Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
My family has made these classic Italian cookies for generations, and this homemade version is so much better than any average bakery's. They remain a much-anticipated treat during the holidays. —Cindy Casazza, Hopewell, New Jersey
To make these beautiful Italian rainbow cookies, you’ll need to seek out almond paste and food coloring. But the rest of the ingredients may be things you already have around your kitchen. If you love a dessert that’s more cake-like than cookie-like, you need to try this Christmas confection.
6/85
Christmas Wreath Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Cornflakes take the place of traditional Rice Krispies in these sweet, no-bake Christmas wreath cookies. Dressed up with green food coloring and red candies, they’re a pretty addition to cookie platters and dessert buffets. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Kids will love these no-bake marshmallow wreaths, and you’ll love not having to get every mixing bowl and cooking sheet out of the cupboard. To get the shape just right, work quickly once you microwave and mix the ingredients. In about 20 minutes, you’ll have adorable holly-specked wreaths to put in your cookie jar.
7/85
Fruitcake Christmas Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
As holiday gifts, these rich fruit-and nut-filled cookies are pretty and practical. These are great make-ahead Christmas cookies—the taste actually gets better over time! —Julia Funkhouser, Carson, Iowa
December is full of food holidays, and December 27 happens to be National Fruitcake Day. If you’re still in a food coma from Christmas leftovers and don’t want to bake a cake, try these fruitcake cookies instead.
8/85
Ugly Sweater Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Perhaps the most amazing thing about ugly sweater cookies is how cute they are. Try these classic gingerbreads on for size. —Christy Thelen, Kellogg, Iowa
If you’re looking to one-up your ugly Christmas sweater from last year, it’s time to break out these ugly sweater cookies. While the gingerbread cookie is a simple cutout, the icing will take a bit of patience. With practice, you’ll be piping out the cutest ugly sweaters of the season.
9/85
Pfeffernuesse Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
A German holiday tradition, these fragrant pfeffernuesse cookies pack a warm rush of spices in every bite. Also called peppernuts, they go wonderfully with coffee or tea. —Joanne Nelson, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Trying cookies from around the world can be a fun way to make your Christmas baking feel more adventurous. These spiced pfeffernuesse cookies are a German holiday tradition and pair well with a warm cup of coffee. Don’t be afraid to tweak this recipe to fit your tastes. For softer cookies, opt for light molasses. If you prefer a bit of a crunch in your sweets, make the cookies with dark molasses.
10/85
Chocolate Lebkuchen Cherry Balls
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s my twist on the traditional German holiday lebkuchen—with a surprise inside. —Arlene Erlbach, Morton Grove, Illinois
No-bake chocolate desserts could be just what you need around the holidays. This twist on traditional German lebkuchen has a cherry surprise on the inside and requires very few kitchen utensils. (Let’s be real—who doesn’t love a recipe that produces fewer dishes to wash?)
11/85
Linzer Tarts
From the Recipe Creator:
With a creamy chocolate and hazelnut filling, these decadent Christmas cookies look and taste amazing. Guests will never guess how relatively easy they are to make. —Mary Maddox, Bellmore, New York
Linzer cookies made with Nutella filling instead of jam? Absolutely! Though Linzer cookies require more detailed work than your average cookie, the final result will be worth the effort.
12/85
Reindeer Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Gather 'round the tree on Christmas Eve and feast on these adorable reindeer cookies. If you listen closely, you might hear reindeer hooves on the roof! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Looking for Christmas cookie ideas that can include the family? Look no further than these easier-than-ever cookies. Set up a workspace on your kitchen table with bowls full of candy eyes, broken pretzels, peanut butter cups and M&M’s. Let the kids get creative decorating their own reindeer faces.
13/85
Italian Horn Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
My family has been making these delicate, fruit-filled Italian horn cookies for generations. They’re light and flaky, with the look of an elegant old-world pastry. —Gloria Siddiqui, Houston, Texas
Check your freezer before starting this recipe. Do you have vanilla ice cream? If so, then bake away. These light, flaky cookies will be great when guests are too stuffed for a decadent dessert but still want a little something sweet at the end of their big holiday meals.
14/85
Gingerbread Men
From the Recipe Creator:
No holiday treat platter would be complete without gingerbread men cookies! This is a tried-and-true recipe I'm happy to share with you. —Mitzi Sentiff, Annapolis, Maryland
Gingerbread men are a must-have around the holidays—and they make any run-of-the-mill cookie platter so much more adorable. If you can’t get enough of this spiced holiday treat, combine these cookies with gingerbread house ideas and host a decorating party!
15/85
Raspberry Ribbons
From the Recipe Creator:
I make these attractive, buttery cookies to serve at our remote guest lodge, and all the cooks in the kitchen are addicted to them! —Patsy Wolfenden, Golden, British Columbia
These biscotti-shaped treats have a sweet surprise in the middle: a strip of raspberry jam spread across the center. Once these Christmas cookies are cooled, drizzle them with a vanilla glaze, let them cool and serve.
16/85
Tender Pecan Logs
From the Recipe Creator:
Folks always ask me to make these tender nutty logs. Not overly sweet, they're just right with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. —Joyce Beck, Gadsden, Alabama
A cookie covered in confectioners’ sugar? Yes, please. When you’re not quite feeling a whole slice of pecan pie but still want a slightly sweet and nutty dessert, these little pecan roll-ups might be just what you’re looking for.
17/85
Swedish Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
It's impossible to eat just one of these Swedish cookies. Naturally, they're a favorite with my Swedish husband and children—but anyone with a sweet tooth will appreciate this treat. My recipe is "well-traveled" among our friends and neighbors. —Sue Soderland, Elgin, Illinois
There’s a good chance this whole batch will be eaten, but they store well if there are leftovers. You can even freeze them for up to three months. When you’re serving these Christmas cookies, pair them with a hot cup of tea or an after-dinner coffee.
18/85
Russian Tea Cakes
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to present my favorite holiday cookies in a special way. I pile this fresh-baked Russian tea cakes recipe on pretty plates that I buy throughout the year, then wrap them with colored cellophane to give friends. —Valerie Hudson, Mason City, Iowa
These Russian tea cakes look just like a pile of snowballs, so they’re perfect if you’re looking for an easy Christmas cookie recipe. Typically, these cookies are made with pecans, but you can swap in walnuts, almonds or macadamia nuts if you’re looking for a slightly different flavor.
19/85
Hot Chocolate Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Using hot cocoa mix and marshmallow bits in the cookie dough really makes these hot chocolate cookies taste like the cozy drink. —Lisa Kaminski, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
If a warm cup of hot cocoa is your go-to holiday treat, then you’re definitely going to want to try this recipe. The marshmallow bits and hot cocoa mix play up the flavors you love—and they’ll make your cookie jar all the more seasonal. The recipe calls for vanilla marshmallow bits, but if you’re in a pinch, use mini marshmallows. Just keep in mind that mini marshmallows are softer than marshmallow bits, so they will melt while baking and won’t have the same look and texture.
20/85
Grandma’s Raspberry Rugelach
From the Recipe Creator:
I remember sitting on my great-grandmother's couch with a pad and pen in hand as she told me each ingredient and measurement for her special rugelach. Her recipe stands apart because it's a fun twist from typical versions. —Dalya Rubin, Boca Raton, Florida
Although rugelach is a Jewish dessert, it often finds its way onto Christmas cookie platters. For those who don’t love raspberry, try swapping in apricot jam instead. Before rolling up the dough, sprinkle the apricot jam with cinnamon sugar for a touch of spice.
21/85
Kolacky Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
As a child, I always looked forward to eating these goodies at Christmastime. Now I make them for my own family. —Sharon Kurtz, Emmaus, Pennsylvania
Apart from all the health benefits of walnuts, they’re also a tasty addition to cookies around the holidays. If you like to plan ahead, you can make the dough for these Christmas cookies up to two days in advance.
22/85
Butterscotch Gingerbread Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Every time I make these wonderful cookies, the spicy aroma takes me back to my childhood. I helped Mom make them and delivered them to neighbors. —Kara Cook, Elk Ridge, Utah
It can be hard to get creative with classic gingerbread, but this butterscotch variation does the trick. The sweet butterscotch mixed with the spiced gingerbread will make your house smell heavenly!
23/85
Chocolate Cherry Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These rich, fudgy cookies are chewy and studded with tangy dried cherries. It’s a good thing the recipe makes only a small batch, because we eat them all in one night! —Trisha Kruse, Eagle, Idaho
Looking for small-batch cookie recipes? Consider your search over. These fudgy chocolate cookies are packed with dried cherries and will make just enough to devour in one night (maybe two, if you’re lucky).
24/85
Pecan Tassies
From the Recipe Creator:
These pecan tassies are very good for parties and special occasions. You'll probably want to double the recipe, because they'll disappear in a hurry! —Joy Corie, Ruston, Louisiana
Pecan tassies are a go-to for those who prefer a nutty flavor to peppermint or gingerbread around Christmastime. A major perk of these cookies is that they can be frozen. Simply bake them when you have free time in your busy holiday schedule, and then thaw them in covered containers when you’re ready to serve.
25/85
Chocolate Sugar Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
I love gingerbread cookies, but my grandchildren don't like the ginger flavor. Now I use chocolate and watch them smile as they take that first bite of these chocolate cutout cookies. —Nancy Murphy, Mount Dora, Florida
Classic Christmas cookie recipes are fun to bring back every year, but it’s also fun to get adventurous. These cutouts are similar in look and texture to gingerbread, but they’re made with chocolate.
26/85
Cherry Snowballs
From the Recipe Creator:
A juicy maraschino cherry is the secret center tucked inside these special cookies. My mom was inspired to create these by a recipe she clipped out of a newspaper more than 30 years ago. —Evy Adams, West Seneca, New York
Maraschino cherries add an effortless garnish to classic cocktails, but have you ever tried them in cookies? These coconut-covered snowballs with a cherry inside will add a bit of sweetness to your Christmas cookie display.
27/85
Vanilla-Butter Sugar Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These butter sugar cookies are one of my favorite cookies to bake for Christmas. The dough recipe is versatile, so you can use it for other holidays too. Children like to help with the cookie decorating. —Cynthia Ettel, Glencoe, Minnesota
It’s hard to beat a buttery sugar cookie. Just be sure to avoid making substitutions when it comes to butter. If you use whipped butter or reduced-fat butter, you might end up with flat, tough cookies.
28/85
Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
When I baked these moist, fudgy cookies for the first time, my three preschool children went wild over them! But I like them because they're lower in fat and easy to mix and bake. —Maria Groff, Ephrata, Pennsylvania
For chocolate lovers who like easy recipes, these fudgy crinkle cookies will be your new go-to. To keep the rounded shape of crinkle cookies, remember to leave the dough in a ball shape when you add it to the cookie sheet. Pressing the dough into a flat disk will result in flat cookies that don’t crinkle as they bake.
29/85
Jelly-Topped Sugar Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
On busy days, I appreciate this quick-to-make jelly-topped cookie. Top each sugar cookie with your favorite flavor of jam or jelly. —June Quinn, Kalamazoo, Michigan
An easy way to spruce up a plain sugar cookie is to add a topping of your favorite jam or jelly. Jam and jelly recipes are easy to make at home. But if you want to save time, grab your favorites from a grocery store and get right into the Christmas cookie baking.
30/85
Scottish Shortbread
From the Recipe Creator:
My mother, who is of Scottish heritage, passed this shortbread recipe, along with other favorite recipes, on to me. When I entered this treat at our local fair, it won a red ribbon. —Rose Mabee, Selkirk, Manitoba
Shortbread always seems to be a hit at Christmas, and it’s no wonder why. With only three ingredients, you can bake a delicious batch of cookies. Don’t forget to prick holes into the tops of these Christmas cookies so the steam from the melting butter has somewhere to escape.
31/85
Chocolate Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These chocolate peanut butter no-bake cookies bring back fond memories of my mom. They were her favorite, and she always made a batch when she knew company was coming. —Jacquie McTaggart, Independence, Iowa
If you have a Christmas party to attend and don’t want to dirty a dozen dishes, go for a no-bake option. These chocolate peanut butter no-bake cookies can be made a day ahead and left in the fridge to chill and set overnight. If you do want to make these the day of a get-together, make sure the cookies have time to set for at least one hour before serving. This will prevent them from being too gooey.
32/85
Coconut Cranberry Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
When my husband came home from the grocery store with six bags of fresh cranberries, I launched a full-scale effort to creatively use them all. Bursting with tart and sweet flavors, these cranberry coconut cookies are my favorite result from that experiment. —Amy Alberts, Appleton, Wisconsin
The cranberry bits and flaky coconut texture just can’t be beat during the holidays. The cranberries add just the right amount of tartness.
33/85
Chocolate Chip Meringue Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of my most popular recipes. Shape them into hearts for Valentine's Day or make them as drop cookies for other occasions. —Debbie Tilley, Riverview, Florida
Meringue cookies are a sweet addition to any Christmas cookie recipe collection. When the cookies are done baking, turn the oven off and leave the cookies to cool in the oven. This will let them gradually come down to room temperature and prevent the meringue from cracking.
34/85
Butter Pecan Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
When my daughter was a teen, these butter pecan cookies earned her blue ribbons from two county fairs. Then a few years ago, her own daughter took home a blue ribbon for the same cookie. Needless to say, these mouthwatering morsels are winners! —Martha Thefield, Cedartown, Georgia
Nutty cookies always seem to go over well around the holidays. If you’re hosting a holiday cookie exchange, whip these up and have some fun with the recipe. You can brown the butter or roll the cookies in sugar to add more texture and sweetness.
35/85
Snowball Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
This sweet, nutty pecan meltaways recipe is a tradition in our house at Christmastime, but the treats are delightful any time of the year. —Alberta McKay, Bartlesville, Oklahoma
Anything covered in confectioners’ sugar has to be delicious, right? Try these pecan meltaways when you want something a little bit sweet and a little bit nutty. Have fun making a few variations of this cookie by adding different types of nuts, like almonds or macadamia nuts.
36/85
Cranberry Shortbread Stars
From the Recipe Creator:
My family loves shortbread and I love cranberries, so I decided to put the two together to make cranberry shortbread cookies. The star shape is a festive addition to my holiday cookie tray. —Sonya Labbe, West Hollywood, California
We have several fun shortbread recipes, but these cranberry shortbread cookies might take the cake for the best wintry version. Dried cranberries are best for this recipe. With a few adjustments, you can use fresh or frozen if you have them available.
37/85
Snickerdoodles
From the Recipe Creator:
The history of these whimsically named treats has been widely disputed, but their popularity is undeniable. Help yourself to one of our soft cinnamon-sugared cookies and see for yourself. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Soft, pillowy snickerdoodles might be one of the coziest Christmas cookies ever. This recipe uses staple ingredients and pairs well with a cup of black tea or coffee.
38/85
Grandma’s Star Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband's grandma would make these butter cutouts only with a star cookie cutter. I use various shapes for celebrations throughout the year. —Jenny Brown, West Lafayette, Indiana
When you need a recipe that will produce a lot of cookies, add these star-shaped stunners to your list. The recipe makes dozens of slightly citrusy cookies that are great for sharing.
39/85
Almond Raspberry Stars
From the Recipe Creator:
The first Christmas that I baked these, I ended up quickly making a second batch! The whole family enjoyed them. —Darlene Weaver, Lebanon, Pennsylvania
Christmas cookie cutters are fun to experiment with during the holidays. Why not use two sizes to create a decorative touch on a simple cookie? If you don’t want to use stars, try a different shape, like snowflakes or Christmas trees.
40/85
Kipplens
From the Recipe Creator:
My Great-Aunt Hilda makes this recipe every Christmas, and everybody loves them! Kipplens taste a lot like Mexican wedding cakes, but I like my aunt's version better. —Susan Bohannon, Kokomo, Indiana
If one of your favorite Mexican desserts is a Mexican wedding cake, then give this similar recipe for kipplens a try. You can’t go wrong with a buttery, nutty cookie covered in confectioners’ sugar. Each cookie looks as if it were made to be a Christmas decoration.
41/85
Gingerbread House Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my favorite molasses cookie. I use the recipe not only to create little houses for Christmas but also to make bunnies for Easter and stars for the Fourth of July. —Karen Haen, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
These are just the cookies to put your decorating skills to the test. Make the buttercream icing festive by adding red or green food coloring.
42/85
Cashew Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Some merry dairy snacking is guaranteed when you pass out these cashew-packed goodies! I found the recipe years ago in a flier promoting dairy products. It's been this farm wife's standby ever since. —June Lindquist, Hammond, Wisconsin
Dairy runs the show in this recipe for buttery cashew cookies. Perfectly golden and rich in flavor, these cookies will brighten up a tin full of Christmas cookies.
43/85
Hidden Mint Morsels
From the Recipe Creator:
Is it a cookie or a candy? No matter which answer folks choose, they find these minty morsels yummy. The recipe makes so much that you can whip up tons of gifts at once. —Adina Skilbred, Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin
Making copycat Girl Scouts cookies is a fun way to enjoy your favorite treats even when they’re not in season. While these minty morsels aren’t an exact match for Thin Mints, they are pretty close. This recipe makes 10 dozen cookies, so bake it when you want to share with loved ones!
44/85
White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Hawaiian nuts and melty morsels make a fantastic combination in these buttery white chocolate macadamia nut cookies. —Cathy Lennon, Newport, Tennessee
Our Test Kitchen found the best white chocolate chips, and you might want to grab them the next time you’re at the grocery store. These cookies call for white baking chips and crunchy macadamia nuts. Besides the type of white chocolate, you can also choose your favorite macadamia nut. Try salted, roasted or plain.
45/85
Candied Fruit Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These no-fuss candied fruit cookies are both nutty and fruity, so they're always a hit at holiday time. —Florence Monson, Denver, Colorado
If you’ve made snacks like oatmeal date bars before, you know how amazing the texture of dates is in baked goods. These candied cookies are filled with fruits like dates and cherries and sprinkled with bits of nuts for added crunch.
46/85
Cranberry Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Chock-full of cranberries, chocolate chips and nuts, these cookies are fun to eat. They offer a change of pace from traditional Christmas cookies. But don't wait until December to make them. My family requests them all year round. —Betty Albee, Buhl, Idaho
These little cookies are packed with all sorts of flavors: chocolate chips, cranberries, chopped pecans and English toffee bits. Swap in almond extract for the vanilla extract for even more of a flavor burst.
47/85
Ricotta Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
A single batch of these ricotta cheese cookies is never enough. I usually make one to give away and two more to keep at home. The ricotta cheese makes the morsels extra moist. —Doris Marshall, Strasburg, Pennsylvania
Ricotta cheese recipes are delicious for dinner, but for dessert? That’s a whole new story. These fluffy, soft cookies might just turn into your favorite big-batch Christmas cookies. Keep in mind when baking that lightly salted butter should be used if you want to retain the buttery flavor of the cookie. Unsalted or sweet butter could change the flavor.
48/85
Church Window Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These church window cookies are a hit with kids—the little ones just love the colored marshmallows! —Emmilie Gaston, Wabash, Indiana
This is such a simple recipe, and it makes such a cute treat. The best part is that you won’t even have to turn on the oven. Melt chocolate chips, mix in marshmallows and nuts, roll the mixture in coconut, chill and serve. It’s that easy.
49/85
Buttery Ganache Cookie Cups
From the Recipe Creator:
Our family wanted to share our love of ganache-filled cupcakes, so we made them into cookies. Even better: We bake the cookies in muffin cups, fill with ganache and get the best of both worlds! —Adela Srinivasan, Parker, Colorado
There are chocolate cookies—and then there are ganache-filled cookie cups. How could we pass this up for our list of best Christmas cookie recipes? Making homemade ganache is easier than it might seem, and it will taste fantastic with the buttery soft cookie cup.
50/85
Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Santa is sure to stop by your house if you leave these triple-chocolate peppermint cookies waiting for him. They're quick and easy for the whole family to make together. —Teresa Ralston, New Albany, Ohio
These merry little cookies are a peppermint and chocolate match made in heaven. The best part is that they are so adaptable to how you like to decorate. You can keep the recipe as is, frost the cookies and top with crushed peppermint, or you can dip the cookies in chocolate and then sprinkle peppermint over the top. However you choose to make these cookies your own, they’re sure to be some of the first to go at the Christmas party.
51/85
Mom’s Buttermilk Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
I treasure my mother’s recipe for these comforting cookie pillows. The tender treats are topped with thick frosting and a sprinkling of chopped walnuts. —Jane Darling, Simi Valley, California
There are many uses for buttermilk, but one of our favorites has to be when it’s used in Christmas cookies. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can always make a homemade version with white vinegar, lemon juice and milk.
52/85
Coconut Drops
From the Recipe Creator:
Red raspberry preserves add a festive flair to these tender coconut drops. Perfect for potlucks and cookie exchanges, the shaped cookies never last long when I make them for my husband and two sons. —Ellen Marie Byler, Munfordville, Kentucky
You can stick with raspberry preserves for these coconut Christmas cookies or you can grab different preserves to switch up the color. If you’re not into fruit in your sweets, you can replace the preserves with chocolate.
53/85
Amish Sugar Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These easy-to-make old-fashioned Amish sugar cookies simply melt in your mouth! I've passed this recipe around to many friends. After I gave it to my sister, she entered the cookies in a local fair and won best of show. —Sylvia Ford, Kennett, Missouri
There are a lot of uses for cream of tartar, but one of the most important uses in baking is to prevent sugar from clumping together. Since sugar cookies—you know—use a lot of sugar, cream of tartar is a vital ingredient.
54/85
Meringue Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These sweet little swirls are light as can be. They're all you need after a big, special dinner. —Jenni Sharp, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Meringue cookies can be so adorable if you bake them right. If you have tried making meringue and are unsure why your cookies look flat, it could be because the egg whites are too cold or because you’ve added the sugar all at once instead of little by little. It takes time to get the hang of meringue!
55/85
Italian Chocolate Spice Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
I recently found this old family recipe in my mom’s kitchen. I made a few adjustments to streamline the process, and the cookies turned out wonderfully. —Shawn Barto, Winter Garden, Florida
Spice cookies are extra-comforting around the holidays. This version has chocolate and a glaze that you can use to stick on festive sprinkles.
56/85
Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Hints of orange and cinnamon highlight these Christmastime classics. I like to add colorful sprinkles before baking them. The recipe is from a booklet that came with a cookie press in the 1950s. I still have the press! —Sarah Bedia, Lake Jackson, Texas
Homemade cookies are thoughtful gifts for neighbors, and these cream cheese spritz cookies will definitely bring the charm. In one hour, you can have several dozen cookies prepped and ready to be passed out in cute winter tins.
57/85
Chocolate Shortbread Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe has been in my files for a long time, probably from when I first learned to bake. Any chocolate lover will like these melt-in-your-mouth cookies. I make them year-round with variations. They're even richer with a thin coat of icing or as a sandwich cookie with frosting in the middle. —Sarah Bueckert, Austin, Manitoba
Shortbread cookies are fun and easy to make all year round, but they’re a classic Christmas cookie. This recipe is for a chocolate version that can be spruced up with a layer of icing or turned into a sandwich cookie.
58/85
Easy Mint Thins
From the Recipe Creator:
My friends often try to guess the ingredients, but I never tell them how simple they are to make. They taste just like the Girl Scouts cookies. They're perfect for Christmas and bake sales. —Jennifer Setser, Morgantown, Indiana
This Thin Mint copycat recipe will come in so handy during the holidays. And to be honest, they’re even more beautiful than the originals! The chocolate is infused with peppermint extract, and you can add crushed spearmint or sprinkle chopped Andes mints on the top.
59/85
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's proof that peanut butter and chocolate just belong together. These peanut butter blossom cookies are an easy family favorite and never fail to make my children smile. —Tammie Merrill, Wake Forest, North Carolina
We’d be remiss to leave out a peanut butter cookie on this roundup of our favorite Christmas cookies. These blossom cookies are topped with a chocolate kiss and you can use light or dark brown sugar in the dough, whichever one you have on hand.
60/85
Lemon Snowflakes
From the Recipe Creator:
You’ll need just four ingredients to make these delightful lemon snowflake cookies. Confectioners’ sugar highlights the cracked tops to give them their snowflake appearance. —Linda Barry, Dianna, Texas
Desserts with four ingredients are necessary during busy holiday seasons. These lemon snowflake cookies don’t take a lot of work and produce such a beautiful result. Because the cookies aren’t iced or decorated, they can be stacked in airtight containers for easy travel.
61/85
Elf Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These rosy-cheeked elf cookies will make a showstopping addition to your holiday cookie tray. Or, set them atop cupcakes for an extra-cute treat. —Josh Rink, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Are these the cutest Christmas cutout cookies you’ve ever seen? These little elves are sure to be a showstopper on a dessert table or as a gift for family and friends.
62/85
Dipped Gingersnaps
From the Recipe Creator:
I get tremendous satisfaction making and giving time-tested Yuletide treats like these dipped gingersnaps. Dipping them in white chocolate makes much-loved cookies even more special. —Laura Kimball, West Jordan, Utah
Kick your gingersnap baking game up a notch with these dipped versions of a Christmas classic. Because these are gingersnaps, they should be a bit more crunchy than your typical chewy gingerbread cookies. All that means is a bit longer in the oven. Then they’ll be ready to dip once cooled.
63/85
Peanut Butter Chews
From the Recipe Creator:
These simple peanut butter cornflake cookies are a snap to make. In fact, I can whip them up in minutes for school lunches. The little treats are a big hit with any crowd—young or old. —Marg Mitro, Grafton, Ontario
In only 20 minutes, you can have dozens of these peanut butter balls ready to go. The best part is that they’re a five-ingredient dessert. They’re quick to make and the prep time is shorter than that of a lot of desserts.
64/85
Kourabiedes
From the Recipe Creator:
I had to bake something from my heritage for school. So, I made this heavenly kourabiedes recipe. —Rebecca Sprague, St. Louis, Missouri
These cookies use basic baking ingredients and yield delicious buttery cookies. You can make the recipe your own by adding chopped nuts or by trying out different extracts like almond or orange.
65/85
Molasses Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
My family always requests these soft molasses cookies. These chewy cookies are also perfect for shipping as holiday gifts or to troops overseas. —Kristine Chayes, Smithtown, New York
Bite-sized cookies are cute, but giant molasses cookies add a little more fun to Christmas cookie tins. These cookies travel well and you can adapt the recipe with different types of molasses based on your personal preference.
66/85
Holiday Cornflake Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
I can't seem to make enough of these cornflake wreaths around the holidays. The cookies firm up quickly, so you'll need to place the Red Hots right away. —Kathleen Hedger, Fairview Heights, Illinois
There are many creative cornflake recipes, but these have to be the cutest ones for Christmas. These are a great option when you have too much going on in the oven and need a quick stovetop recipe.
67/85
Cuccidati
From the Recipe Creator:
The compliments from family and friends make these Sicilian cookies worth the effort. It’s the best recipe I’ve found! —Carolyn Fafinski, Dunkirk, New York
If you’re tired of making the same recipes every year, it’s time to change things up. These Sicilian cuccidati are filled with delicious fruits and nuts. You can always get creative and add other flavors like cinnamon and chocolate.
68/85
Molasses Crinkle Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
You can treat yourself to one or two of my crackle cookies without guilt. Most molasses cookies are loaded with butter and have way too much sugar, but not mine. You would never know these are so low in fat. —Jean L. Ecos, Hartland, Wisconsin
Many cookie recipes are filled with butter, but these crackle cookies call for only a small amount of canola oil. Unlike sugar cookies or gingerbread, these are meant to crackle a bit as they bake, so don’t worry if the dough separates a bit.
69/85
Santa Claus Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Store-bought peanut butter sandwich cookies become jolly Santas with white chocolate, colored sugar, mini chips and Red Hots. —Mary Kaufenberg, Shakopee, Minnesota
Nutter Butters, but make them look festive? We’re here for it. You can definitely get the kids involved with decorating these easy cookies. Doesn’t get much better than prebaked cookies—you just have to dip and sprinkle!
70/85
Cherry Blossom Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
Topped with a chocolate kiss, these cherry-flavored cookies look super cute on a dessert tray. Share them with family and friends. —Joy Yurk, Grafton, Wisconsin
Chocolate and cherry create such a delightful mix of flavors for the holidays. The bright red color of these cookies is festive and they take only 10 minutes to bake. For easy cleanup, place parchment on your baking sheets before popping these in the oven.
71/85
Touch-of-Gold Christmas Trees
From the Recipe Creator:
You can decorate these pretty Christmas trees with other types of sprinkles if you don't have the gold dust. The filling alone makes the cookies special and so delicious! —Linda Sweet, Cornwall, New York
If you’re attending a classy Christmas party, these cookies will be a great dessert to take. They’re dusted with edible gold and filled with Nutella.
72/85
Oatmeal Coconut Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
When my two daughters were young, their great-grandma made them coconut cookies with oats. Thankfully, she shared the recipe. —Debra Dorn, Dunnellon, Florida
This recipe calls for old-fashioned oats, so make sure you have those on hand before baking. Different types of oats affect baking textures and consistency, so stick with the recipe for a soft, chewy cookie.
73/85
Peppermint Meltaways
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe for peppermint meltaways is very pretty and festive-looking on a cookie platter. I put these peppermint cookies in bright holiday containers to give to family and friends. And yes, they really do melt in your mouth! —Denise Wheeler, Newaygo, Michigan
These peppermint meltaways are cute and perfect for sharing. These Christmas cookies are best when fresh but can be stored for up to three days if you have any left over.
74/85
Rum Balls
From the Recipe Creator:
I make these rum balls for special occasions with my wonderful family and friends. The treats are so easy to make and pack a festive punch. —Diane Duschanek, Council Bluffs, Iowa
Going to an adult Christmas party? Take these rum balls with you and watch them disappear from the cookie platter. You can customize them by rolling them in shredded coconut or cocoa powder instead of confectioners’ sugar.
75/85
Sugar Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
This sugar cookie dates back to a Swedish woman born in 1877! Her daughter, Esther Davis, shared the recipe with me and she came up with all the exact measurements, since the original cookies were mixed by feel and taste. These are my favorite cookies and I hope they'll become yours as well. —Helen Wallis, Vancouver, Washington
There are many sugar cookie recipes out there, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. This recipe calls for shortening and butter, so make sure you have both in your kitchen before you begin baking.
76/85
Chocolate Lebkuchen
From the Recipe Creator:
Having lived in Germany, I try to keep my German cooking as authentic as possible. This lovely lebkuchen recipe is a culinary Christmas custom. —Cathy Lemmon, Quinlan, Texas
German Christmas cookies have flavors and textures that classic American cookies sometimes lack. These chocolate lebkuchen take a bit of prep time, but they are completely worth it in the end.
77/85
First-Place Coconut Macaroons
From the Recipe Creator:
These coconut macaroon cookies earned me a first-place ribbon at the county fair. They remain my husband's favorites—whenever I make them to give away, he always asks me where his batch is! I especially like the fact that this recipe makes a small enough batch for the two of us to nibble on. —Penny Ann Habeck, Shawano, Wisconsin
Can you ever have enough cookies that remind you of snowballs and winter wonderlands? These coconut macaroons are bite-sized perfection, and the batch size is ideal when baking for a family—not too many and not too few, so everyone can enjoy a couple.
78/85
Lemon Biscotti
From the Recipe Creator:
With the growing popularity of gourmet coffees, cappuccino and espresso, I’m finding lots of people enjoy these classic Sicilian dipping cookies. —Carrie Sherrill, Forestville, Wisconsin
Whether you like your daily cup of coffee in the morning or as a post-dinner drink, pair it with these lemon anise biscotti. You can keep them plain if you like a simple cookie to dip in your coffee, or you can drizzle these biscotti with lemon glaze and top with lemon zest. Once cooled and stored in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks.
79/85
Red Velvet White Chip Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These cookies are soft, chewy and taste as good as they sound. The first time I baked them, I took them to an aunt's yard sale. Now they’re my go-to for any special event. —Samantha Gstalder, Montoursville, Pennsylvania
These cookies are as rich and velvety as Santa’s suit. They’re perfectly chewy for people who don’t like crunchy cookies! If you want to bake these early and freeze them, simply thaw them before serving.
80/85
Thumbprint Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
These buttery little rounds add beautiful color to a platter of treats. Fill the thumbprint in the center with any fruit preserves you like. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
If you’re looking for small-batch cookies, these colorful thumbprint cookies are perfect. Mix and match the preserves you use, or keep them all uniform.
81/85
Date Pinwheel Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
My granddaughter nicknamed my mother Cookie Grandma because she made wonderful cookies—including these crisp and chewy treats. —Donna Grace, Clancy, Montana
These Christmas cookies are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re one of those desserts that look harder to make than they actually are. Make sure you save time for chilling: These cookies need to stay in the fridge overnight.
82/85
Meringue Kisses
From the Recipe Creator:
There's a nice chocolaty surprise inside these sweet kisses. They're my husband's top choice each Christmas. —Tami Henke, Lockport, Illinois
Meringue cookies are a light treat, and they’re nice for when you want just a hint of something sweet after a big meal. These meringue kisses have a chocolate center for a surprise bite.
83/85
Cranberry Slices
From the Recipe Creator:
The holidays wouldn't be complete without homemade cookies, and these sturdy treats are perfect for shipping. —Stacy Duffy, Chicago, Illinois
Cranberry recipes are annual favorites for a reason! The small, tart berries are one of those irresistible cookie ingredients. They aren’t overly sweet and add a festive flair to any cookie tray. These bars are a fun shape to package in little gift bags for loved ones at Christmastime.
84/85
Chewy Oatmeal Cookies
From the Recipe Creator:
I packed chocolate chips, raisins, nuts and cinnamon into my oatmeal cookie recipe. These soft cookies are easy to make. Best of all, our kids love them! —Janis Plageman, Lynden, Washington
Oatmeal cookies are ideal for bakers who like experimenting with flavors and add-ins. Have fun with these Christmas cookies by adding dried cranberries or chopped dates. You can use old-fashioned oats or quick-cooking oats.
85/85
Lemon Snowdrops
From the Recipe Creator:
I save my snowdrop cookies for special occasions. The crunchy, buttery sandwich cookie has a puckery lemon filling. —Bernice Martinoni, Petaluma, California
Although lemon is often synonymous with spring or summer, these snowdrop cookies add a pleasant tanginess to any Christmas cookie display. To save time, make the cookies ahead and freeze them. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cookies in covered containers and make the filling fresh. Add a wintery touch by dusting the cookies with confectioners’ sugar.
Christmas Cookie Recipes FAQ
What are the most popular Christmas cookies?
The most popular Christmas cookies are classic recipes like gingerbread cookies, cutout cookies, gingersnaps, frosted sugar cookies, and thumbprint cookies with jam, chocolate kisses or icing.
Global cookies are also popular around the holidays. There are many Italian Christmas cookies, as well as Linzer cookies from Austria, shortbread from Scotland, Swiss zimtsterne and Norwegian rosettes.
Beyond the festive options, classic cookies like chocolate chip, peanut butter and oatmeal raisin are commonly baked around Christmas.
What’s the best way to decorate Christmas cookies?
The best way to decorate Christmas cookies is with a thick frosting and holiday sprinkles, especially if you’re decorating with little kids. But there are so many ways to decorate Christmas cookies!
For detailed gingerbread or flooded cutout cookies, royal icing is your best bet. While there are some common royal icing mistakes to avoid, the learning curve is small, so you’ll get a hand on this method quickly.
If you’re looking for frosting-free decorations, try using an embossed rolling pin or cookie stamps to imprint a pattern or message in the dough.
Are there Christmas cookie recipes for dietary restrictions?
There are certainly Christmas cookie recipes for those with dietary restrictions. Gluten-free Christmas cookies include macarons, amaretti, peanut butter cookies, meringue and gluten-free versions of classic cookies. Other allergy-free cookies could be nut-free cookie butter blossoms or egg-free pignoli cookies.
For diabetics, sugar-free cookies and diabetic-friendly cookies are your best bet.
