Christmas is the perfect time of year to indulge in delicious treats, and there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a freshly baked batch of cookies. Whether you’re looking for classic flavors, festive twists, or something a little bit different, there’s a cookie recipe out there for everyone. In this article, we’ve gathered 50 of the best cookie recipe ideas for Christmas, so you can find the perfect treat to share with your friends and family. From gingerbread men and sugar cookies to peppermint mocha and bourbon pecan pie, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. So grab your apron and let’s get baking!
1. Peppermint chocolate chip cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and peppermint extract, and then mixing in flour, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm on the outside but still slightly soft in the middle. The finished cookies have a crisp and minty flavor, with rich chocolate chips throughout.
2. Gingerbread cookies: These classic Christmas cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, molasses, and spices, such as ginger, cinnamon, and allspice. The dough is then rolled out, cut into shapes using cookie cutters, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and spicy flavor, with a slightly crisp texture.
3. Sugar cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter and sugar, and then mixing in flour, eggs, and vanilla extract. The dough is then rolled out, cut into shapes using cookie cutters, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a light and delicate flavor, and can be decorated with frosting and sprinkles in a variety of festive designs.
4. Linzer cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter and sugar, and then mixing in flour and ground almonds to form a soft dough. The dough is then rolled out, cut into shapes using cookie cutters, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The cookies are then sandwiched together with a layer of jam, creating a sweet and delicious treat.
5. Chocolate crinkle cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and cocoa powder, and then mixing in flour, eggs, and vanilla extract. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and rolled in powdered sugar before baking. The cookies are baked until the outside is firm and crinkly, while the inside remains soft and fudgy. The finished cookies have a rich and chocolatey flavor, with a crackly texture on the outside.
6. Snickerdoodles: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour, baking powder, and eggs. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and rolled in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking. The cookies are baked until the outside is crisp and the inside is soft and chewy. The finished cookies have a sweet and spicy flavor, with a soft and tender texture.
7. Oatmeal raisin cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour, oats, and raisins. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a hearty and flavorful taste, with a soft and chewy texture.
8. Lemon snowdrop cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and lemon zest, and then mixing in flour and corn starch. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The cookies are then rolled in powdered sugar while they are still warm, creating a light and fluffy texture. The finished cookies have a refreshing and tangy flavor, with a delicate and tender texture.
9. Russian tea cakes: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour, pecans, and powdered sugar. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The cookies are then rolled in powdered sugar again while they are still warm, creating a delicate and delicate texture. The finished cookies have a rich and buttery flavor, with a slightly nutty taste from the pecans. They are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
10. Spiced nut cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. The dough is then mixed with a variety of chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, and almonds, and rolled into balls. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a warm and spicy flavor, with a crunchy texture from the nuts.
11. Lemon poppy seed cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and lemon zest, and then mixing in flour, poppy seeds, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a refreshing and tangy flavor, with a delicate crunch from the poppy seeds.
12. Cranberry white chocolate cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour, white chocolate chips, and dried cranberries. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and indulgent flavor, with a tart and fruity taste from the cranberries.
13. Molasses cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and molasses, and then mixing in flour, spices, and baking soda. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and spicy flavor, with a soft and chewy texture.
14. Raspberry thumbprint cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, and the center of each ball is pressed with the tip of your thumb to create an indentation. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, the indentations are filled with a dollop of raspberry jam, creating a sweet and fruity treat.
15. Cinnamon roll cookies: These cookies are made by rolling out a sheet of cookie dough and spreading it with a mixture of melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. The dough is then rolled up into a log shape, chilled in the fridge, and sliced into rounds. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a sweet and spicy flavor, with a soft and tender texture.
16. Maple pecan cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and maple syrup, and then mixing in flour, pecans, and baking powder. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and nutty flavor, with a subtle sweetness from the maple syrup.
17. Chocolate cherry cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and cocoa powder, and then mixing in flour, chocolate chips, and dried cherries. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and chocolatey flavor, with a tart and fruity taste from the cherries.
18. Oatmeal chocolate chip cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour, oats, and chocolate chips. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a hearty and satisfying flavor, with a rich chocolate taste from the chips.
19. Peanut butter blossoms: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and peanut butter, and then mixing in flour and baking soda. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, a Hershey’s kiss is placed in the center of each cookie, creating a sweet and indulgent treat.
20. Spritz cookies: These cookies are made by pressing a soft dough through a cookie press, using a variety of different shapes and designs to create festive cookies. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges.
21. Apricot thumbprint cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and apricot jam, and then mixing in flour and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, and the center of each ball is pressed with the tip of your thumb to create an indentation. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, the indentations are filled with a dollop of more apricot jam, creating a sweet and fruity treat.
22. Chocolate pistachio cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and cocoa powder, and then mixing in flour, pistachios, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and chocolatey flavor, with a crunchy texture from the pistachios.
23. Orange spice cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and orange zest, and then mixing in flour, spices, and baking powder. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a zesty and spicy flavor, with a soft and tender texture.
24. Almond lace cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and almond extract, and then mixing in flour and a little milk. The dough is then spooned onto a baking sheet in small circles, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a delicate and lacy texture, with a rich and nutty flavor.
25. Rum balls: These cookies are made by mixing together crushed cookies, cocoa powder, sugar, and rum, and then rolling the mixture into balls. The balls are then rolled in cocoa powder or chopped nuts, and chilled until firm. The finished cookies have a rich and boozy flavor, with a fudgy texture.
26. Peanut butter cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and peanut butter, and then mixing in flour and baking powder. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and nutty flavor, with a slightly crispy texture.
27. Anise cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and anise extract, and then mixing in flour and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a warm and spicy flavor, with a delicate and tender texture.
28. Peppermint bark cookies: These cookies are made by pressing a mixture of melted chocolate and crushed peppermint candies into a sheet of cookie dough. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, the cookies are broken into pieces, creating a delicious and festive treat.
29. Coconut macaroons: These cookies are made by mixing together shredded coconut, sugar, egg whites, and vanilla extract, and then scooping the mixture onto a baking sheet in small mounds. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and coconutty flavor, with a soft and chewy texture.
30. Chocolate cherry thumbprint cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and cocoa powder, and then mixing in flour and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, and the center of each ball is pressed with the tip of your thumb to create an indentation. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, the indentations are filled with a dollop of cherry jam, creating a rich and chocolatey treat.
31. Spiced apple cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and apple sauce, and then mixing in flour, spices, and baking powder. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a warm and spicy flavor, with a hint of apple and a soft and tender texture.
32. Honey almond cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and honey, and then mixing in flour, almond flour, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and nutty flavor, with a delicate and tender texture.
33. Chai spice cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour, chai spice mix, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a warm and spicy flavor, with a delicate and tender texture.
34. Cranberry orange cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and orange zest, and then mixing in flour, dried cranberries, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a tangy and fruity flavor, with a soft and tender texture.
35. Chocolate hazelnut cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and cocoa powder, and then mixing in flour, hazelnuts, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and chocolatey flavor, with a nutty taste from the hazelnuts.
36. Raspberry swirl cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour and a little milk. The dough is then rolled out into a thin layer, and a layer of raspberry jam is spooned over the top. The dough is then rolled up into a log shape, chilled in the fridge, and sliced into rounds. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a sweet and fruity flavor, with a delicate and tender texture.
37. Pecan sandies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour, pecans, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and nutty flavor, with a slightly crispy texture.
38. Peppermint meringue cookies: These cookies are made by whipping egg whites and sugar until they form stiff peaks, and then folding in peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candies. The mixture is then spooned onto a baking sheet in small mounds, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a light and airy texture, with a crisp and minty flavor.
39. Hazelnut biscotti: These cookies are made by mixing together flour, sugar, eggs, and hazelnuts, and then shaping the dough into logs. The logs are baked until they are firm, and then sliced into cookies. The cookies are then baked again until they are crisp and golden brown. The finished cookies have a crunchy and nutty flavor, with a slightly sweet taste.
40. Lemon lavender cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and lemon zest, and then mixing in flour and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, the cookies are dipped in a lavender-infused glaze, creating a refreshing and floral treat.
41. Eggnog cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and eggnog, and then mixing in flour, nutmeg, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and creamy flavor, with a hint of spice from the nutmeg.
42. Orange cardamom cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and orange zest, and then mixing in flour, cardamom, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a zesty and spicy flavor, with a delicate and tender texture.
43. Pumpkin pie cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice, and then mixing in flour, pumpkin puree, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a warm and spicy flavor, with a soft and tender texture.
44. Peppermint mocha cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and cocoa powder, and then mixing in flour, instant coffee, and crushed peppermint candies. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a rich and indulgent flavor, with a crisp and minty taste from the peppermint.
45. Spiked eggnog cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and eggnog, and then mixing in flour, nutmeg, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, the cookies are brushed with a mixture of eggnog and rum, creating a boozy and festive treat.
46. Mincemeat thumbprint cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, and the center of each ball is pressed with the tip of your thumb to create an indentation. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, the indentations are filled with a dollop of mincemeat, creating a rich and fruity treat.
47. Caramel apple cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and apple sauce, and then mixing in flour, cinnamon, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, the cookies are dipped in melted caramel, creating a rich and indulgent treat.
48. Bourbon pecan pie cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour, pecans, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, the cookies are brushed with a mixture of bourbon and maple syrup, creating a rich and indulgent treat.
49. Orange clove cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and orange zest, and then mixing in flour, cloves, and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, chilled in the fridge, and baked until the cookies are firm and slightly golden around the edges. The finished cookies have a zesty and spicy flavor, with a delicate and tender texture.
50. Nutella thumbprint cookies: These cookies are made by creaming together butter, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then mixing in flour and a little milk. The dough is then rolled into balls, and the center of each ball is pressed with the tip of your thumb to create an indentation. The cookies are then baked until they are firm and slightly golden around the edges. Once they are cool, the indentations are filled with a dollop of Nutella, creating a rich and indulgent treat.
