40 Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes for 2025: Full Instructions & Step-by-Step Guide

The holiday season isn’t complete without a tray of freshly baked cookies, and there’s no better way to spread festive cheer than with homemade Christmas treats. From classic favorites like chocolate chip to festive options like peppermint patty and white chocolate cranberry, this guide features 40 easy and delicious recipes that will wow your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer, these recipes are simple, fun, and perfect for celebrating the season. So, preheat your oven and get ready to make your Christmas extra sweet!

1. Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp cream of tartar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring spoons
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (optional)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until fully combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls or use cookie cutters for fun shapes. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden. Let the cookies cool before decorating with icing or sprinkles.

2. Gingerbread Cookies

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 ½ tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (gingerbread man or other shapes)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt in a bowl.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: Cream the butter and brown sugar together. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and blend until a dough forms. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll and Cut: Roll dough on a floured surface and cut with cookie cutters.
6. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are firm. Cool before decorating.

3. Snickerdoodles

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp cinnamon (for rolling)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Shallow bowl for cinnamon sugar

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: Mix the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth.
4. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
5. Roll Dough: Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture.
6. Bake: Place on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are golden.

4. Snowman Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:

• Sugar cookie dough (recipe above)
• Royal icing (store-bought or homemade)
• Mini M&Ms (for buttons)
• Pretzel sticks (for arms)
• Black icing (for eyes and buttons)

Tools & Utensils:

• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (snowman shapes)
• Piping bags for royal icing
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Prepare Dough: Prepare sugar cookie dough as instructed above.
2. Shape Dough: Roll out dough and cut into snowman shapes.
3. Bake: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes.
4. Decorate: Once cooled, decorate with royal icing. Use pretzel sticks for arms, mini M&Ms for buttons, and black icing for eyes and facial details.

5. Reindeer Cookies

Ingredients:

• Gingerbread cookie dough (recipe above)
• Pretzel twists (for antlers)
• Red M&Ms (for noses)
• Candy eyes (optional)

Tools & Utensils:

• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (reindeer shapes)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Prepare Dough: Prepare gingerbread dough as instructed above.
2. Cut and Bake: Roll out dough, cut into reindeer shapes, and bake.
3. Decorate: Once cooled, attach pretzel twists to the top for antlers. Use M&Ms for the nose and candy eyes for the face.

6. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, oil, vanilla, and granulated sugar until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
5. Roll Dough: Roll dough into balls and then into powdered sugar.
6. Bake: Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.

7. Peppermint Mocha Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp instant coffee granules
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies (for garnish)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Cream together butter and sugar. Add the egg, vanilla, and coffee granules, mixing until smooth.
4. Add Dry to Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Form Cookies: Roll dough into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes. Garnish with crushed peppermint candies after baking.

8. Cranberry Orange Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp orange zest
• 1 cup dried cranberries

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Cream together butter and sugar. Add egg and orange zest.
4. Add Dry to Wet: Gradually add dry ingredients. Stir in cranberries.
5. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden.

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9. Almond Joy Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup coconut flakes
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped almonds

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Cream together the butter and brown sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
4. Add Dry to Wet: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir in coconut flakes, chocolate chips, and almonds.
5. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.

10. White Chocolate Raspberry Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips
• 1 cup fresh raspberries (or freeze-dried)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Cream the butter and sugar together. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
4. Add Dry to Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir in white chocolate chips.
5. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, pressing raspberries into each cookie.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes.

11. Thumbprint Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup fruit jam (such as raspberry, strawberry, or apricot)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Teaspoon for making indentations

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until dough forms.
5. Shape Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use your thumb (or the back of a spoon) to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
6. Fill Indentations: Spoon a small amount of jam into each indentation.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden. Let cool before serving.

12. Linzer Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup ground almonds
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup raspberry jam (or your preferred fruit jam)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (round and with a hole in the center for the top)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, ground almonds, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Cream butter and sugar together until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Form dough into a disc and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll Out Dough: Roll dough out on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to cut out circles. For half the cookies, cut out a small hole in the center to create the “top” piece of the cookie.
6. Bake: Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are golden. Cool completely.
7. Assemble: Spread a thin layer of jam on the solid cookie bases and top with the cookies that have the hole cut out. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

13. Coconut Macaroons

Ingredients:

• 3 cups shredded unsweetened coconut
• ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large egg whites
• ¼ tsp salt

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Small spoon or cookie scoop

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare Coconut Mixture: In a bowl, combine shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
3. Whisk Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold Together: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the coconut mixture until fully incorporated.
5. Form Cookies: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to form small mounds of dough and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.

14. Mocha Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp instant coffee granules
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, coffee granules, and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in Chocolate Chips: Stir in the chocolate chips.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown. Let cool before serving.

15. Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for dipping)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (optional)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Mix Dough: Cream together butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and flour, mixing until the dough forms.
3. Roll Out Dough: Roll dough onto a floured surface and cut with cookie cutters if desired. Alternatively, you can form the dough into a log and slice it into rounds.
4. Bake: Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
5. Melt Chocolate: Melt chocolate chips using a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
6. Dip and Cool: Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate, then place them on parchment paper to cool.

16. Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• ½ cup maraschino cherries, chopped

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
5. Stir in Chocolate Chips and Cherries: Stir in mini chocolate chips and chopped cherries.
6. Form Cookies: Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto a baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden.

17. Caramel-Stuffed Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 ¼ cups unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramel candies

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until dough forms.
6. Stuff with Caramel: Take a spoonful of dough and place a caramel bit in the center, then seal the dough around it.
7. Bake: Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

18. Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract, and mix well.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden.

19. Pecan Sandies

Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix.
4. Add Dry Ingredients and Pecans: Gradually add the dry ingredients and fold in chopped pecans.
5. Form Cookies: Roll dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet. Flatten slightly with a fork.
6. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden.

20. Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp red food coloring
• Powdered sugar (for rolling)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Shallow bowl for powdered sugar

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla, and food coloring and mix until well combined.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until dough forms.
5. Roll Dough: Roll dough into balls, then roll in powdered sugar.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden.

21. Gingerbread Cookies

Ingredients:

• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• 2 tbsp ground ginger
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup molasses
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (gingerbread shapes)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Molasses and Egg: Add the molasses and egg to the butter mixture, mixing until smooth. Add the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
6. Roll Out Dough: Roll the dough onto a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut out gingerbread shapes using cookie cutters.
7. Bake: Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden around the edges.
8. Cool and Decorate: Cool completely before decorating with icing if desired.

22. Sugar Cookie Bars

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ tsp almond extract
• 1 ½ cups colorful sprinkles (for decoration)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Extracts: Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and almond extracts.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Press Dough into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Decorate: Sprinkle the top of the dough with colorful sprinkles.
8. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden on top. Let cool before slicing into bars.

23. Snickerdoodle Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for rolling)
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for rolling)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and mix well.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well combined.
5. Form Dough Balls: Roll dough into 1-inch balls.
6. Roll in Cinnamon-Sugar: Mix cinnamon and sugar together in a small bowl. Roll each dough ball in this mixture.
7. Bake: Place cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.

24. Peppermint Bark Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup white chocolate chips

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing well.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
5. Add Peppermint and Chocolate: Stir in crushed peppermint candies and chocolate chips.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden.
8. Drizzle with White Chocolate: Melt white chocolate chips in the microwave and drizzle over the baked cookies for extra flair.

25. Cranberry White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup white chocolate chips

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
5. Stir in Cranberries and White Chocolate: Fold in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden.

26. Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup pretzels, broken into pieces
• ½ cup caramel bits

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Stir in Pretzels and Caramel: Fold in the broken pretzels and caramel bits.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt as soon as the cookies come out of the oven.

27. Chocolate Pudding Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream butter, sugar, and pudding mix together until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
5. Stir in Chocolate Chips: Stir in the chocolate chips.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden.

28. Almond Joy Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup chopped almonds
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, then stir in coconut, almonds, and mini chocolate chips.
5. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden.

29. Almond Butter Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups almond flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup almond butter
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together almond flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together almond butter, honey, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir to combine.
5. Form Cookies: Scoop dough onto the baking sheet and slightly flatten each one.
6. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.

30. Eggnog Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup eggnog
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, eggnog, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
5. Add Pecans: Fold in chopped pecans (optional).
6. Form Cookies: Scoop dough onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden.

31. Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for dipping)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms.
4. Roll Out Dough: Roll the dough out onto a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness.
5. Cut Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden at the edges.
7. Dip in Chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. Dip each cookie halfway into the melted chocolate and place them back on the baking sheet to set.

32. M&M Christmas Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups M&M’s (red and green for the festive look)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Add M&M’s: Stir in the M&M’s until evenly distributed.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden at the edges.

33. Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup raspberry jam (or any jam of your choice)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Small spoon

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Form Dough Balls: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Create Thumbprint: Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indent in the center of each cookie.
7. Add Jam: Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam into the center of each cookie.
8. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are golden.

34. Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Peanut Butter: In another bowl, cream together butter, peanut butter, and sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Stir in Chocolate Chips: Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

35. Mocha Hazelnut Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp instant coffee granules
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped hazelnuts
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, coffee granules, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until smooth.
5. Add Hazelnuts and Chocolate Chips: Stir in chopped hazelnuts and chocolate chips.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

36. Spiced Molasses Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ½ tsp ground allspice
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup molasses
• ¼ cup sugar (for rolling)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and molasses, mixing well.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
5. Roll in Sugar: Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll them in granulated sugar.
6. Bake: Place on the baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes.

37. Coconut Macaroons

Ingredients:

• 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large egg whites
• ¼ tsp salt

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Coconut and Condensed Milk: In a bowl, mix together shredded coconut, condensed milk, and vanilla extract.
3. Whip Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, whip egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold in Egg Whites: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the coconut mixture.
5. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

38. Peppermint Patty Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped peppermint patties

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add dry ingredients and mix.
5. Stir in Peppermint Patties: Fold in chopped peppermint patties.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

39. Pecan Snowball Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, chopped pecans, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Form Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden at the edges. Cool, then roll in powdered sugar.

40. White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup white chocolate chips

Tools & Utensils:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Add Cranberries and White Chocolate: Stir in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden at the edges.

Advanced Tips for Making Your Cookies Stand Out

Baking Christmas cookies is not only about the flavor but also about making them look festive and beautiful. Here are some advanced tips to elevate your cookie-making skills.

Essential Tools for Holiday Baking

To get the most out of your holiday baking, you’ll need the right tools. Here are some essential items that will help you bake like a pro:

• Stand Mixer: A high-quality stand mixer like the KitchenAid Artisan Series Stand Mixer can make mixing doughs and batters effortless.
• Baking Sheets: Invest in Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Baker’s Half Sheet for even heat distribution and easy cookie release.
• Cookie Cutters: Use a variety of cookie cutters like the Wilton Holiday Cookie Cutter Set to create festive shapes like stars, trees, and snowflakes.

Tips for Decorating Christmas Cookies Like a Pro

Decorating cookies is where you can get creative and add your own personal touch. Here are some tips for beautifully decorated cookies:

1. Royal Icing: This hard-drying icing is perfect for intricate designs and borders. Use Wilton Royal Icing Mix for an easy-to-make, smooth consistency.
2. Sprinkles and Edible Glitter: Add sparkle to your cookies with Wilton Sprinkles or AmeriColor Edible Glitter. These can turn a simple cookie into a showstopper.
3. Food Coloring: AmeriColor Gel Food Colors give your icing vibrant hues without thinning it out.

Conclusion

With these 40 easy Christmas cookie recipes, you can bake a festive assortment that’s sure to please friends and family this holiday season. From classic Chocolate Chip Cookies to Peppermint Patty Cookies and Raspberry Jam Thumbprints, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a simple treat or something with a bit of flair, these recipes will help create lasting memories around the Christmas tree. Happy baking!