41 Christmas Cookie Ideas That Put the “Merry” in Merry Christmas

If there’s one part of the holiday season that always sparks a little joy, it’s the cookie plate, and any of these 41 Christmas cookies offer plenty of ways to create that feeling. Some ideas feel familiar, while others bring a small surprise that still fits the season. I’ve noticed that cookies often become the most talked-about part of a celebration.

Candy Cane Cookies

Kids and adults flock to this Candy Cane Cookies plate as soon as the sweet peppermint aroma fills the air. The playful twist shapes add a splash of old-school fun to your spread. I always notice people admire the colors before taking a bite. Christmas gatherings instantly feel brighter with these whimsical treats on the table.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Cookies

Adorable Snowman Cookies

Few things bring bigger smiles than these Adorable Snowman Cookies at a holiday exchange. Their cute faces melt even the grumpiest Grinch heart as soon as you walk in. I find that children and grown-ups both reach for these first. A tray of snowmen never fails to create playful conversation and festive memories.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Snowman Cookies

Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

A chilly December afternoon calls for these Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies straight out of the oven. The blend of pumpkin comfort and rich chocolate is pure winter magic in every bite. People always grab seconds before they’ve finished the first one. Holiday dessert trays look even cozier when these are included.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Holiday countdowns feel special with these Swirled Marshmallow Cookies by your side. Swirls of creamy sweetness grab everyone’s attention as plates circle the room. The first bite always inspires happy surprises as the marshmallow melts on your tongue. Cookies like these help turn any party into a warm celebration.
Get the Recipe: Swirled Marshmallow Cookies

Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Chilly evenings get an upgrade with these Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies at dessert time. Guests light up at the first whiff of minty chocolate fudge, letting nostalgia take over. There’s something playful yet irresistible about the cooling taste. Mint chocolate fans secretly hope to take a few home for later.
Get the Recipe: Soft Thin Mint Chocolate Cookies

Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Bringing these Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes to a gathering guarantees instant cheer. Antlers and red noses spark laughter while everyone tries to choose their favorite one. I like to watch the cupcake tray dwindle as folks trade and compare designs. Playful details turn regular cupcakes into holiday highlights with these cuties.
Get the Recipe: Adorable Rudolph Cupcakes

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Mugs of cocoa match perfectly with these Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies during Christmas movie marathons. The sweet aroma fills the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen for another treat. I’ve found that one cookie is never enough when these are around. Gingerbread spices make the whole evening feel merry and bright.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Gathering friends gets a little brighter with these Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies lined up on a tray. The simple act of decorating them becomes a holiday tradition all on its own. People of all ages love adding their creative flair with colorful sprinkles. Edible evergreens make any cookie swap unforgettable and fun.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Anyone who adores bold flavors will be drawn to these Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies stacked together. Sweet, juicy bits and intense chocolate turn a humble cookie into a true treat. Friends usually comment on their bakery-style texture and glossy shine. Chocolate and cherries steal the spotlight at any Christmas celebration.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cherry Cookies

Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Cookie decorating parties come alive thanks to this Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies set. Shaped bells, stars, and trees bring out everyone’s artistic side and make great conversation starters. People pick out the most eye-catching shapes with a sense of delight. Cookies never disappoint at holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Decorated Christmas Sugar Cookies

Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Right as you think you’ve seen every cute cookie, this Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies pops up. Oreo cookies in colorful “ornament” form always get a round of applause from holiday guests. The sparkle makes dessert tables look even more inviting. Anyone who tries one has to snap a quick photo before digging in.
Get the Recipe: Festive Oreo Christmas Ornament Cookies

Easy Whoopie Pie

With this Easy Whoopie Pie, classic holiday memories get a modern twist. Soft cookies sandwich a creamy center that feels just right after dinner by the fireplace. Party guests chat and reach for seconds as the tray makes its rounds. Pies have a way of bringing everyone together for a sweet moment.
Get the Recipe: Easy Whoopie Pie

Ginger Bread House

Building this Ginger Bread House is half the fun during Christmas week. Friends gather around to assemble walls and rooftops, sneaking tastes of extra decorations as they go. Displaying a finished house fills every evening with seasonal cheer. Memories last long after the candy pieces have disappeared.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Bread House

Soft Lemon Cookies

Bright citrus breaks through winter chill with this Soft Lemon Cookies. Each bite surprises guests looking for something lighter and refreshing among richer treats. I like to pair these alongside tea or cocoa for contrast. Lemon cookies offer a fresh spin on Christmas classics without losing that cozy spirit.
Get the Recipe: Soft Lemon Cookies

Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

If you want dessert without the fuss, this Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars has your back. Slices pull apart easily for sharing while rich chocolate flavor keeps everyone happy. Neighbors stop by for just one more square before heading on their way. Cookie bars keep your holiday spread simple, warm, and inviting.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cake Mix Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Guests gather around the dessert table hoping to grab one of this Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops first. Playful faces with chocolate antlers make each cookie pop irresistible to kids and adults. Chocolate-coated pops are perfect for parties and taste as fun as they look. Expect lots of smiles with these in your holiday line-up.
Get the Recipe: Festive Reindeer Cookie Pops

Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Late night gift wrapping pairs perfectly with this Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies. Sweet berries and fresh lemon brighten up the winter season and make each cookie feel like a mini treat. Friends are often delighted by the burst of fruit flavor. Muffin cookies keep the tradition fun and a little unexpected.
Get the Recipe: Tangy Lemon and Blueberry Muffin Cookies

Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Lactose free doesn’t have to mean boring with this Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter. These cookies keep a chewy texture and sweet, light taste that works for everyone at the table. I’ve watched them become a favorite among kids searching for something gentle on the stomach. Allergy-friendly treats let every guest participate fully.
Get the Recipe: Soft Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Melt-in-your-mouth magic is possible with this Buttery Shortbread Cookies. Flaky texture and rich flavor bring a touch of old-fashioned comfort to any celebration. Friends appreciate having a simple, timeless cookie on their plates. Shortbread never goes out of style and always brings crowd-pleasing comfort to festivities.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Shortbread Cookies

Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate lovers’ hearts beat a little faster for these Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies. Thick cookies with gooey chips dot the table, proving popular at every gathering. I often hear “wow” after just one bite because these go all-in on the chocolate. More is truly more when Christmas calls for something extra special.
Get the Recipe: Rich Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Seasonal cravings find the perfect answer in this Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies recipe. Caramelized edges meet soft pumpkin inside, making for a cozy, crowd-pleasing cookie. People whisper about grabbing extras for the road as the dessert table gets crowded. Bringing bakery flair to a homemade cookie never felt this easy.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Getting through your to-do list is easier thanks to this No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies. No oven needed, just quick mixing and a bit of patience while they set. Sweet maple and crunchy pecans combine for a cookie that everyone remembers. These treats deliver big holiday flavor without keeping you stuck in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Colorful desserts don’t get brighter than this Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies with their cheerful green hue. The crinkles on top add playful character, attracting kids and adults alike to the platter. Neighbors always ask about the recipe when these make an appearance. Crinkle cookies turn any winter day into a mini celebration.
Get the Recipe: Festive Grinch Crinkle Cookies

Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies

Slices of this Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies promise comfort and warmth at first glance. A gentle swirl inside catches every guest’s eye as they pick up a piece. Pumpkin spice invites a taste of fall even in the heart of winter. Cookie platters feel more inviting with these pretty rolls on display.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Pumpkin Roll Cookies

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Some traditions never fade, like this Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie that anchors any festive cookie plate. Toasty oats and sweet chocolate are a pairing everyone counts on for familiarity. I’ve seen these disappear before other fancier treats get noticed. Holiday stories are better with a chewy oatmeal cookie in hand.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie

Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

As soon as dessert gets playful, people gravitate to this Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies creation. Frosted faces and fluffy centers bring Santa’s spirit to life right on your table. Laughter breaks out as folks try to pick their favorite Santa. No one forgets the year you served these colorful treats at your party.
Get the Recipe: Jolly Santa Whoopie Pies

Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Inviting comfort comes naturally with this Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans ready for snacking. Nutty crunch inside the pillowy, spiced dough adds a twist everyone loves. I like to make these for holiday game nights and casual get-togethers. Cozy pumpkin cookies always mean the holidays are in full swing.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Cinnamon rolls get a new lease on life as this Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies. Sticky sweet icing and buttery layers make it the centerpiece of many dessert spreads. Guests pause to admire the swirls before taking a generous bite. Swirl cookies bridge the gap between tradition and bakery-level fun.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Cinnamon Swirl Cookies

Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Children can’t stop giggling when this Fun Cookie Monster Cookies comes to your holiday party. Blue faces, edible eyes, and bright features spark smiles before anyone even tastes them. Serving these always makes your dessert table the most memorable. Whimsical cookies keep Christmas feeling magical for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Fun Cookie Monster Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Red velvet delivers festive flair thanks to this Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies. Every bite offers a chewy texture and creamy chunks that wow at first taste. I’ve seen plates empty sooner than expected when these show up. Red velvet cookies add a classic, elegant touch to your celebration lineup.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Red Velvet White Chip Cookies

Soft Strawberry Cookies

Dipping into something fruity adds variety to your holiday set with this Soft Strawberry Cookies snack. A gentle pink hue and a hint of berry flavor make these a popular pick among all the chocolate and spice. Many guests reach for these when they want something lighter. Cookies let you switch things up with festive flair.
Get the Recipe: Soft Strawberry Cookies

Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Those PB&J lunch memories come to life again with this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie. Each cookie feels playful yet familiar, blending childhood and holiday traditions in one chewy bite. People remark on the fun surprise waiting inside. Peanut butter and jam find a new home on the Christmas cookie tray.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie

Soft Marry Me Cookies

For moments that need a touch of romance, bake these Soft Marry Me Cookies. The soft texture and warm spices deliver comfort even as the winter wind blows outside. I’ve offered these for holiday movie nights and seen people absolutely smitten. Sometimes a cookie’s name says it all: these beg to be loved and shared.
Get the Recipe: Soft Marry Me Cookies

Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Add a dose of love to your holiday lineup with this Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies. Each cookie fits perfectly in small hands and brings cheer to any crowd. Decorating sessions turn into holiday highlights as sprinkles and icing cover every surface. These cookies tell your guests they’re special from the very first bite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Heart Shaped Cookies

Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you crave classic cake flavors, try this Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting. Sweet carrot and tangy frosting come together for a dessert that’s part cake, part cookie. I love whipping up a batch for afternoon open houses or gift boxes. Carrot cake cookies add color and warmth to any Christmas celebration.
Get the Recipe: Soft Carrot Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Thumb Print Cookie

Childhood favorites always make a comeback with this Thumb Print Cookie. Jewels of jam in the center glisten under twinkly Christmas lights while the buttery cookie stays soft underneath. Guests always recognize these and swap stories as they eat. Thumbprints are timeless for good reason and always spark warm holiday feelings.
Get the Recipe: Thumb Print Cookie

Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Eating plant-based doesn’t mean missing out, especially with this Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies on your platter. These little clouds of almond flavor blend traditions old and new for a unique treat. Friends appreciate the chewy texture and delicate finish. Vegan cookies invite everyone to enjoy the merry celebration.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Vegan Amaretti Cookies

Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Some flavors stay classic, like this Soft Peanut Butter Cookies that rounds out a Christmas display. The peanutty aroma fills the kitchen, luring people in for taste tests and repeat visits. I always find these disappear faster than I expect. Peanut butter and holiday cheer go hand in hand for comfort and nostalgia.
Get the Recipe: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Retro treats like this Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies bring a certain charm to any dessert tray. Crisped edges and a soft chocolate center keep people stretching for one more bite. I often see powdered sugar dusted on faces after a cookie swap. Crinkles are a festive touch everyone loves during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Crackled Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Spreading cheer is easy with this Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies stacked for sharing. Spiced filling and crisp cookies make these a new favorite on classic platters. Friends find themselves joking about “just one more” before the cookie box finally empties. Sandwich cookies guarantee fun and flavor at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Biscoff Sandwich Cookies

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

No Christmas cookie plate would feel complete without this Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies. Every bite oozes home-baked charm and chocolatey goodness, so people can’t resist sneaking a couple extra for later. I usually have requests for the recipe before guests leave. These cookies are the gift that keeps on giving.
Get the Recipe: Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies