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Home » Recipe Collections

The 33 Christmas cookies everyone grew up with

Published: Nov 30, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Holiday baking always brings back the charm of the Christmas cookies everyone grew up with, from simple shapes to colorful designs. Making a fresh batch at home feels like stepping right back into those childhood kitchen moments. Whether you're decorating with family or stocking tins for gifting, there's a cookie here that keeps that nostalgic spirit alive.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Snowman-Cookies.jpg

Snowman Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Holiday Butter Cookies

A close-up view of holiday butter cookies on a white plate.
Holiday Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Soft, crumbly butter cookies come together with just six simple ingredients. They bring a homemade touch to any celebration without relying on store-bought versions.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Butter Cookies

Christmas Sugar Cookies

Overhead view of Christmas sugar cookies on a white plate, with cookies on the side as well.
Christmas Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Tender sugar cookies topped with royal icing offer a classic option for decorating or gifting. They’re simple to prepare and add a cheerful homemade feel to the season.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Sugar Cookies

Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close up photo of a stack of pecan chocolate chip cookies.
Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Crisp edges and a soft center make this pecan-studded cookie a standout. It brings a homemade charm that easily joins any holiday cookie tray.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

Side angle view of almond flour peanut butter cookies with one half-bitten cookie.
Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Nutty peanut butter flavor pairs with almond flour for a quick homemade treat. They’re easy to mix and bake when you want something simple for snacking.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

Close-up image of a chocolate chip skillet cookie topped with two scoops of ice cream and sprinkles, with one slice missing.
Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

A warm skillet cookie delivers a gooey center ideal for sharing. Serve it straight from the pan for a comforting homemade dessert.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies

Close up view of lemon curd cookies with a lavender flower in background.
Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Bright lemon curd adds a fresh pop of flavor to these soft, buttery cookies. They’re ready fast and bring a sunny touch to the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Curd Thumbprint Cookies

Linzer Cookies

An overhead image of three Linzer cookies on a plate.
Linzer Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lightly spiced cookies filled with jam create a timeless seasonal treat. Their classic cutout look adds a festive touch without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Linzer Cookies

Snowman Cookies

A close-up image of Snowman Cookies.
Snowman Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

These playful cookies are fun to decorate and even more fun to share. Their festive appearance makes them great for parties or gifting.
Get the Recipe: Snowman Cookies

3D Gingerbread Tree Cookies

Three 3D Gingerbread Tree Cookies.
3D Gingerbread Tree Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Layered gingerbread pieces stack into a charming edible centerpiece. Each tree adds a playful element to your homemade cookie spread.
Get the Recipe: 3D Gingerbread Tree Cookies

3D Stacked Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Two 3D Stacked Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies.
3D Stacked Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Frosted layers build into cute tree shapes for an easy holiday project. They bring a creative homemade touch to cookie gifting.
Get the Recipe: 3D Stacked Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Cranberry White Chip Cookies

Cranberry cookies with a bite taken out of them.
Cranberry White Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

Tart cranberries and sweet white chips create a bright seasonal flavor. They add color and variety to any dessert plate.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry White Chip Cookies

Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies

Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies on a wooden board.
Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Simple decorations turn everyday cookies into reindeer faces in minutes. They make a fun, no-bake activity for kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies

No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

A stack of maple pecan cookies on a white plate.
No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Maple syrup and crunchy pecans come together in this quick cookie. It’s a no-bake option that adds something different to your holiday lineup.
Get the Recipe: No Bake Maple Pecan Cookies

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

A close-up image of Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies.
Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft gingerbread with warm spices captures the essence of the season. They’re great for decorating, sharing, or boxing up as a homemade gift.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Chocolate Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs

An image of Chocolate Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs.
Chocolate Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Rich cocoa flavor transforms classic cutouts into a deeper, chocolatey version. They offer an easy way to switch up your usual cookie routine.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs

Gluten-Free Rosemary Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Gluten-Free Rosemary Lemon Shortbread Cookies with a jar of honey and fresh rosemary.
Gluten-Free Rosemary Lemon Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Bright lemon and fragrant rosemary bring a fresh twist to buttery shortbread. The simple dough makes holiday baking feel relaxed and easy.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Rosemary Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Gluten Free Stained Glass Christmas Cookies

An image of Gluten Free Stained Glass Christmas Cookies.
Gluten Free Stained Glass Christmas Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Melted candies create colorful “windows” that look impressive but require minimal effort. They add a decorative touch to any holiday assortment.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Stained Glass Christmas Cookies

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Overhead image of cranberry chocolate cookies in a plate.
Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cranberries give a sharp contrast to chocolate chips for a seasonal flavor upgrade. Their chewy bite makes them an instant favorite for homemade gifting.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Shortbread Cookies

A white plate with cookies on it.
Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: Trina Krug.

Classic shortbread delivers crisp edges and a buttery finish. Its simplicity gives it a timeless place on any holiday cookie tray.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies

Ginger Crinkle Cookies

A stack of white chocolate dipped ginger cookies on a plate.
Ginger Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

Soft ginger cookies rolled in sugar bake into classic crinkles with warm spice. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Crinkle Cookies

Christmas Reindeer Cookies

Reindeer-themed cookies decorated with icing.
Christmas Reindeer Cookies. Photo credit: Food Plus Words.

Festive decorations turn simple cookies into adorable reindeer. They’re great for group baking sessions and holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Reindeer Cookies

Gluten-Free Double Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies

Gluten-Free Double Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Cocoa and warm spices combine for a deeper take on gingerbread. Their chewy texture makes them a cozy addition to your seasonal baking.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Double Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies

Biscoff Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Biscoff Reindeer Linzer Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Biscoff or caramel spread gives these Linzers a sweet, playful twist. Their reindeer design adds a fun nod to holiday traditions.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Reindeer Linzer Cookies

White Chocolate Raspberry Cookies

White Chocolate Raspberry Cookies. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Creamy white chocolate pairs with tart raspberries for a balanced cookie. They offer a bakery-style feel without extra steps.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Raspberry Cookies

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men Cookies

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men Cookies. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Easy-to-roll dough makes these gingerbread men great for cutting and decorating. Their bold spices bring classic holiday flavor in a gluten-free version.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men Cookies

Chocolate Dipped Peppermint Meringue Kiss Christmas Cookies

Chocolate Dipped Peppermint Meringue Kiss Christmas Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Light peppermint meringues dipped in chocolate create an elegant seasonal treat. Their crisp texture makes them a refreshing addition to your cookie spread.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Dipped Peppermint Meringue Kiss Christmas Cookies

Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Peppermint Kiss Cookies. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Chocolate shortbread topped with candy cane–striped kisses brings a cheerful look. They’re an easy choice for family baking nights.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Raspberry Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Raspberry Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Buttery cookie dough holds a sweet raspberry center for a satisfying bite. They pair well with warm drinks and feel right at home on a holiday tray.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies

Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Soft cookies with pockets of melted marshmallow make a cozy dessert. They’re simple to prepare and add something comforting to your baking rotation.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies

Easy Gluten-Free Linzer Cookies

Easy Gluten-Free Linzer Cookies. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Tender cookies with a sweet jam filling offer a gluten-free take on a classic. They’re great for sharing and add variety to your holiday selection.
Get the Recipe: Easy Gluten-Free Linzer Cookies

Crinkle Grinch Cookies

Crinkle Grinch Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Green crinkles with a bright red heart bring a whimsical twist to holiday baking. They’re fun, simple, and full of playful charm.
Get the Recipe: Crinkle Grinch Cookies

Sugar-Free Nutella Cookies

Sugar-Free Nutella Cookies on a black cooking rack.
Sugar-Free Nutella Cookies. Photo credit: Low Carb - No Carb.

Four ingredients come together quickly for a chocolate-forward cookie. They’re ideal for last-minute guests or simple snacking.
Get the Recipe: Sugar-Free Nutella Cookies

White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies

White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Spiced ginger cookies dipped in white chocolate create a balanced flavor. They’re easy to customize with different chocolate varieties for a personal touch.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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