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Home » Desserts

41 Fun, Festive Cookies to Bake with Family and Friends

Published: Dec 4, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Festive cookies are the heart of holiday baking, bringing sweetness and joy to any gathering. Whether you’re spending time with loved ones or just looking for something fun to make, these recipes are great for adding a little extra cheer to the season. From easy-to-make classics to creative showstoppers, each one is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Baking together is more than just making treats—it’s about creating memories and spreading happiness, one cookie at a time.

Top view of Gingerbread Linzer Cookies on a circular wooden board.
Gingerbread Linzer Cookies. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies

A plate of pumpkin cookies with white chocolate chips is displayed on a table.
Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pumpkin white chocolate chip cookies bring a chewy texture and seasonal charm to holiday baking. Ready in just 20 minutes, they add a cheerful touch to any gift basket or dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Cookies

Lemon Shortbread Cookies

An image of lemon shortbread cookies in a serving plate.
Lemon Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon shortbread cookies combine a buttery texture with bright citrus flavors that feel refreshing and festive. With a quick 30-minute preparation, they’re a great choice for holiday tins and gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Linzer Cookies

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

Buttery Linzer cookies, filled with jam and lightly spiced, are simple to prepare yet look bakery-perfect. Their festive presentation and blend of flavors make them a thoughtful option for holiday gift-giving and a treat that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Linzer Cookies

Danish Butter Cookies

Four swirled butter cookies, each nestled in a white paper liner, arranged on a wooden tray.
Danish Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Delicate Danish butter cookies, made with just six ingredients, melt in your mouth with every bite. Their simplicity and timeless flavor make them a must-have for holiday cookie assortments that never fail to impress.
Get the Recipe: Danish Butter Cookies

Snickerdoodles

An overhead image of snickerdoodles on a plate.
Snickerdoodles. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Soft and chewy snickerdoodles, coated in a cinnamon-sugar crust, are a breeze to bake. Their subtle tang and familiar flavors make them a perfect holiday gift for loved ones of all ages.
Get the Recipe: Snickerdoodles

Gingerbread Linzer Cookies

Gingerbread Linzer Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Gingerbread sandwich cookies, filled with rich ganache, blend warm spices with festive flair. These elegant homemade treats are perfect for gifting or sharing during Christmas celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Linzer Cookies

No Spread Sugar Cookies

No Spread Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

No-spread sugar cookies are a reliable recipe for creating beautifully shaped and decorated holiday designs. With their buttery vanilla base, they’re perfect for Christmas baking and thoughtful gifting.
Get the Recipe: No Spread Sugar Cookies

Festive Chocolate Covered Oreo Christmas Cookies

Festive Chocolate Covered Oreo Christmas Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Chocolate-covered Oreo Christmas cookies are a no-bake treat decorated with festive designs and colors. They’re a fun and simple way to spread holiday joy, especially for Oreo lovers.
Get the Recipe: Festive Chocolate Covered Oreo Christmas Cookies

Peanut Butter Stuffed Black Bean Cookies

Peanut Butter Stuffed Black Bean Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Black bean cookies, with a creamy peanut butter filling, have a rich, gooey texture that’s both indulgent and nutrient-packed. These creative treats make a thoughtful and unexpected holiday gift option.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Stuffed Black Bean Cookies

Chocolate Dipped Peppermint Meringue Kiss Christmas Cookies

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

Chocolate-dipped peppermint meringue kiss cookies pair the light, airy texture of meringue with rich chocolate and candy cane accents. These elegant, simple-to-make treats are an impressive choice for holiday gift boxes.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Dipped Peppermint Meringue Kiss Christmas Cookies

3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies

Side angle view of piped Nutella cookies on a wooden board lined with parchment paper.
3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Nutella cookies, made with just three ingredients in 25 minutes, are a quick and easy holiday treat. Their rich chocolate flavor makes them a thoughtful and sweet addition to any festive occasion.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Nutella Cookies

Gluten Free Stained Glass Christmas Cookies

Gluten Free Stained Glass Christmas Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Stained glass Christmas cookies feature colorful, vibrant centers that make them as decorative as they are delicious. Despite their intricate appearance, they’re surprisingly simple to make and perfect for gifting.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Stained Glass Christmas 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.

Almond flour peanut butter cookies pack a rich peanut butter flavor while being quick to prepare. Their wholesome simplicity makes them a heartfelt addition to Christmas gifting traditions.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

Snowman Cookies

Snowman Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Snowman cookies are a charming and simple treat, perfect for sharing during the holiday season. Fun to bake and decorate with family, they also double as delightful homemade gifts or party treats.
Get the Recipe: Snowman Cookies

Crinkle Grinch Cookies

Crinkle Grinch Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Crinkle Grinch cookies, with their vibrant red and green hues, add a playful touch to holiday baking. These colorful treats are great for gifting, festive tables, or enjoying during a Christmas movie night.
Get the Recipe: Crinkle Grinch Cookies

Chocolate Dipped Cashew Almond Butter Cookies with Candied Sage

Chocolate Dipped Cashew Almond Butter Cookies with Candied Sage. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Flourless cashew almond butter cookies, dipped in dark chocolate and finished with candied sage, combine chewy textures with distinctive flavors. They’re a standout addition to holiday cookie platters that feel truly special.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Dipped Cashew Almond Butter Cookies with Candied Sage

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Gingerbread cookies, combining soft textures with molasses and a rich spice profile, are a staple of holiday baking. Perfect for decorating or sharing, they bring festive cheer to any gathering or gift.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies

White Chocolate Dipped Ginger Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

White chocolate-dipped ginger cookies combine the deep flavors of molasses and ginger with the sweetness of white chocolate. These cookies are an excellent choice for cookie exchanges or as part of a thoughtful Christmas gift.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Dipped Ginger 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.

Christmas sugar cookies, decorated with royal icing, are tender and buttery with endless creative possibilities. These personalized treats are a festive way to show thoughtfulness and share holiday cheer.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Sugar Cookies

Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies

Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Holiday reindeer cookies, made from Nutter Butters and minimal ingredients, are fun and easy to assemble. These cute treats are perfect for Christmas parties and make a thoughtful gift for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies

Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Peppermint Kiss Cookies. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Peppermint Kiss cookies feature chocolate shortbread with a candy cane Kiss center for a seasonal touch. These flavorful treats are perfect for holiday gift boxes and spreading seasonal cheer.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Kiss Cookies

Easy Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Easy Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Christmas tree sugar cookies are not only festive but also simple to prepare, making them a hit at holiday gatherings. Their beautiful designs and ease of baking make them a fun way to impress loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Easy Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Gluten Free Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Gluten Free Christmas Pinwheel Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Gluten-free pinwheel cookies, with their festive red and green spirals, are a cheerful addition to any holiday spread. These colorful treats are simple to make and add joy to gift trays.
Get the Recipe: Gluten Free Christmas Pinwheel Cookies

Holiday Butter Cookies

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

Holiday butter cookies are soft, crumbly, and filled with rich buttery flavors that people love. With just six ingredients and an easy recipe, they’re perfect for spreading joy during the festive season.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Butter Cookies

Christmas Reindeer Cookies

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

Christmas reindeer cookies, featuring fun and festive designs, are as enjoyable to decorate as they are to eat. They’re a wonderful holiday activity with kids and a cheerful addition to any gathering or gift platter.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Reindeer Cookies

Pumpkin Pie Cookies

An overhead image of pumpkin pie cookies with whipped cream on top cooled on a wire rack.
Pumpkin Pie Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Soft pumpkin pie cookies, rich in butter and seasonal spices, are quick to make and full of comforting holiday flavors. They come together in under 45 minutes, making them a convenient addition to festive gift platters.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Easy Gingerbread Cookies

Easy Gingerbread Cookies. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Easy gingerbread cookies are crisp on the outside with a soft, spiced center, embodying the flavors of the season. Whether for platters, dessert tables, or gifts, they’re a timeless holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Gingerbread Cookies

Easy Santa Whoopie Pies

Easy Santa Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Santa Whoopie Pies feature soft cookies paired with creamy fillings, adding a playful charm to holiday baking. These whimsical treats are sure to bring joy to Christmas gatherings and be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Easy Santa Whoopie Pies

Festive Gingerbread Pizzelle

Festive Gingerbread Pizzelle. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Gingerbread pizzelle cookies are crisp and infused with spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, creating a memorable holiday treat. Their bold molasses sweetness makes them a meaningful addition to any Christmas gift box.
Get the Recipe: Festive Gingerbread Pizzelle

Gingerbread Collagen Cookies

Gingerbread Collagen Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Gingerbread collagen cookies bring a festive touch with their soft texture and cozy spices. Packed with protein, they’re a thoughtful snack that fits beautifully into holiday gift baskets.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Collagen Cookies

3D Stacked Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

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

Stacked Christmas tree sugar cookies are crafted from colorful dough and assembled into impressive 3D tree shapes. They’re straightforward to make yet visually striking, making them a festive and creative holiday gift.
Get the Recipe: 3D Stacked Christmas Tree 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.

Pecan chocolate chip cookies offer a soft, gooey center paired with a golden, crisp exterior. Their chocolatey richness makes them a favorite holiday gift, especially for cookie lovers.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs

Chocolate Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Chocolate sugar cookie cut-outs combine the richness of chocolate with the buttery texture of sugar cookies. Their festive shapes make them a nostalgic and heartfelt gift for the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs

Easy Christmas Sugar Cookies

Easy Christmas Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Christmas sugar cookies are a holiday classic, combining buttery sweetness with endless decorating possibilities. Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings, they’re a go-to treat for sharing or gifting.
Get the Recipe: Easy Christmas Sugar Cookies

Sparkling Frosted Cranberry Cookies

Sparkling Frosted Cranberry Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Christmas cranberry cookies pair sugared cranberries with a smooth buttercream topping, creating a festive and eye-catching treat. These cookies are a vibrant addition to holiday cookie trays and gift assortments.
Get the Recipe: Sparkling Frosted Cranberry Cookies

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men Cookies

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

Gluten-free gingerbread men cookies are filled with bold spices and roll out easily for decorating. Their flavorful spices and ease of preparation make them a great option for sharing and gifting.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men Cookies

Italian Chocolate Chestnut Tortelli Cookies

Italian Chocolate Chestnut Tortelli Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Italian chocolate chestnut tortelli cookies are filled with a decadent mix of chestnuts, dark chocolate, and a hint of rum. These traditional treats bring a touch of authenticity to cookie exchanges and are memorable gifts.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chocolate Chestnut Tortelli Cookies

Orange Pomegranate Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Orange Pomegranate Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pomegranate oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, accented with orange zest, offer a winter-inspired flavor in every bite. They’re an excellent choice for festive gatherings or as part of holiday baking traditions.
Get the Recipe: Orange Pomegranate Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

3D Gingerbread Tree Cookies

3D Gingerbread Tree Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

3D gingerbread tree cookies combine soft centers with crisp edges to create a treat that’s as fun to display as it is to eat. These creative cookies double as edible centerpieces, making them a charming holiday gift.
Get the Recipe: 3D Gingerbread Tree Cookies

Easy Gluten-Free Linzer Cookies

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

Gluten-free Linzer cookies, inspired by an Austrian classic, are a lovely addition to holiday spreads. Easy to adapt for dietary preferences, they’re a thoughtful and inclusive choice for Christmas trays.
Get the Recipe: Easy Gluten-Free Linzer Cookies

Biscoff Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Biscoff Reindeer Linzer Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Biscoff reindeer Linzer cookies bring a playful spin to a classic recipe with caramel or Biscoff filling. Complete with pretzel antlers and cute reindeer faces, they’re a charming gift that stands out.
Get the Recipe: Biscoff Reindeer Linzer 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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