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Home » Recipe Articles

The best cookies to bring to a holiday cookie swap

Published: Dec 12, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Holiday cookie swaps are one of the best ways to share festive cheer, discover new favorites, and surprise your friends with irresistible homemade treats. Whether you’re aiming for classic crowd-pleasers or unique twists that stand out on the cookie table, this collection of cookie recipes for the cookie swap has something for every baker — from chewy chocolate crowns and jam-filled thumbprints to buttery shortbreads and festive spiced bites.

Linzer Cookies

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

These buttery Linzer cookies, filled with jam and lightly spiced, are simple to prepare but look like a bakery specialty. They make an attractive and thoughtful choice for holiday gift-giving.
Get the Recipe: Linzer Cookies

Lemon Shortbread Cookies

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

Lemon shortbread cookies, with a buttery texture and bright citrus flavor, are quick to prepare in less than 30 minutes. They make a refreshing addition to holiday treat collections and are a great gift option.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Snickerdoodles

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

Soft, chewy snickerdoodles coated in cinnamon-sugar are easy to bake and always turn out just right. Their comforting flavor makes them perfect for sharing and a great addition to any holiday gift.
Get the Recipe: Snickerdoodles

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 with butter and seasonal spices, come together quickly in under 45 minutes. Their cozy flavors make them a great choice for holiday gift platters, offering a taste of fall even in winter.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Cookies

Gingerbread Cookies

A line of gingerbread man cookies on a wooden plate.
Gingerbread Cookies. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

These gingerbread cookies, with their warm spices and molasses, have a soft, chewy texture that makes them a great holiday treat for gifting. You can easily shape them into gingerbread men or simple rounds, ensuring they are a hit at any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Cookies

Easy Christmas Sugar Cookies

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

Christmas sugar cookies, known for their buttery sweetness and endless decorating possibilities, are easy to make. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings or gifting to friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Easy Christmas Sugar Cookies

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men Cookies

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

Gluten-free gingerbread men cookies are spiced perfectly and roll out beautifully, making them easy to shape and decorate. They are a great addition to holiday gift-giving and sharing with others.
Get the Recipe: Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men Cookies

Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies

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

Holiday reindeer cookies, made from Nutter Butters, are quick to assemble with minimal ingredients. These charming treats are perfect for Christmas parties and make a thoughtful gift for friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Nutter Butter Reindeer Cookies

Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

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

Gingerbread cookies combine soft textures with warm flavors of molasses and spice. Whether decorating them with loved ones or gifting them, they bring festive cheer to any holiday occasion.
Get the Recipe: Soft Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Ginger Crinkle Cookies

An image of Ginger Crinkle Cookies.
Ginger Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Erren's Kitchen.

These ginger crinkle cookies combine a chewy texture with bold gingerbread flavor. Their comforting taste makes them a great choice to add to your holiday dessert table and complement any celebration.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Crinkle Cookies

Gingerbread Linzer Cookies

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

Gingerbread sandwich cookies, filled with creamy ganache, mix warm spices with a festive touch. These homemade treats are perfect for gifting or sharing at Christmas gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Linzer Cookies

Get the Full List of Cookies for a Cookie Swap

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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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