12 of The Best Christmas Cookies

Today, I’m excited to share 12 of the Best Christmas Cookies from my archives, all compiled into one convenient list! Over the years, I’ve shared many delicious cookie recipes, but I carefully sifted through them to handpick the ones that truly shine during the holiday season.

These recipes are festive, flavorful, and perfect for Christmas celebrations, whether you’re baking for a party, gifting to friends and neighbors, or leaving out treats for Santa. From classic favorites to unique creations, this collection has something for everyone! I have also included tips for gifting cookies.

12 of the Best Christmas Cookies

1. Ginger Snaps—Ginger is a standard Christmas flavor. I have had this recipe for over twenty years. They are the perfect combination of soft and chewy.
2. Melt-in-Your-Mouth Pumpkin Cookies—These tender caky cookies are topped with buttery maple frosting. They really do melt in your mouth.
3. Monster Cookies—I have enjoyed these cookies since I was a girl. The peanut butter oatmeal base surrounds M&M’s, butterscotch chips, and chocolate chips.
4. Eggnog Sugar Cookies—These sweet sugar cookies are moist and tender, with eggnog in the batter and a creamy frosting made with eggnog. They are full of eggnog flavor.
5. Candy Cane Sugar Cookie Bars—This bar version of a sugar cookie does not require cookie cutters. It also has the additional seasonal flavor of peppermint candy canes.
6. Vanishing Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies — This classic cookie is definitely worthy of making a Christmas list.  With how fast this will disappear, they are deserving of the word vanishing to be in their name!
7. Snowball Sugar Cookies — This is another version of a sugar cookie. This tender little frosted gems will melt in your mouth just like snow and look like little round balls of snow.
8. Maple Glazed Pumpkin Cookies — These little pumpkin morsels get a drizzle with a sweet maple glaze!
9. Easy Sugar Cookies — This is one of my go-to recipes for sugar cookies. There is no need for rolling or frosting.
10. Ranger Cookies—These were one of my favorite cookies growing up. If you have never had a Ranger cookie before, you must try them. The batter includes oats, coconut, and rice krispies.
11. Pretzel—topped chocolate Chip Cookies—This simple cookie recipe uses store-bought cookie dough and chocolate-covered pretzels. If you prefer, you could also use your own favorite homemade chocolate chip cookie recipe instead of the store-bought dough.
12. Chocolate Cookies with Peppermint Frosting— I absolutely love peppermint when it’s paired with chocolate, and that’s precisely what you get with this cookie.

Tips for Gifting Cookies

Gifting cookies is a thoughtful and delicious way to spread holiday cheer. Here are some tips to make your cookie gifts extra special:

Choose the Right Cookies

• Sturdy Cookies: Select cookies that travel well, like shortbread or chocolate chip cookies. Avoid overly delicate or frosted cookies that might smudge or crumble.
• Variety: Include a mix of flavors, textures, and shapes to make the gift feel more festive.

Bake Fresh

• Plan your baking so the cookies are as fresh as possible when you gift them. If you need to prep ahead, many cookie doughs can be made and frozen until baking day. You can also freeze them after they cook and cool to use in the furture.

Package Thoughtfully

• Containers: To keep cookies fresh and intact, use tins, glass jars, or festive boxes. Line them with parchment or tissue paper for added protection and a decorative touch.
• Separate Layers: Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Individual Wrapping: For frosted or delicate cookies, wrap each one in wax paper or small cellophane bags.

Add a Personal Touch

• Labels: Include a handwritten label or tag with the type of cookie and any allergen information (nuts, gluten, etc.).
• Recipe Cards: Attach the recipe so the recipient can recreate the cookies themselves.
• Decorations: Add ribbons, bows, or festive stickers for an extra special presentation.

Consider the Timing and Delivery

• Delivery Window: Ensure the cookies are delivered promptly to keep them fresh.
• Shipping: If mailing cookies, pack them tightly with bubble wrap or padding to prevent shifting during transit. Use airtight containers for maximum freshness.

Customize for the Recipient

• Think about their preferences. Do they love chocolate, classic sugar cookies, or spiced treats? Tailor the selection to their tastes.

Pair with Extras

• To make the gift feel complete, include a little something extra, like hot cocoa mix or a small festive ornament.

Store Properly Before Gifting

• Keep cookies in airtight containers until you’re ready to package them. If gifting a mix of cookies, store frosted ones separately to prevent smudging.

Gifting cookies is as much about the love and care you put into it as the cookies themselves. With these tips, your cookie gifts will look beautiful, taste amazing, and be loved by everyone who receives them!