When Christmas lights are glowing, and the house starts to smell like butter and sugar, cookies take over the season. These 19 easy Christmas cookies are the kind that grab attention before Santa ever shows up. They’re simple to make, fun to share, and perfect for filling plates, tins, and cookie trays. From classic favorites to festive twists, this list is all about baking treats that disappear fast and make Christmas feel extra sweet.
Cherry Surprise Cookies. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.
Toasted S’mores Cookies
Soft cookie dough filled with chocolate and toasted marshmallows brings instant fun to any plate of Christmas cookies. The gooey centers and chewy texture make them stand out once they’re set out for sharing. These Christmas cookies are easy to make and always disappear quickly at parties and swaps.
Get the Recipe: Toasted S’mores Cookies
Nutella No-Bake Cookies
Rich Nutella mixed with simple pantry staples creates Christmas cookies that come together without turning on the oven. The chewy texture and deep chocolate flavor make them feel special even though the steps stay simple. These cookies are perfect for filling a tray fast when time is short, and guests are coming.
Get the Recipe: Nutella No-Bake Cookies
Chewy S’mores Cookies
Chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers come together in soft cookies that feel playful and familiar on a Christmas cookie tray. Every bite delivers a mix of chewy and sweet that keeps people reaching back for another. These Christmas cookies are easy to bake and great for sharing with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Chewy S’mores Cookies
Classic Thumbprint Cookies
Soft cookies with bright jam centers always look right at home among classic Christmas cookies. The tender dough holds the filling neatly so each bite stays balanced and sweet. This easy Christmas cookie feels traditional and dependable for sharing with family and friends.
Get the Recipe: Classic Thumbprint Cookies
Cherry Pie Cookies
Swirls of soft dough and cherry filling give these Christmas cookies the feel of a small dessert in every slice. The fruity center adds sweetness while the cookie stays tender and easy to enjoy. These cookies are simple to bake and bring something a little different to the holiday tray.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Pie Cookies
Cherry Surprise Cookies
A hidden cherry center turns these into Christmas cookies that feel fun and unexpected. The buttery outside pairs well with the sweet fruit filling for a flavor people remember. These cookies are easy to make and always get smiles when broken open.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Surprise Cookies
Peppermint Shortbread Cookies
Crisp shortbread paired with chocolate and peppermint adds a cool crunch to the Christmas cookie lineup. The buttery base stays tender while the peppermint brings a clean, sweet bite. These Christmas cookies are simple to prepare and feel classic without feeling plain.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Shortbread Cookies
Easy Sugar Cherry Cookies
Soft sugar cookies filled with cherry pieces add color and sweetness to any spread of Christmas cookies. The dough stays tender while the fruit keeps each bite lively and enjoyable. These cookies are easy to make and great for filling plates and tins.
Get the Recipe: Easy Sugar Cherry Cookies
Chewy Lemon Cookies
Bright lemon flavor brings a fresh balance to richer Christmas cookies on the tray. The soft and chewy texture keeps them easy to enjoy from start to finish. These cookies are simple to bake and offer something lighter without feeling out of place.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Lemon Cookies
Classic Holly Wreath Cookies
Shaped like wreaths, these Christmas cookies bring instant cheer to dessert tables and cookie swaps. The mix of crunchy cereal and marshmallow creates a sweet texture that many people recognize. These cookies come together quickly and always stand out for their look and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Classic Holly Wreath Cookies
Chewy Molasses Cookies
Deep molasses flavor and soft centers make these Christmas cookies feel familiar and comforting on any holiday cookie tray. The gentle spice keeps the flavor bold but easy to enjoy, which makes them a favorite for sharing with family and friends. These cookies are simple to bake, perfect for gifting or cookie swaps, and rarely last long once they are served.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Molasses Cookies
Peppermint Chocolate Cookies
Rich chocolate dough mixed with crushed peppermint creates Christmas cookies that look festive and taste balanced. The mint adds crunch while the cookie stays soft and sweet. These cookies are easy to make and feel right at home on holiday trays.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Chocolate Cookies
Hot Chocolate Cookies
Soft chocolate cookies with marshmallow centers add a cozy feel to any group of Christmas cookies. The tender dough and gooey middle work together for a satisfying bite. These cookies bake easily and often become the first ones gone.
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Cookies
Mint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Crinkled tops and soft centers give these Christmas cookies a classic look that always stands out on the holiday dessert table. The mix of chocolate and mint keeps the flavor rich without feeling heavy, making them easy to enjoy alongside other favorites. These cookies are simple to bake, hold their shape well, and are easy to share at Christmas parties, swaps, and family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Candy Cane Brookies
Fudgy brownie layers and soft cookie dough combine to create a Christmas cookie with plenty of texture. Crushed candy canes add crunch and a pop of flavor in every bite. This treat is easy to bake and always grabs attention on the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Candy Cane Brookies
Palmier Cookies
Light, flaky layers with caramelized sugar make these cookies a standout on any Christmas tray. The crisp, buttery texture feels special alongside softer treats, giving the plate more variety and charm. These cookies are simple to make, bring a sweet, elegant touch to holiday gatherings, and are sure to catch everyone’s eye.
Get the Recipe: Palmier Cookies
Chocolatey Raisin Cookies
Soft oats, chocolate, and raisins create Christmas cookies that feel familiar and satisfying. The balance of sweetness keeps them enjoyable without being too rich. These cookies are easy to bake and fit right in with classic holiday favorites.
Get the Recipe: Chocolatey Raisin Cookies
Apricot Crescent Cookies
Delicate crescent shapes filled with sweet apricot add a cheerful touch to any plate of Christmas cookies. The buttery dough wraps the fruit perfectly, keeping every bite soft and flavorful while adding a festive look. These cookies are easy to make, share beautifully, and bring a warm, thoughtful addition to holiday gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Apricot Crescent Cookies
Chewy Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies
Soft chocolate cookies with gooey marshmallow centers make a Christmas cookie that feels rich and indulgent. The chewy dough and melty middle create a satisfying contrast in every bite. These cookies are easy to bake, hold their shape well, and always stand out on a holiday cookie tray.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies