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Nothing says Christmas like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or just getting started, this ultimate guide to Christmas cookies has something for everyone.

From easy recipes to show-stopping decorated designs, these ideas are perfect for gifting, sharing, or indulging. Let’s dive in!

Classic Cookies Everyone Loves

1. Classic Sugar Cookies

No Christmas cookie list is complete without sugar cookies. These buttery treats are easy to make, fun to decorate, and a hit with everyone. Use festive cutters and decorate with royal icing and candy to create snowflakes, stockings, and trees.

Pro Tip: Add almond or lemon extract for a unique flavor twist.

2. Gingerbread Men

Chewy, spiced, and oh-so-cute, gingerbread men are a holiday staple. Personalize them with decorated icing designs—think scarves, buttons, and funny faces.

Christmas Cookies Packaging Idea: Arrange your gingerbread in Christmas-themed boxes lined with parchment paper for a charming gift.

3. Thumbprint Cookies with Jam

Simple yet elegant, these cookies feature a buttery base with a dollop of fruit jam in the center. Choose festive red jams like raspberry and cranberry for a holiday touch.

4. Peppermint Bark Cookies

Combine two-holiday favorites—cookies and peppermint bark! Layer in white chocolate and crushed candy canes in a sugar cookie base for a minty, sweet treat.

Packaging Tip: Stack them in clear cellophane bags tied with a candy cane-striped ribbon.

5. Snowball Cookies

Also known as Mexican wedding cookies, these bite-sized delights are buttery, nutty, and coated in powdered sugar. Their snowy appearance makes them perfect for the holidays.

6. Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

These fudgy cookies with their crackled powdered sugar coating are as festive as they are delicious. They’re quick to whip up and perfect for your Christmas cookie tray.

Unique and Show-Stopping Cookies

7. Stained Glass Cookies

For a unique take on holiday cookies, try stained glass cookies. Use hard candies like Jolly Ranchers to fill cutout centers, creating a “stained glass” effect.

Decorating Idea: Hang them as edible ornaments on your Christmas tree!

8. Eggnog Snickerdoodles

These soft cookies combine the flavors of eggnog and cinnamon sugar for a holiday-inspired twist on the classic snickerdoodle. Add a pinch of nutmeg to enhance the eggnog vibe.

9. Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti

Biscotti isn’t just for coffee lovers; dip these crunchy cookies in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermint for a holiday makeover.

Gift-Worthy Packaging: Wrap biscotti in Christmas cookies boxes ideas like decorative tins or kraft paper sleeves tied with twine.

10. Red Velvet Cookies

Soft, chewy, and vibrantly red, these cookies are as festive as they come. Add cream cheese frosting or white chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

11. Peanut Butter Blossoms

This classic cookie combines a soft peanut butter base with a chocolate Hershey’s Kiss on top. It’s nostalgic, festive, and always a hit at holiday gatherings.

Gifting Tip: Arrange them in reusable tins with a Christmas motif for a thoughtful present.

12. Linzer Cookies

These elegant sandwich cookies, made with almond flour and filled with fruit preserves, are perfect for impressing guests. Use a snowflake or star-shaped cutter for extra holiday flair.

Presentation Idea: Layer them neatly in Christmas cookie boxes with a clear window for a professional look.

13. Molasses Cookies

Rich with molasses and warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, these soft cookies taste like Christmas in every bite. Pair them with a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate comfort snack.

14. Candy Cane Cookies

Shaped like classic candy canes, these cookies are made by twisting red and white dough together. Add a hint of peppermint extract for an extra festive flavor.

15. Italian Ricotta Cookies

These soft, pillowy cookies are subtly sweet and flavored with lemon or almond. Top them with a simple glaze and colorful holiday sprinkles for a festive touch.

16. Chocolate Espresso Cookies

Rich and decadent, these cookies are infused with espresso powder for a sophisticated flavor. They’re perfect for coffee lovers and add an elegant touch to your holiday spread.

17. Red and Green Christmas Cookies

Spritz cookies are small, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Add red or green food coloring to the dough, and use a cookie press to create festive shapes like wreaths or stars.

18. Fruitcake Cookies

Packed with dried fruit, nuts, and a touch of rum or brandy, these cookies capture the essence of traditional fruitcake in a compact, chewy treat.

Best Christmas Cookies for Mailing

19. Shortbread Cookies

Dense and crumbly, shortbread cookies are perfect for shipping and stay fresh for days.

20. Butter Pecan Cookies

Rich and nutty, these cookies are made with toasted pecans and buttery dough that stays deliciously fresh for days. Their sturdy texture makes them perfect for mailing.

Shipping Tip: Wrap individual cookies in wax paper to keep them from sticking together during transit.

21. Almond Crescent Cookies

These crescent-shaped cookies are both festive and durable, making them ideal for shipping.

22. Mint Chocolate Cookies

The combination of mint and chocolate makes these cookies irresistible. They travel well when packed properly.

23. Toffee Cookies

These rich, buttery bars stay intact during shipping and make for a delightful holiday treat.

24. Coconut Macaroons

Their chewy texture and compact shape make them perfect for mailing.

25. Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprints

Chocolate-based thumbprints filled with peppermint ganache and topped with crushed candy canes are as festive as they are delicious.

Tips for Shipping Cookies:

Use airtight tins or sturdy containers to keep cookies fresh.
Add parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Use bubble wrap or crumpled paper to cushion your cookies.

Creative Packaging and Free Gift Labels

Giving cookies as gifts? Make them extra special with these packaging ideas:

Decorative Boxes: Use holiday-themed boxes with clear windows.
Mason Jars: Add ribbon and a label for a rustic charm.
Cellophane Bags: Tie with twine and a festive tag.

Download Your Free Printable Gift Labels
Make your cookie gifts stand out with our free printable labels! They’re designed to fit cookie tins, bags, and jars. Perfect for adding a personalized, festive touch to your holiday treats.

Printable Christmas gift tags with festive designs like candy canes, a gingerbread man, and holiday messages in minimalist line art.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD!

Christmas cookies bring so much joy to the holiday season, whether you’re baking for family, friends, or gifting to loved ones far away. With these 25 irresistible Christmas cookie recipes, you’re sure to find the perfect cookie for any occasion.

Get your apron on, preheat the oven, and let the holiday magic begin! Hugs!