Try something new: 19 non-traditional cookies to make this year

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Ready to add a twist to your holiday baking this year? Let’s step outside the classic cookie box and explore some exciting new recipes. Imagine biting into a chocolate-dipped almond cashew butter cookie or savoring the unique blend of a carrot cake cookie. This list of 19 cookies is all about bringing fresh flavors and fun ideas to your kitchen. Whether you’re a baking pro or just trying your hand at something new, these recipes are straightforward and sure to impress your friends and family. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s start baking some memorable cookies that might just become new holiday favorites!

Chocolate dipped cashew almond butter cookies on parchment lined baking sheet garnished with candied sage leaf.
Chocolate Dipped Almond Cashew Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pignoli Cookies

Pignoli Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pignoli cookies are a classic Italian treat, featuring a chewy, almond-flavored base topped with crunchy toasted pine nuts. They’re a sophisticated and different choice for cookie enthusiasts looking to try something beyond the usual.
Get the Recipe: Pignoli Cookies

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cranberry chocolate chip cookies on a plate.
Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cranberry chocolate chip cookies offer a wonderful mix of tart cranberries with sweet chocolate chips, creating a delightful contrast in flavors. They are a refreshing change from the usual chocolate chip cookie.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Peanut Butter Cookies

Gluten free peanut butter cookie leaning against a stack of cookies in the background.
Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These peanut butter cookies are made in the classic criss-cross style, offering a rich flavor and a soft, chewy texture. They provide a delightful alternative to the usual holiday cookie spread.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cookies

Cranberry Orange Biscotti

Cranberry biscotti on a plate with orange slices.
Cranberry Orange Biscotti. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Cranberry orange biscotti provide a delightful crunch with crisp edges and a buttery texture. The addition of fresh cranberries and orange flavor makes them a festive and unique choice for holiday baking.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Biscotti

Cranberry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cranberry almond chocolate chip cookies on a white plate.
Cranberry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These cookies are infused with orange zest and feature a mix of cranberries and almonds, dipped in chocolate and sprinkled with sea salt. They’re a gourmet twist on the traditional holiday cookie, combining fruity and nutty flavors.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate Cashew Cookies

Chocolate Cashew Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Chocolate cashew cookies combine the textures of a chewy brownie and sugar cookie, rolled in chopped nuts. They’re a chocolaty, nutty treat, offering a different flavor profile from traditional holiday cookies.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Cashew Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal raisin cookies on a plate with pink kitchen towel.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Oatmeal raisin cookies are a twist on a classic, filled with rolled oats and plump raisins. The addition of optional coconut flakes adds an extra layer of flavor, making them a moreish treat different from traditional holiday cookies.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Amaretto Fudge Cookies

Amaretto Fudge Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These dark chocolate amaretto fudge cookies are decadent with a hint of amaretto, perfect for those who enjoy a boozy twist in their holiday treats.
Get the Recipe: Amaretto Fudge Cookies

Carrot Cake Cookies

Healthy carrot cake cookies lined up in wooden box with parchment paper.
Carrot Cake Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Carrot cake cookies merge the flavors of a classic carrot cake into a convenient cookie form. Including ingredients like raisins, walnuts, and spices, they offer a unique taste and texture that’s different from typical holiday cookies.
Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Cookies

Cranberry Orange Thumbprint Cookies

Cranberry orange thumbprint cookies on a white plate.
Cranberry Orange Thumbprint Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Thumbprint cookies with cranberry and orange flavors offer a fresh take on the classic recipe. The combination of tart cranberry and zesty orange makes these cookies a standout addition to any holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Thumbprint Cookies

Chocolate Dipped Almond Cashew Butter Cookies

Chocolate dipped cashew almond butter cookies on parchment lined baking sheet garnished with candied sage leaf.
Chocolate Dipped Almond Cashew Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These almond cashew butter cookies are flourless and dipped in dark chocolate, garnished with candied sage. They offer a unique flavor and texture, making them a fun treat during the winter season.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Dipped Almond Cashew Butter Cookies

Sweet Potato Cookies

Sweet potato cookies stacked on top of each other on a wire rack.
Sweet Potato Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sweet potato cookies are made with mashed sweet potato, oats, and almond flour. They’re a unique addition to any holiday cookie platter, offering a subtly sweet flavor and a soft, chewy texture.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cookies

Easy Thumbprint Cookies

Jam filled thumbprint cookies on a plate.
Easy Thumbprint Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Thumbprint cookies are simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients. They stand out with their unique thumbprint design filled with jams or chocolate, offering a twist to the regular holiday cookie.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thumbprint Cookies

Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Gingerbread cookies, high in protein, offer a healthier and cozy winter treat. They’re a fun way to enjoy the classic holiday spice mix in a more nutritious form.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Cookies

Orange Pomegranate Chocolate Chip Cookies

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

These cookies combine the flavors of pomegranate, orange zest, and chocolate chips to create a unique winter-themed treat. They’re a great addition to holiday baking, offering a burst of fresh and fruity flavors.
Get the Recipe: Orange Pomegranate Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate Dipped Orange Macaroons

Chocolate Dipped Orange Macaroons. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Chocolate dipped orange macaroons are a delightful small treat, easy to make, and perfect for the holidays. The combination of orange and chocolate gives them a unique flavor, distinguishing them from other holiday cookies.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Dipped Orange Macaroons

Gingerbread Molasses Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Three gingerbread molasses chocolate chunk cookies stacked on a white plate coated in sugar.
Gingerbread Molasses Chocolate Chunk Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These cookies blend the rich flavors of molasses and gingerbread with chocolate chunks. They’re a delicious twist on the traditional gingerbread cookie, perfect for those who love a combination of spicy and sweet.
Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Molasses Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Chocolate Matcha Shortbread Cookies

Chocolate Matcha Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Matcha shortbread cookies drizzled in chocolate offer a unique flavor combination. They’re a crispy and buttery option for those who enjoy matcha’s distinct taste, paired with the richness of chocolate.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Matcha Shortbread Cookies

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies on a wire rack.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies capture the essence of fall with their pumpkin spice flavor and chocolate chips. They’re a perfect seasonal treat, different from the usual holiday cookie lineup.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

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