29 Christmas cookies that bring back the sparkle December always promises

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The stretch of December always feels a little brighter when you have 29 Christmas cookies you can turn to for different moments. Some work when you want something simple for gifting, others feel right when there’s a little extra holiday energy in the house. It’s a mix that brings out the fun parts of the season without asking for a full day in the kitchen. This lineup keeps things easy while still bringing that familiar spark.

Red velvet Christmas truffles sprinkled with sugar.
Red Velvet Christmas Truffles. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Butter Pecan Cookies

A hand holds a bitten Butter Pecan Cookie topped with a pecan and chopped nuts, with a blurred background.
Butter Pecan Cookies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

There’s something downright comforting about the subtle sweetness and buttery goodness of these Butter Pecan Cookies. They’re packed with crunchy pecans that add a warm, nutty flair perfect for cozying up next to the tree. Whenever these show up, they disappear quickly, with or without milk. Whether you’re hosting, gifting, or just indulging while the snow falls outside, these cookies always fit right into the holiday spirit.
Get the Recipe: Butter Pecan Cookies

Peppermint Crunch Oreos

A white plate of Peppermint Crunch Oreos topped with crushed peppermint pieces sits on a white surface.
Peppermint Crunch Oreos. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

If you’re chasing big holiday vibes, these Peppermint Crunch Oreos bring freshness and sweet chocolate together for an unbeatable combination. The peppermint adds just the right pop of cool winter flavor, while the chocolate makes sure every bite still feels indulgent and festive. These cookies look stunning on a platter and tend to be the first ones people reach for at cookie swaps or parties.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Crunch Oreos

Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies

Gingerbread cookies with candy canes on a table.
Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Classic gingerbread gets an upgrade in this Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies, where warm spices and rich chocolate collide in the best possible way. These cookies are fun to decorate if you’re in the mood, but even on their own, they make an impression. They’re the kind of treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent, whether you’re baking for a holiday party or simply curling up at home with a cup of tea.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Gingerbread Men Cookies

New Year’s Eve Cookies

A group of cookies decorated with icing and different shapes of candy sprinkles.
New Year’s Eve Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These New Year’s Eve Cookies have just the right amount of sparkle for the big countdown. They capture the energy of the moment: trendy, glam, and totally extra, while still feeling perfect for sharing. Whether you’re adding them to the dessert spread at a party or saving them for a midnight snack, these cookies bring a fun, celebratory feel to the end of the year.
Get the Recipe: New Year’s Eve Cookies

Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies

A white plate with seven Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies on a marble surface, surrounded by a cup of coffee, a spoon, a bowl of nut butter, oats, and a striped cloth.
Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

When time’s running short in the whirlwind of December, these Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies come to the rescue. They skip the oven entirely but still deliver all the rich, creamy peanut butter deliciousness you crave during the holidays. Perfect for cookie swaps or as a last-minute addition to your dessert table, these are one of those recipes that just work when life gets hectic, and you can bet everyone will ask for more.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies

Double Chocolate Brookies

A plate of chocolate cookies with walnuts and chocolate pieces on the side.
Double Chocolate Brookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

When you can’t decide between brownies or cookies, these Double Chocolate Brookies make it so you don’t have to. They’re packed with the gooey richness of brownies combined with that classic cookie crunch, creating an over-the-top chocolate experience. These cookies feel indulgent in every bite and always attract attention at dessert tables.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Brookies

Hot Cocoa Cookies

A close-up of a cocoa chip cookie with white and dark chocolate chunks resting on a black cooling rack.
Hot Cocoa Cookies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

These Hot Cocoa Cookies are the dessert equivalent of a warm hug on chilly December nights. They capture all the cozy, chocolatey vibes of your favorite cup of cocoa, complete with marshmallows if you’re feeling extra festive. Perfect for munching while rewatching Christmas movies or as a sweet little pick-me-up after playing outside in the snow, these cookies deliver holiday comfort like no other.
Get the Recipe: Hot Cocoa Cookies

Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

Peanut butter cookies with a face made of pretzels and dried cranberries to look like a reindeer.
Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Of all the holiday treats, these Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies stand out for their playful charm. These cookies bring a cheerful lightheartedness to any dessert table, with cute designs that are almost too irresistible to eat; but trust me, you’ll devour them anyway. They’re as fun to look at as they are tasty, making them a hit whether you’re setting them out for a kids’ party or sneaking a few while wrapping gifts late at night.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

Bourbon Balls with White Chocolate

Bourbon balls with white chocolate and powdered sugar
Bourbon Balls with White Chocolate. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a more sophisticated twist on holiday cookies, these Bourbon Balls with White Chocolate strike the perfect balance between indulgence and elegance. The smooth bourbon pairs beautifully with the creamy white chocolate, making these bite-sized treats feel like a special occasion in every bite. They set just the right tone for festive indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Bourbon Balls with White Chocolate

Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Six Cookie Butter Cake Balls on a slate tray.
Cookie Butter Cake Balls. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Bite-sized perfection is what these Cookie Butter Cake Balls are all about. They bring the buttery, spiced sweetness of cookie butter into a soft, indulgent treat that’s ideal for holiday dessert spreads. These are both fun and elegant, making them a perfect choice whether you’re planning a big party or just looking for something cheerful to snack on while putting finishing touches on your decorations.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Butter Cake Balls

Eggnog Sugar Cookies

Eggnog sugar cookies on a plate with santa claus figurines.
Eggnog Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If eggnog is one of your favorite holiday traditions, these Eggnog Sugar Cookies are the perfect way to turn that seasonal flavor into dessert. They bring the warm, spiced notes of eggnog into a soft, sweet cookie that practically melts in your mouth. Add a spiced glaze on top, and they’re ready to stand out on any cookie platter. These cookies feel celebratory, comforting, and exactly what December was made for.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Sugar Cookies

White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

A jar of White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies next to lavender flowers.
White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies look like snowy little bites of perfection, making them ideal for holiday celebrations. Sweet and soft, they’re easy to whip up and always make an impression on the dessert table. These cookies are simple enough for casual get-togethers but still pretty enough for gifting. No fuss, just festive deliciousness that fits right into the most wonderful time of the year.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Three brown butter snickerdoodle cookies arranged on a white surface, sprinkled with sea salt flakes, with a white cloth and purple flowers on the side.
Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet caramel meets nutty brown butter in these Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles, making them a must-have for anyone who loves rich, complex flavors. That extra sprinkle of salt turns these cookies from simple to spectacular, ensuring they’ll grab attention at any holiday gathering. They’re perfect for gifting, sharing, or keeping for yourself to enjoy with a steaming cup of coffee while snow falls outside.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Brown Butter Snickerdoodles

Chocolate Overload Cookies

Chocolate overload cookies on a white plate.
Chocolate Overload Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

If you live for chocolate, these Chocolate Overload Cookies deliver on every level. They’re packed with layer after layer of cocoa-rich goodness, making them impossible to resist. These cookies are big, bold, and indulgent; basically everything a holiday dessert should be. Set them out at a party, and they’ll be gone before you know it!
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Overload Cookies

Peanut Butter & Jelly Thumbprint Cookies

A close-up of peanut butter thumbprint cookies filled with red jelly.
Peanut Butter & Jelly Thumbprint Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Sweet, playful, and a little nostalgic, these Peanut Butter & Jelly Thumbprint Cookies are the kind of treat that gets people talking. The creamy peanut butter base paired with a jam-filled center feels just familiar enough to be comforting while still standing out in a lineup of holiday sweets. Perfect for cookie platters, gifting, or saving for yourself; you’ll love the childhood memories these bring back.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter & Jelly Thumbprint Cookies

Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

A slice of chocolate chip skillet cookie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream sits on a white plate with a spoon.
Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

There’s something extra cozy about a dessert everyone can grab a fork for, and this Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie doesn’t disappoint. Warm, gooey, and generously packed with chocolate chips, it’s the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights. Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself, this cookie is best served fresh from the skillet; maybe with a scoop (or three) of ice cream on top.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie

Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies

A plate with several Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie cookies topped with a layer of peanut butter and a swirl of chocolate frosting.
Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

You don’t have to go all the way to the bakery when these Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies bring that famous combo of chocolate and peanut butter right to your holiday treat lineup. Rich and fudgy, these cookies are a borderline obsession for anyone who loves decadent desserts. They’re festive without being complicated, and perfect for sharing or not.
Get the Recipe: Crumbl Copycat Buckeye Brownie Cookies

Peanut Butter and Date Chocolate Bark

A stack of Peanut Butter and Date Chocolate Bark pieces sits on a wooden board.
Peanut Butter and Date Chocolate Bark. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Sweet and chewy with just enough crunch, these Peanut Butter and Date Chocolate Bark blends nostalgic flavors with a creative twist. The dates bring a soft texture against peanut butter and chocolate, creating a treat that feels totally fresh yet familiar. These are perfect for gifting or as a quick snack during busy December outings.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter and Date Chocolate Bark

Church Window Cookies

A hand holding a piece of Church Window Cookies, with more pieces blurred in the background.
Church Window Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Bright, colorful, and fun, these Church Window Cookies are the holiday treat that kids and adults alike can’t help but smile at. Packed with marshmallows and vibrant hues, they bring plenty of personality to your dessert table without being overly complex to make. These cookies capture the playful spirit of the season, whether you’re hosting or snacking at home.
Get the Recipe: Church Window Cookies

Avalanche Crunch Cookies

A baking tray lined with parchment paper holds twelve Avalanche Crunch Cookies.
Avalanche Crunch Cookies. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

These Avalanche Crunch Cookies are festive chaos in all the right ways. Their mix of sweet and crunchy textures makes every bite something uniquely fun and satisfying. Perfect for when you want treats that are a little outside the box, these cookies fit right into lazy afternoons spent at home with family or as a quick indulgence during December outings.
Get the Recipe: Avalanche Crunch Cookies

Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Chocolate Caramel Cookies with frosting, caramel drizzle, and chopped nuts on a white marble surface.
Chocolate Caramel Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Soft, chewy caramel paired with smooth chocolate creates the perfect holiday combination in these Chocolate Caramel Cookies. These cookies bring all the comfort and richness you want from cold-weather treats, making them great for gifting or sharing during cozy December nights. You’ll love how familiar yet transformed these feel in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Pecan Butter Balls

Top-down shot of seven pecan butter balls on a black plate.
Pecan Butter Balls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cozy, buttery, and packed with warm pecan flavor, these Pecan Butter Balls feel timeless every time they’re on the dessert table. They’re the kind of melt-in-your-mouth cookies that pair perfectly with a mug of hot cocoa or coffee while the snow falls outside. Whether you’re serving them at a party or keeping them close for late-night snacks, these cookies bring a little nostalgia and a lot of joy to the season.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Butter Balls

Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies

Frosted chocolate chip cookie cookies on a wooden cutting board.
Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chocolate chips are already a classic, but these Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies kick things up a notch with their fun frosted topping. Sweet, simple, and approachable, these cookies look festive enough for holiday parties but keep all the cozy familiarity you’d expect from a chocolate chip cookie. They’re like a new twist on a favorite, and trust me, they’ll be gone faster than you think.
Get the Recipe: Cookie Frosted Chocolate Chip Cookies

Eggnog Cookies with Spiced Rum Glaze

A plate of eggnog cookies with with spiced rum glaze on top.
Eggnog Cookies with Spiced Rum Glaze. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Festive and rich, these Eggnog Cookies with Spiced Rum Glaze bring those warm holiday flavors front and center. The glaze gives them just the right grown-up kick, but the cookies themselves are as comforting as it gets. If you’re a fan of eggnog or just love soft, warm spiced desserts; these feel like a perfect pairing to curl up with while twinkling lights glow around you.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog Cookies with Spiced Rum Glaze

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

A plate of chocolate cookies topped with white icing and green sprinkles. A red and white striped cloth is in the background.
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

The cool freshness of peppermint paired with the bold richness of dark chocolate makes these Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies stand out in any holiday spread. They’re festive without feeling too sweet, creating a balance that’s perfect for late-night snacking by the fire or wrapping up as gifts for chocolate lovers. Add these to your lineup, and you can bet they’ll become a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies on a slate.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Some classics don’t need much reinventing, and these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are proof of that. Packed with soft oats and chewy raisins, these cookies are both comforting and satisfying without feeling overly complicated. They’re a great choice whether you’re looking for something simple to bake or a cozy addition to your holiday dessert lineup. No frills, just classic deliciousness that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Ginger Spice Cookies

A plate of Spiced Ginger Cookies and a cup of tea.
Ginger Spice Cookies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bold and warm with just the right hint of sweet, these Ginger Spice Cookies are everything you’d expect from a classic holiday treat. With their subtle crunch and deep spiced flavor, they feel festive but approachable. Perfect for holiday gifting or sharing at parties, these cookies somehow capture the essence of December in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Spice Cookies

Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

A hand holding a partially eaten Cranberry chocolate chip cookie in focus, with a blurred background.
Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bright, tart cranberries meet sweet chocolate chips in these Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies, creating a flavor combo that feels made for December. The pop of red from the cranberries adds a fun, festive touch, while the chocolate keeps holiday fans coming back for more. They’re delicious, colorful, and just the right balance of sweet and tangy for a cookie platter.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Chocolate Chip Cookies

Red Velvet Christmas Truffles

Red velvet Christmas truffles sprinkled with sugar.
Red Velvet Christmas Truffles. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Decadent, rich, and beautifully festive, these Red Velvet Christmas Truffles are perfect when you want a pop of color in your dessert spread. Their bold flavors and smooth textures make each bite feel indulgent and elegant, without being hard to make. Whether you’re hosting or simply treating yourself, these truffles make a statement and taste every bit as good as they look.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Christmas Truffles

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