17 holiday cookies that make every bite feel like Christmas

Photo of author

| Published:

Who needs mistletoe when cookies can deliver the warm, festive hug you didn’t know you needed? Packed with flavors that practically sing of holiday cheer, these cookies could melt the heart of even the grinchiest of guests. They provide a much-needed pause from the chaos of wrapping paper and shopping lists, focusing your energy where it truly belongs—on enjoying every last crumb.

Low angle shot of a single gingersnap cookie broken in half.
Ginger Snaps. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

German Chocolate Macarons

German chocolate macarons with chocolate ganache drizzle.
German Chocolate Macarons. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

These are the kind of cookies that make holiday gatherings extra special with their mix of chewy texture and rich, indulgent flavor. The contrast of light and decadent elements makes German Chocolate Macarons a favorite for those who love a festive treat. They have a way of standing out on cookie trays. With each bite, they feel like a little piece of Christmas cheer wrapped in a dessert.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Macarons

Kolacky

Several poppy seed filled kolacky on a white plate with red and gold ribbons in the background.
Kolacky. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Every holiday spread deserves a touch of tradition, and Kolacky deliver just that with their unique texture and festive charm. They’re the kind of cookies that feel like a hug from a loved one, offering a moment of comfort amid the holiday hustle. Their classic appeal brings out nostalgia, reminding everyone of cherished family recipes. These are the cookies people will sneak off the tray and hope no one notices.
Get the Recipe: Kolacky

Chocolate Rugelach

Low angle shot of rugelach cookies filled with chocolate and pecans.
Chocolate Rugelach. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Few cookies feel as festive and elegant as Chocolate Rugelach, with their flaky layers and irresistible filling stealing the show. These treats balance rich flavors with a sophisticated texture that adds a touch of class to any dessert table. They manage to look fancy while being approachable, making them a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings. Once you try them, they’ll become a staple for every celebration.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Rugelach

Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Stack of peanut butter cookies on a wooden board with a small bowl of peanut butter and a striped napkin.
Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Modern holiday baking gets a fun update with Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies, a twist on a familiar favorite that feels both fresh and comforting. These cookies are soft, flavorful, and ready in a snap, which is a lifesaver during busy festive weeks. They’re proof that easy and delicious can go hand in hand, making them a great choice for holiday gatherings or quiet nights in. You might find yourself making them long after the decorations come down.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Honey Cookies With Orange And Cinnamon

Low-angled shot of a honey cookie broken in half with stacks of honey cookies and a glass of milk in the background.
Honey Cookies With Orange And Cinnamon. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Holiday baking wouldn’t be complete without something warm and inviting like Honey Cookies With Orange And Cinnamon on the table. Their flavor combination feels like a cozy evening by the fire. These cookies bring a sense of tradition with a modern twist, making them a perfect addition to any holiday spread. Pair them with a warm drink, and they might just become your new seasonal favorite.
Get the Recipe: Honey Cookies With Orange And Cinnamon

Lemon Coconut Macaroons

Low angle shot of lemon coconut macaroons on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.
Lemon Coconut Macaroons. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Bright, refreshing, and surprisingly festive, Lemon Coconut Macaroons are a cookie that breaks away from the usual holiday lineup. Their light texture and bold flavor make them stand out. They’re one of those cookies that disappear quickly at gatherings, leaving everyone wondering where they went. With their balance of playful and memorable, they’re bound to bring a little extra cheer to your holidays.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Coconut Macaroons

Black Sesame Cookies

Black sesame cookies on a baking sheet with a spoonful of black sesame seeds.
Black Sesame Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If your holiday cookie tray could use a creative spark, Black Sesame Cookies are the perfect choice to add something unexpected. Their nutty flavor profile and unique look make them a standout among the more traditional options. These cookies are ideal for guests who love trying something a little different. They’re proof that stepping outside the box can make your holiday baking even more exciting.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Cookies

Salted Toffee Cookie Bars

Stack of 3 toffee cookies.
Salted Toffee Cookie Bars. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Sweet and salty come together beautifully in Salted Toffee Cookie Bars, a treat that feels both indulgent and comforting. These bars are a versatile option, equally perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself during those quiet holiday moments. Their rich, layered flavors make them a standout, even on a tray full of holiday classics. Once you’ve had one, it’s almost impossible not to reach for another.
Get the Recipe: Salted Toffee Cookie Bars

Caramel Whoopie Pies

A plate of caramel sandwich cookies on a white plate.
Caramel Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Soft, creamy, and playful, Caramel Whoopie Pies are a holiday treat that feels like a little party in every bite. Their fun sandwich-style design makes them a favorite for both kids and adults, adding a touch of whimsy to dessert spreads. They’re rich enough to feel special but light enough to keep everyone coming back for seconds. These pies are sure to be the highlight of your holiday baking.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Whoopie Pies

Flourless Chocolate Cookies

Overhead shot of cookies on a white cloth with a glass of milk.
Flourless Chocolate Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Decadence takes center stage with Flourless Chocolate Cookies, delivering a chocolate fix that doesn’t hold back. These cookies offer a soft, rich center and a perfectly crisp edge that create a rewarding texture in every bite. They’re a thoughtful option for guests who need to avoid certain ingredients, but they’re so good no one will even notice. If you’re looking for a treat that feels both indulgent and inclusive, these are a perfect choice.
Get the Recipe: Flourless Chocolate Cookies

Quaker Oatmeal Cookies

Low angle shot of oatmeal cookies on a white plate.
Quaker Oatmeal Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

No holiday dessert table feels complete without Quaker Oatmeal Cookies, a timeless favorite that brings a sense of nostalgia. Their hearty texture and familiar flavor make them a comforting choice that everyone appreciates. These cookies have a way of feeling both special and simple, making them a staple for gatherings big or small. When all else fails, these cookies prove that the classics never go out of style.
Get the Recipe: Quaker Oatmeal Cookies

Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies

Stack of hot cocoa cookies on a plate.
Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Warm, gooey, and full of holiday cheer, Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies capture the essence of the season in every bite. They’re the kind of cookies that bring people together, whether for a quiet night by the fire or a bustling holiday party. Using an air fryer makes them quick and mess-free, which is a holiday miracle in itself. With their cozy flavors and easy preparation, these cookies are destined to become a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Hot Cocoa Cookies

Dulce De Leche Cookies

Overhead shot of dulce de leche cookies.
Dulce De Leche Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

The holidays are the perfect excuse to indulge, and Dulce De Leche Cookies deliver all the richness you could hope for. Their creamy filling and soft texture make them a luxurious addition to any dessert spread. These cookies look just as good as they taste, adding an elegant touch to your holiday table. Don’t be surprised if they disappear faster than you expected.
Get the Recipe: Dulce De Leche Cookies

Rhubarb Cookies

Stacked rhubarb cookies with slices of rhubarb.
Rhubarb Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Tart, sweet, and totally unexpected, Rhubarb Cookies bring a fresh twist to holiday baking that’s hard to resist. They’re a welcome break from traditional flavors, offering something that feels both familiar and new. These cookies are perfect for the adventurous eater, the one who’s always looking for something different. Add them to your holiday lineup, and they’ll be the cookies everyone talks about.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb Cookies

Hamentashen

Hamentashen cookies piled on a white plate with more cookies on a rack in the background. There is jar of jam with a spoon in it in the background too.
Hamentashen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Fun, festive, and filled with flavor, Hamentashen are a delicious addition to any holiday celebration. Their unique shape and playful filling options make them stand out in the best way possible. These cookies are a nod to tradition with a touch of whimsy, sparking both joy and conversation at the dessert table. You’ll love the way they add personality and charm to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Hamentashen

Ginger Snaps

Low angle shot of a single gingersnap cookie broken in half.
Ginger Snaps. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Few cookies capture the spirit of the season like Ginger Snaps, with their bold flavors and rewarding crunch. They’re a classic for a reason, pairing perfectly with hot drinks or just a quiet moment by the fire. These cookies bring a sense of nostalgia while still feeling fresh and exciting every time you bite into one. Keep a batch on hand, and your holidays will feel a little warmer and cozier.
Get the Recipe: Ginger Snaps

Meringue

Meringue on crumpled parchment paper bag on a wooden table.
Meringue. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Light, airy, and full of charm, Meringue cookies are a lovely way to add elegance to your holiday baking. They’re crisp yet melt in your mouth, making them a treat that feels almost magical. These cookies are perfect for balancing out heavier desserts, offering a light and sweet option that everyone enjoys. With their delicate texture and beautiful look, they’ll quickly become a holiday tradition.
Get the Recipe: Meringue

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.