Are you searching for delicious Christmas cookie recipes to brighten your holiday season? Look no further! Whether you’re planning a fun baking session with the kids, need a simple yet impressive dessert for a festive party, or want to fill homemade gift hampers with sweet treats (one of my favorite December traditions!), this guide has you covered. Here, you’ll find 18 of the best Christmas cookie recipes—from rich and fudgy chocolate brownie cookies to classic sugar cookies perfect for decorating, and even vibrant, playful Christmas kitchen sink cookies. Let’s dive in and start baking!

1. White Chocolate Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies

White Chocolate Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies

Yields: 24 cookies Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 cups rolled oats

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix-ins:

• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup white chocolate chips

Quick Steps:

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment.
2. Cream butter and sugars until fluffy.
3. Add eggs and vanilla, mix well.
4. Combine dry ingredients, fold into butter mixture.
5. Stir in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
6. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets.
7. Bake 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
8. Cool on sheets briefly, then transfer to wire rack.

Pro Tip: White chocolate’s sweetness balances cranberries’ tartness, creating a delightful cookie texture.

2. Snickerdoodle Cookies

Snickerdoodle cookies are a timeless holiday favorite, loved for their soft, chewy texture and signature cinnamon-sugar coating. Simple to make yet irresistibly delicious, they’re a holiday baking essential you won’t want to miss this Christmas.

Yields: 24 cookies Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cream of tartar
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs

Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Quick Steps:

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs.
4. Mix dry ingredients, fold into butter mixture.
5. Create cinnamon-sugar coating.
6. Roll dough balls in coating, flatten slightly.
7. Bake 8-10 minutes until edges set.
8. Cool on sheets, then transfer to wire rack.

Pro Tip: A classic holiday treat with soft, chewy texture and signature cinnamon-sugar coating.

3. Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies

Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies bring together the best of two worlds—rich, chewy brownies and classic chocolate cookies! Bursting with intense chocolate flavor, they’re the ultimate treat for satisfying your sweet tooth this holiday season. If you’re a brownie lover (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), these cookies are sure to become your new favorite.

Yields: 24 cookies Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional:

• 1/2 cup additional chocolate chips

Quick Steps:

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment.
2. Melt butter and chocolate chips in microwave.
3. Whisk sugar, eggs, vanilla.
4. Combine melted chocolate with sugar mixture.
5. Mix dry ingredients, fold into wet ingredients.
6. Add optional chocolate chips.
7. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets.
8. Bake 10-12 minutes until edges set.
9. Cool on sheets, then transfer to wire rack.

Pro Tip: Ultra-chocolatey cookies with soft centers and rich chocolate flavor.

4. Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies are a festive mash-up of all the best holiday flavors—loaded with chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, toffee bits, and more. These cookies are the ultimate sweet-and-salty treat, combining crunchy and chewy textures for a truly indulgent experience. They’re also a great way to use up leftover goodies from your pantry, so feel free to get creative with different candies and chocolates!

Serves: 24 cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 cup crushed pretzels
1/2 cup toffee bits
1/2 cup red and green M&Ms

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture.
Stir in the chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, crushed pretzels, toffee bits, and M&Ms.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

5. Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are a holiday classic, combining the decadent flavor of chocolate with a refreshing hint of peppermint. Crushed candy canes give them a festive flair and a satisfying crunch.

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully combined.
5. Add Mix-Ins: Fold in the chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.
6. Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Perfect for cookie exchanges, gift hampers, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa!

6. Spiced Molasses Cookies

Warm and rich with classic holiday spices, these Spiced Molasses Cookies are soft, chewy, and a perfect winter indulgence. Ideal for pairing with a warm beverage or sharing with loved ones during the festive season.

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Molasses and Egg: Mix in the molasses and egg until smooth and combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate this mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Shape and Roll: Roll the dough into small balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
6. Bake: Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft.
7. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

These cookies keep well in an airtight container and are perfect for holiday gifting or festive gatherings!

7. Classic Sugar Cookies

Classic Sugar Cookies are a holiday staple, perfect for decorating with festive frosting and sprinkles. These cookies are buttery, sweet, and have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone will love. They’re great for using as a base for decorating with kids for a fun activity!

These Classic Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays! They’re soft, buttery, and ideal for decorating with icing, sprinkles, or enjoying plain.

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut the dough into shapes.
6. Bake: Transfer the shaped dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These sugar cookies are a blank canvas for creative decorating or delicious just as they are! Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

8. Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread Cookies are a classic Christmas treat, full of warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. These cookies are perfect for decorating with royal icing and turning into festive shapes like gingerbread men.

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the molasses and egg until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll and Cut: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into festive shapes.
6. Bake: Transfer the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set.
7. Cool and Decorate: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating with icing, sprinkles, or other toppings.

These cookies are not only delicious but also fun to decorate, making them a favorite for holiday gatherings. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

9. White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies

These White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies are rich, buttery, and full of sweet white chocolate chips and crunchy macadamia nuts. They’re a decadent treat that’s perfect for the holiday season.

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring to combine.
5. Add White Chocolate and Nuts: Stir in the white chocolate chips and chopped macadamia nuts.
6. Shape Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a couple of inches apart.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

These cookies have a wonderful balance of sweetness and crunch from the macadamia nuts, making them a favorite at holiday gatherings or anytime you need a sweet treat.

10. Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies

These Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful holiday favorite with their buttery shortbread base and sweet, tangy raspberry jam filling. They’re easy to make and perfect for any festive occasion.

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until well combined.
5. Shape Dough: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Make Indentation: Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Fill with Jam: Spoon a small amount of raspberry jam into each indentation, filling it carefully.
8. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

These cookies are perfectly sweet with a wonderful buttery texture and a burst of fruity raspberry flavor in every bite. They’re great for holiday gift boxes or as part of your Christmas cookie platter!

11. Almond Snowball Cookies

Almond Snowball Cookies are buttery, nutty, and coated in powdered sugar, making them look like little snowballs. These cookies melt in your mouth and are a holiday favorite for many families. Why not make them a new tradition for yours?

Serves: 24 cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
Additional powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the almond extract.
Gradually add the flour and chopped almonds to the butter mixture.
Roll the dough into small balls and place on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while they’re still warm.
Allow the cookies to cool completely before rolling them in powdered sugar again.

12. Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Cookies

These Chocolate-Dipped Shortbread Cookies are a simple yet elegant holiday treat, featuring rich buttery shortbread cookies with a decadent dark chocolate dip. They are perfect for gifting or serving at holiday parties.

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (for dipping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll and Cut Dough: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into desired shapes.
5. Bake: Place the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
6. Melt Chocolate: Once the cookies are cool, melt the dark chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
7. Dip Cookies: Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set.

Let the chocolate fully set before serving or gifting. These cookies are a luxurious and festive treat that’s sure to impress!

13. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a comforting, wholesome treat with chewy oats and sweet raisins. These cookies are perfect for those who enjoy a slightly less sweet but equally delicious option for the holiday season.

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup raisins

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture.
5. Add Oats and Raisins: Stir in the rolled oats and raisins until well combined.
6. Shape Dough: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

These oatmeal raisin cookies are the perfect balance of wholesome oats and sweetness, making them a great choice for a festive yet comforting treat!

14. Cranberry Orange Cookies

Cranberry Orange Cookies offer a bright and zesty combination of flavors with the tartness of dried cranberries and the refreshing sweetness of orange. They’re perfect for adding a bit of brightness to your holiday cookie tray!

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture until just combined.
5. Add Cranberries: Stir in the dried cranberries.
6. Shape Dough: Roll the dough into balls and place on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

These Cranberry Orange Cookies are a refreshing addition to your holiday cookie assortment, providing a deliciously fruity twist on a classic flavor combination!

15. Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Cookies

Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Cookies are a rich and decadent treat, featuring a soft peanut butter cookie base dipped in smooth chocolate. These cookies are perfect for peanut butter lovers during the holiday season.

Serves: 24 cookies

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (for dipping)
Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture.
Roll the dough into balls and place on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Once the cookies are cool, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place on parchment paper to set.

16. Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies

Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies combine a rich, buttery shortbread base with a sweet and tangy lemon glaze, making them the perfect treat to brighten up your holiday festivities!

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• For the Cookies:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll and Cut Dough: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into your desired shapes.
5. Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
6. Make the Glaze: To make the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
7. Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top.

These Lemon Glazed Shortbread Cookies are a delightful, citrusy treat that add a burst of sunshine to any holiday gathering!

17. Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

These Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies feature a buttery shortbread base, filled with luscious homemade caramel, and topped with a sprinkle of sea salt. They’re a truly indulgent treat for the holiday season!

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• For the Cookies:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Caramel:
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • Sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
3. Shape and Indent Dough: Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
4. Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
5. Make the Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar until it turns golden brown. Once melted, add the butter and stir until combined. Gradually add the heavy cream and stir until smooth.
6. Fill and Sprinkle: Fill each cookie indentation with the caramel and sprinkle with sea salt for that perfect salty-sweet finish.

These Salted Caramel Thumbprint Cookies are rich, buttery, and perfectly balanced with a touch of sea salt, making them an irresistible addition to your holiday cookie collection!

18. Toffee Pecan Cookies

These Toffee Pecan Cookies are a delightful combination of crunchy pecans and rich toffee bits, making for a buttery, caramel-flavored treat that’s perfect for the holidays. Nut lovers will especially enjoy this sweet and savory cookie!

Servings: Makes 24 cookies

Ingredients:

• For the Cookies:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup toffee bits

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until combined.
5. Add Pecans and Toffee: Stir in the chopped pecans and toffee bits, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the dough.
6. Shape and Bake: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

These Toffee Pecan Cookies offer a perfect balance of buttery richness, nutty crunch, and caramelized sweetness, making them a standout treat on your holiday cookie tray!

19 . Vegan Gingerbread Cookies

A classic holiday treat reimagined for plant-based diets. Warm spices and molasses create a festive, chewy cookie.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cloves
• 1/2 cup vegan butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 tbsp plant-based milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Mix dry ingredients
2. Cream vegan butter, sugar, molasses
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients
4. Chill dough 1 hour
5. Roll, cut into shapes
6. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes

20 . Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Snowball Cookies

Holiday Twist: Festive, chocolate-peppermint cookies with melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• Powdered sugar for coating
• Crushed candy canes (optional)

Quick Steps:

1. Mix dry ingredients
2. Add wet ingredients
3. Form into balls
4. Refrigerate 30 minutes
5. Roll in powdered sugar
6. Bake at 325°F for 12-15 minutes
7. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes

Pro Tip: Chill dough to prevent spreading, ensure perfect snowball shape.