I make these 10 festive Christmas cookies all holiday long

Holiday baking always feels a little easier when you have a few go-to festive Christmas cookies you can count on. These are the ones that fill your kitchen with that cozy smell and come together without much fuss.

They’re great for sharing with neighbors, bringing to family gatherings, or keeping on the counter for everyone to nibble on. If you like simple recipes that still feel special, you’ll enjoy making these all season long.

1. Christmas M&M Pudding Cookies

A close up shot of Santa's cookies. — Photo Credit: On My Kids Plate

These cookies mix chocolate, marshmallows, and pretzels for a treat everyone will enjoy. The colorful mix-ins make them a fun option for holiday snacking and gifting.

Get the Recipe: Christmas M&M Pudding Cookies

2. Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

A close up shot of chocolate candy cane cookies. — Photo Credit: I Heart Eating

A dip in white chocolate and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes give these chocolate cookies a tasty peppermint twist. You’ll want to fill your Christmas cookie tray with these.

Get the Recipe: Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

3. Gingerbread Men Cookies

A close up shot of gingerbread men cookies. — Photo Credit: Princess Pinky Girl

These classic cutouts bake up soft and chewy with a warm molasses flavor, and you can be creative as you want decorating them. Bring them to a Christmas party, and you’ll go home with an empty plate.

Get the Recipe: Gingerbread Men Cookies

4. Drop Sugar Cookies

A close up shot of sugar cookies. — Photo Credit: I Heart Naptime

These homemade drop sugar cookies with festive sprinkles couldn’t be easier to make. They’re great for days when you want sugar cookies without the hassle of rolling or cutting.

Get the Recipe: Drop Sugar Cookies

5. Snowball Kiss Cookies

A close up shot of snowball cookies. — Photo Credit: I Heart Eating

Each snowball cookie hides a Hershey’s Kiss inside, making them even tastier. They store well so that you can make them ahead of time for holiday platters.

Get the Recipe: Snowball Kiss Cookies

6. Christmas Cornflake Wreath Cookies

A close up shot of Christmas wreath cookies. — Photo Credit: On My Kids Plate

Cornflakes coated in a gooey mixture form bright green wreaths that bring a nostalgic touch to dessert tables. Since they’re made on the stovetop, they’re a nice option when you don’t want to turn on the oven.

Get the Recipe: Christmas Cornflake Wreath Cookies

7. Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies

A close up shot of red velvet cookies. — Photo Credit: Crayons and Cravings

A boxed mix creates soft red velvet cookies mixed with white chocolate chips. All you need are five ingredients to make these, making them an excellent budget-friendly option.

Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies

8. Gingersnap Cookies

A close up shot of gingersnap cookies. — Photo Credit: I Heart Naptime

These thin cookies are crispy and full of ginger flavor. They’ll be a hit at your Christmas cookie exchange.

Get the Recipe: Gingersnap Cookies

9. Hot Chocolate Cookies

A close up shot of chocolate cookies. — Photo Credit: I Heart Eating

Marshmallow bits and chunks of chocolate give these cookies the cozy feel of a cup of hot cocoa. They’re a fun pick when you want something extra chocolatey for winter gatherings.

Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Cookies