Festive Cookie Recipes Worth Turning On the Oven For

The holidays are the perfect excuse to fill your kitchen with the aroma of freshly baked cookies. From timeless classics to creative new favorites, baking becomes more than just a task, it’s a cozy way to bring warmth and joy to your home.

These festive cookie recipes are designed to make your baking time both simple and rewarding. Whether you’re preparing treats for a party, gifting loved ones, or just craving something sweet, each batch promises comfort and cheer.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let the scent of sugar, spice, and everything nice take over your space. There’s nothing quite like homemade cookies to make the season feel truly special.

Matcha Sugar Cookies

These soft and chewy cookies bring a unique twist to the classic sugar cookie, thanks to the earthy flavor of matcha. They’re subtly sweet with a vibrant green hue that makes them stand out on any cookie tray. Perfect for anyone who enjoys something a little different with their afternoon coffee or tea.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Sugar Cookies

Pecan Thumbprint Cookies

Buttery and nutty, these cookies are a nostalgic favorite. The center dollop of jam brings a fruity surprise that pairs perfectly with the crunch of toasted pecans. Great for gifting or adding to a holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Thumbprint Cookies

Dirty Chai Earthquake Cookies

A bold cookie with a crackled surface that hints at the punch of espresso and chai spices baked inside. They’ve got just enough sweetness to balance the warm, spiced profile. Ideal for folks who prefer their cookies with a bit of a kick.
Get the Recipe: Dirty Chai Earthquake Cookies

Lacy Oatmeal Cookies

These thin, crisp-edged cookies have a delicate, web-like look that’s just as fun to eat as it is to admire. The oats give them a nutty, toasty flavor that pairs beautifully with coffee or hot chocolate. Bonus: they store well for snacking later.
Get the Recipe: Lacy Oatmeal Cookies

Spicy Hot Gingersnaps

This isn’t your average gingersnap. Packed with extra ginger and a pinch of cayenne or black pepper, they’ve got a warming heat that lingers. Great for cozy evenings and cookie swaps with a little surprise.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Hot Gingersnaps

Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Soft, rich, and coated in a snowy layer of powdered sugar, these cookies are as pretty as they are flavorful. The cocoa adds depth while the bright red color makes them feel festive year-round. A sweet pick for red velvet fans.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies

Pecan Pie bars

All the sticky-sweet goodness of pecan pie, just easier to serve. These bars feature a buttery shortbread base topped with a gooey, nutty layer that’s hard to resist. Great for potlucks, bake sales, or low-effort holiday treats.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie bars

Double Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

Think of these as a hearty cookie with a dessert edge. The oats give chew and structure, while double the chocolate means extra richness in every bite. They feel like a little reward, without going overboard.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

Sugar-Free Nutella Cookies

Chocolate-hazelnut spread gets the spotlight in this lower-sugar treat. Soft, fudgy, and indulgent without the crash, they’re a nice option for those watching their sugar intake. Great with a glass of milk or an afternoon snack.
Get the Recipe: Sugar-Free Nutella Cookies

Tahini Cookies

Nutty, slightly savory, and lightly sweet, tahini brings something unexpected here. These cookies have a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a subtle sesame flavor that works surprisingly well in dessert form. A great pantry-cookie when you’re short on butter.
Get the Recipe: Tahini Cookies

Almond Crescent Cookies

These buttery crescents are delicate, crumbly, and often dusted with powdered sugar for a snowy finish. The almond flavor comes through without being overpowering. A classic pick for cookie tins or tea time.
Get the Recipe: Almond Crescent Cookies

Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

Soft and slightly chewy with a bright citrus note, these cookies keep things light. Almond flour makes them gluten-friendly and gives them a subtle nuttiness. They’re a great refresher between richer desserts.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Lemon Cookies

Hershey Kiss Cookie

A childhood favorite for good reason, soft, buttery cookie bases with a milk chocolate kiss pressed on top. These cookies are simple but always a hit, especially at parties and holiday exchanges. Quick to make, quicker to disappear.
Get the Recipe: Hershey Kiss Cookie

Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

With only a handful of ingredients, these cookies are both fuss-free and naturally gluten-free. Almond flour adds moisture and a hint of nuttiness to the peanut butter base. Great for meal prepping or quick weeknight baking.
Get the Recipe: Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies

Chocolate Dipped Brandy Snaps

Crisp, lacy cookies that offer a gentle crunch and a hint of spice. Dipping them in chocolate gives an elegant finish without much effort. They feel fancy enough for guests, but easy enough for a weekday bake.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Dipped Brandy Snaps

Caramel Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Each cookie cradles a puddle of caramel, sometimes finished with a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of salt. The shortbread-like base balances the richness nicely. They’re a bit messy, but worth it.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies

Hot Chocolate Cookies

These taste just like the cozy drink, soft, rich, and often topped with marshmallows or chocolate chunks. Best enjoyed warm, they’re a hit with kids and grown-ups alike. Perfect for chilly nights or holiday trays.
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Cookies

Chewy Molasses Cookies

These are all about deep flavor and soft texture. With a crackled top and rich molasses undertones, they’re spiced just right. Comforting and simple, they pair well with tea or milk.
Get the Recipe: Chewy Molasses Cookies

Orange Cinnamon Millionaire Bars

Classic millionaire bars get a fresh twist with bright orange zest and warm cinnamon. The layers which are shortbread, caramel, and chocolate still shine, just with a hint of citrusy flair. A great choice if you’re looking for something rich but not too sweet.
Get the Recipe: Orange Cinnamon Millionaire Bars

Double Chocolate Cherry Biscotti

Twice-baked and ready for dunking, these biscotti feature chunks of chocolate and tart dried cherries. They hold up well in storage and are sturdy enough for gifting. A solid match for a strong cup of coffee.
Get the Recipe: Double Chocolate Cherry Biscotti

Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies

If you’re looking for quick and pretty, these are it. Made with cake mix, they’re soft, chewy, and always bake up with a bold red color. Great for last-minute dessert needs without sacrificing flavor.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cake Mix Cookies