Every holiday season, Rita and I go into full cookie mode! Partly because we love them, but mostly because our family and friends beg us to make these. I’m not kidding… we get actual phone calls asking, “Are you making the cookies this year?” So yes, prepare yourself, because once you make these, you’ll be making them on repeat every December!
The truth is, they’re all surprisingly easy to make, which is why we never mind making batch after batch. These are the cookies that always disappear first on the holiday table, and they make amazing little gifts too. Simple, delicious, and guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Let’s bake!
1) Chocolate Bonbon Cookies
Rita’s chocolate bonbon cookies are unlike anything I’ve ever tasted. They’re a huge hit on our Christmas table, which is why they had to be number one on this list. Crisp on the outside, soft and chocolaty inside, and with a surprise bonbon tucked right in the middle. They’re so fun to customize too… Lindt truffles, mini Reese’s cups, anything works!
2) Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies
Rita’s Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies are officially part of our Christmas Eve tradition now. Soft, fudgy, and full of rich chocolate flavor, then rolled in sugar for that perfect crackled top. They look as good as they taste. And they’re ready in about 30 minutes, which makes them even better.
3) Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies
These chocolate thumbprint cookies are the one Christmas cookie I never skip. Soft, chewy, festive, and so easy to make. You eat one… and suddenly you’re reaching for a second (and a third). They’re that addictive. Filled with rich chocolate ganache and topped with crushed candy canes, they’re pure holiday perfection.
4) Snowball Cookies
Rita and I tested more than five versions of these snowball cookies until we finally nailed the perfect flavor, texture, and look. Made with chopped pecans, they’re a true Christmas classic. Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth, and unbelievably easy to make.
They’re also freezer-friendly and egg-free, which makes them ideal for gifting, sharing, or adding to your holiday cookie tray.
5) 3-Ingredient Sugar Cut-out Cookies
Rita’s 3-ingredient sugar cut-out cookies are pure buttery perfection. They’re soft, tender centers with lightly crisp golden edges. They hold their shape beautifully in the oven, and you only need three ingredients to make them.
Perfect for decorating with icing and sprinkles or enjoying them plain. Either way, they’re delicious every time,
6) Best-Ever Marry Me Cookies
Rita’s “Marry Me” cookies have been her signature and most viral recipe. She’s been making these since 2014! They have crispy edges, soft melt-in-your-mouth centers, and pure magic in every bite.
They’re her all-time favorite cookies, and honestly perfect for the holidays or any day of the year. These are the kind of cookies that make everyone fall in love at first bite.
7) Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Rita’s oatmeal raisin cookies are the best and easiest you’ll ever try. Soft, chewy, and full of warm cinnamon flavor, they’re made with simple pantry staples and they’re naturally dairy-free. The perfect cozy cookie for winter days or holiday gifting.
Rita is the real cookie chef in our house… I’m mostly the cookie monster who shows up to “taste test” everything she makes, haha.
The truth is, all of these recipes are incredibly easy and genuinely fun to bake. No fancy tools, no complicated ingredients… just simple pantry staples that turn into something magical.
They’re the kind of cookies you can make with your kids or nephews, the cozy moments that become core memories. A lot of these recipes were passed down from our moms, so they feel extra special to us.
And if you’re in a baking mood, we’ve also put together a roundup of quick Christmas treats you can make in under half an hour, plus a little collection of super easy 3-ingredient sweets. And for days when you want dessert without even turning on the oven, we’ve got you covered there too.
Hope these cookies fill your home with all the warmth, sweetness, and little traditions that make the holidays so special.
