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    Home / Roundups

    15 Holiday Cookie Recipes That Won’t Overwhelm You

    By Lisa MarcAurele · Dec 4, 2024 · This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosures.

    Holiday baking should feel like a joy, not a juggling act, and that’s why I love these cookie recipes. They’re simple, quick, and perfect for creating something special without taking over your entire day. Whether you’re baking for a party, a gift, or just to enjoy at home, these cookies keep the fun in the season and the stress out of the kitchen.

    A plate of almond biscotti with a small bowl of chocolate sauce on a blue and white striped cloth. Almonds are scattered around.
    Almond Biscotti. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

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    Chocolate Chip Coconut Flour Cookies

    A stack of chocolate chip cookies on a white plate, with one cookie broken in half to show the chocolate chips inside.
    Chocolate Chip Coconut Flour Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These cookies bring together a rich, chocolatey flavor with the subtle nuttiness of coconut flour, making them ideal for the holiday season. Their quick preparation means you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours. The texture is soft with just the right amount of chew, perfect for pairing with a warm drink. They’re also a smaller batch, so you won’t have too many leftovers to manage. These cookies are a simple yet thoughtful addition to your holiday baking list.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Coconut Flour Cookies

    Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

    Chocolate oatmeal cookies on a white plate, one broken in half, showing a soft interior, with loose chocolate chips scattered around on a white surface.
    Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Perfect for when you want a comforting holiday cookie without committing to a large batch, these cookies combine hearty oats with melty chocolate chips. They bake up quickly, making them an excellent choice for busy holiday days. The balance of chewy and crisp textures ensures they’ll disappear fast. With their warm, homemade feel, they’re just right for small gatherings or gifting. These are the kind of cookies that make your baking time stress-free and enjoyable.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

    Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

    Lemon ricotta cookies on rack with icing bowl.
    Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These light and tender cookies have a refreshing lemon flavor, making them a bright option for holiday spreads. They come together with minimal effort, saving you time for other seasonal activities. The ricotta keeps them moist and soft, ensuring they stay fresh longer. Their zesty hint adds variety to traditional cookie trays without being overwhelming. These cookies are a cheerful and simple addition to your holiday baking.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

    Vegan and Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies

    Two oatmeal cookies on a white plate, with a crumbly texture and visible oats, displayed on a light-colored tablecloth.
    Vegan and Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These oatmeal cookies offer a hearty texture and natural sweetness that everyone can enjoy, no matter their preferences. Quick to mix and bake, they’re great for keeping things simple during the busy holiday season. The ingredients create a chewy treat that feels comforting without being heavy. Perfect for small gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift. They’re a low-stress way to share a classic flavor this season.
    Get the Recipe: Vegan and Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies

    Cinnamon Roll Cookies

    Cinnamon roll cookies with icing are placed on a sheet of parchment paper on a cooling rack. Two cinnamon sticks are visible beside them.
    Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    With the warm spice of cinnamon and a buttery base, these cookies mimic the flavors of a cozy cinnamon roll in a compact form. They’re easy to prepare and don’t require complicated steps, ideal for holiday baking. The swirl pattern adds a festive touch to your cookie platter. These cookies deliver big flavor in manageable portions, making them great for smaller holiday celebrations. A sweet and simple twist on a classic treat.
    Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Cookies

    Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

    Chocolate oatmeal no-bake cookies on a white plate.
    Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These cookies skip the oven entirely, making them perfect for saving time when your kitchen is already busy. The chocolate and oatmeal combo brings a rich, satisfying texture that fits into any holiday lineup. They set quickly, so you’ll have a treat ready to share in no time. A nostalgic option that’s as simple as it is rewarding. These cookies are a lifesaver when you need something quick yet thoughtful.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

    3-Ingredient Almond Butter Cookies

    A stack of round cookies on a plate with one cookie partially eaten. A glass of milk is in the background.
    3-Ingredient Almond Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    With just three ingredients, these cookies are a holiday hero for anyone short on time. They’re wonderfully soft and nutty, with a simplicity that lets the almond flavor shine. No need for complicated techniques or long prep times here. The small-batch nature means they’re perfect for intimate gatherings or gift boxes. These cookies prove that less is often more when it comes to holiday baking.
    Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Almond Butter Cookies

    Healthier Single-Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie

    A large chocolate chip cookie with a piece broken off, next to a glass of milk and a bowl of chocolate chips on a white surface.
    Healthier Single-Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    This single-serve cookie is a smart choice for when you want something sweet without overdoing it during the holiday rush. It bakes up in minutes, making it great for a quick treat. The chocolate chip-filled bite delivers all the coziness of homemade cookies without a big production. Ideal for a quiet evening or a moment of self-care amidst the holiday chaos. This recipe is a reminder that holiday baking doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
    Get the Recipe: Healthier Single-Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie

    Brown Sugar Cookies

    A stack of crisp brown sugar cookies on a plate with one cookie broken in half, accompanied by a glass of milk and a striped napkin.
    Brown Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Soft and buttery, these cookies highlight the rich flavor of brown sugar, making them a standout on any holiday tray. They’re quick to whip up, which is always a bonus during a busy season. The warm, caramel-like notes pair beautifully with tea or coffee. Their simplicity makes them versatile and easy to love. These cookies bring a classic touch to your holiday celebrations without any extra fuss.
    Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Cookies

    Almond Biscotti

    A plate of almond biscotti with a small bowl of chocolate sauce on a blue and white striped cloth. Almonds are scattered around.
    Almond Biscotti. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These twice-baked cookies offer a crisp texture and a nutty almond flavor that’s perfect for dipping into coffee or tea. They’re straightforward to prepare and store well, making them great for gifting or enjoying over several days. The light sweetness adds balance without being overly rich. Their firm texture makes them ideal for holiday mornings or as an after-dinner treat. Biscotti are a practical yet elegant option for seasonal baking.
    Get the Recipe: Almond Biscotti

    Apple Pie Cookies

    Close-up of baked apple pie cookies with a fruit topping, cooling on a black wire rack. A pink kitchen towel and a white mug are partially visible in the background.
    Apple Pie Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These cookies capture the essence of apple pie in a compact, hand-held form, perfect for holiday snacking. They’re simple to make and bring warm, spiced flavors that feel right at home this time of year. The apple filling and buttery base create a comforting bite without requiring a pie pan. They’re a fun way to offer a pie-inspired treat without the extra effort. A festive twist on a classic holiday dessert.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cookies

    Eggless Peanut Butter Cookies

    A person dipping a peanut butter cookie into a glass of milk, with more stacked cookies on a plate in the background.
    Eggless Peanut Butter Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These peanut butter cookies are soft, rich, and easy to bake, making them a go-to for the holiday season. Their eggless recipe makes them accessible to more people without sacrificing flavor or texture. They’re a quick option for when you want to add variety to your cookie tray. The nutty flavor pairs well with other seasonal treats. A simple, reliable recipe for stress-free holiday baking.
    Get the Recipe: Eggless Peanut Butter Cookies

    Healthy Breakfast Cookies

    Seed and nut butter cookies on plate served with coffee.
    Healthy Breakfast Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Packed with wholesome ingredients, these cookies are a practical option for a holiday breakfast or snack on the go. They’re easy to make and hold up well, perfect for busy mornings. The subtle sweetness and chewy texture make them appealing without being overly indulgent. These cookies add variety to your holiday treats with a less traditional yet convenient option. A thoughtful recipe for those hectic holiday moments.
    Get the Recipe: Healthy Breakfast Cookies

    Small-Batch Sugar Cookies

    A plate of sugar cookies with a mug of milk and a gray cloth in the background.
    Small-Batch Sugar Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These sugar cookies are ideal for a quick and easy baking session during the holidays. They bake up with a tender texture and just the right amount of sweetness. The small batch means they’re perfect for decorating without having too many leftovers. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, they’re a fun addition to your holiday cookie list. A no-fuss option that still feels festive.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Sugar Cookies

    Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies

    A plate with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, one cookie is broken in half to show the soft inside.
    Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    These cookies bring all the classic chocolate chip flavor in a manageable portion, perfect for smaller celebrations. They’re quick to prepare, making them great for last-minute holiday baking. The soft, chewy texture ensures they’ll be a crowd-pleaser without being overwhelming. They’re an easy way to offer a homemade treat without overcommitting. These cookies fit seamlessly into a stress-free holiday baking plan.
    Get the Recipe: Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies

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    About Lisa MarcAurele

    Lisa MarcAurele is a blogger and cookbook author. She created Little Bit Recipes to help people save money by minimizing leftovers when cooking for one or two people. Lisa is also a co-founder of Daily Life Travels, where you can discover new places to visit and things to do. You can sign up for her recipe emails to see all her latest content.

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