Cookies and Christmas go hand in hand. Whether you’re leaving them out for Santa or sharing them with neighbors as a thoughtful gift, baking cookies is a festive activity the whole family can enjoy together. Decorating your creations is half the fun, allowing each cookie to become a little work of art. If you’re looking to add some sweetness to your holiday season, we’ve rounded up six cookies that are perfect to bake, decorate, and indulge in this year.

Gingerbread cookies

A timeless holiday favorite, gingerbread cookies are often shaped like little people, each one ready to be personalized with icing and candy. For a bigger project, turn them into a 3D gingerbread house, decorated with colorful candies and lots of creativity. If you prefer something simpler, classic round or star-shaped cookies work beautifully. Pair the spiced dough with peppermint accents or sweet frosting for a nostalgic flavor that instantly evokes cherished holiday memories.

Brown butter snickerdoodles

Snickerdoodles are a beloved classic, and adding brown butter takes them to the next level. The warm, nutty flavor complements the cinnamon sugar coating, creating a soft, melt-in-your-mouth treat. These cookies are best served fresh from the oven, perfect for gifting or enjoying alongside a cup of coffee or hot cocoa. Once you taste them, they’re hard to resist, and your friends and family will be asking for more!

Holiday sugar cookies with royal icing

Sugar cookies hold a special place in every holiday baking tradition, especially for kids. They’re a canvas for creativity, from bright frosting designs to sprinkles, candy, and fun shapes. Stars, trees, and snowflakes come alive on the cookie sheet, creating a festive collage that’s almost too pretty to eat. Bonus points for leaving a few out with a glass of milk for Santa, as he’s sure to leave extra presents for such a thoughtful treat.

Red velvet with cream cheese drizzle

For chocolate lovers, red velvet cookies are a holiday must. Often studded with white chocolate chips and topped with a sweet cream cheese drizzle, these cookies are as visually stunning as they are indulgent. Their rich, soft texture and festive red color make them perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or a cozy night in with family.

Oatmeal toffee

Toffee is a treat on its own, but combined with chewy oatmeal, it becomes a flavor-packed cookie everyone will love. The soft, slightly nutty oatmeal complements the buttery crunch of the toffee, making these cookies a standout at any holiday gathering. They’re also easy to prepare, which makes them a great last-minute addition to your cookie tray or a sweet gift to share.

Chocolate dipped shortbread

Simple yet elegant, shortbread cookies dipped in chocolate are a classic that never goes out of style. After dipping, add a sprinkle of crushed candy or festive colored sugar for a little extra flair. These cookies make a beautiful gift when wrapped in a bag with a ribbon, or simply serve them at home as a decadent treat alongside your favorite holiday beverages.

Enjoy your baking

No matter which cookies you choose, baking during the holidays is about more than just the final product, it’s about creating memories and sharing joy. Adding your own twists and decorations makes homemade treats even more special, showing the heart and care behind every batch.

At State and Lake Chicago Tavern, we know the holidays are about celebrating together. That’s why all of our dishes are made with love, from hearty entrees to decadent desserts. Join us this season for a special Christmas menu designed to delight the whole family. Reserve your seat here and make your holiday a deliciously memorable one!