Holiday Cookie Favorites: A Complete Baking Lineup for Your Festive Season

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I’ll never forget the year I decided to host my first holiday cookie exchange. I was so nervous about what to bring that I ended up making six different types of cookies the weekend before. My kitchen looked like Santa’s workshop had exploded, but you know what? Every single recipe was a hit, and friends are still asking me to make them years later. That overwhelming baking marathon taught me something valuable: having a solid lineup of go-to holiday cookie recipes is essential for stress-free festive baking.

This collection of holiday cookie favorites represents the best of the best—recipes that are impressive enough for gift-giving but simple enough to make when you’re juggling a million other holiday tasks. From elegant chocolate covered graham crackers to addictive butterscotch haystacks, these holiday cookie favorites will make you the star of every cookie exchange, bake sale, and family gathering this season. Best of all, most of these recipes require minimal baking experience and use ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

What makes these holiday cookie favorites so special is their versatility and universal appeal. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, packaging gifts for neighbors, or simply want to fill your cookie jar with festive treats, this complete baking lineup has you covered. Each recipe offers something unique—some are no-bake for those extra-busy days, others are elegant enough for fancy parties, and all of them are absolutely delicious.

Looking at this beautiful holiday display, you can see exactly why these are considered holiday cookie favorites. Set against a rich red background decorated with holly, berries, and twinkling lights, there’s an impressive array of treats that would make any dessert table shine. In the upper left, chocolate covered graham crackers are displayed with elegant white chocolate drizzle and festive red and green sprinkles. The upper right showcases chocolate peanut butter clusters loaded with peanuts, marshmallows, and chocolate chips. The center features adorable Ritz cracker cookies—buttery crackers sandwiched with peanut butter filling and topped with chocolate and mini chocolate chips. The lower left displays a pile of golden butterscotch haystacks made with crunchy chow mein noodles. And the lower right shows marshmallow peanut butter bars studded with colorful pastel marshmallows and peanuts. Each recipe is labeled with its ingredient list, making it easy to see just how simple these holiday cookie favorites really are.

Recipe 1: Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers

Ingredients for Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers:

  • 8 honey graham crackers (16 halves)
  • 16 ounces chocolate almond bark (or vanilla almond bark for variety)
  • 4 ounces vanilla almond bark for drizzling
  • Holiday sprinkles

How to Make Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers:

These chocolate covered graham crackers are one of the easiest items in our holiday cookie favorites collection, yet they look incredibly professional. Start by breaking your graham crackers along the perforated lines to create individual rectangles. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Melt the chocolate almond bark according to package directions, either in the microwave in 30-second intervals or using a double boiler. Once melted and smooth, dip each graham cracker half into the chocolate, using a fork to flip it and ensure complete coverage. Lift the cracker with the fork, allowing excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Place the chocolate covered graham crackers on your prepared baking sheet.

While the chocolate is still wet, you can add sprinkles if desired. Once all crackers are coated, melt the vanilla almond bark and transfer it to a small zip-top bag. Snip off a tiny corner and drizzle the white chocolate in a zigzag pattern over the chocolate covered graham crackers. Immediately add more sprinkles if you’d like that festive pop of color. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes until the chocolate sets completely.

Recipe 2: Chocolate Peanut Butter Clusters

Ingredients for Chocolate Peanut Butter Clusters:

  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 cups milk chocolate chips
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cups miniature marshmallows
  • 1½ cups dry roasted cocktail peanut

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Clusters:

These chocolate peanut butter clusters are among the most addictive holiday cookie favorites you’ll ever make. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine both types of chocolate chips and the vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth—this usually takes about 2 minutes total.

Once your chocolate is melted, work quickly to fold in the miniature marshmallows and peanuts, stirring until everything is evenly coated with chocolate. The marshmallows will start to soften slightly from the heat of the chocolate, which helps them stick to the other ingredients.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, drop mounds of the chocolate peanut butter clusters onto the prepared sheet. Don’t worry about making them perfectly uniform—their rustic appearance is part of their charm. Refrigerate for about 20 minutes until the chocolate firms up completely. These chocolate peanut butter clusters store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature.

Recipe 3: Ritz Cracker Cookies

Ingredients for Ritz Cracker Cookies:

  • 60 Ritz crackers
  • 1½ cups creamy peanut butter
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

How to Make Ritz Cracker Cookies:

Ritz cracker cookies are a beloved addition to any holiday cookie favorites lineup because they combine salty and sweet in the most satisfying way. Start by making the peanut butter filling. In a medium bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter with the powdered sugar until well combined and smooth. The powdered sugar helps stabilize the filling and adds a touch of extra sweetness.

Spread about 1 teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture onto the bottom (salted side) of a Ritz cracker, then top with another cracker to create a sandwich, pressing gently so the filling reaches the edges. Repeat with all crackers—you should end up with 30 Ritz cracker cookie sandwiches.

Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or using a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Using a fork, dip each Ritz cracker cookie sandwich into the melted chocolate, turning to coat completely. Lift with the fork, allowing excess chocolate to drip off, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. While the chocolate is still wet, you can sprinkle mini chocolate chips or holiday sprinkles on top for decoration. Refrigerate these Ritz cracker cookies until the chocolate sets, about 20 minutes.

Recipe 4: Butterscotch Haystacks

Ingredients for Butterscotch Haystacks:

  • 7 cups chow mein noodles
  • 1½ cups butterscotch chips
  • ⅔ cup peanut butter
  • ⅓ cup salted peanuts (optional)

How to Make Butterscotch Haystacks:

Butterscotch haystacks are perhaps the quickest recipe in this holiday cookie favorites collection—they literally take 10 minutes from start to finish. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the butterscotch chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until completely melted and smooth. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes total.

Add the chow mein noodles to the melted butterscotch mixture, stirring gently but thoroughly to coat every noodle. If you’re using peanuts, fold them in at this point. The chow mein noodles are delicate, so mix carefully to avoid breaking them too much, though some breakage is inevitable and doesn’t affect the final result.

Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment-lined baking sheets, shaping them into small mounds that resemble haystacks. These butterscotch haystacks set up quickly at room temperature, but you can refrigerate them for about 10 minutes if you’re in a hurry. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Recipe 5: Marshmallow Peanut Butter Bars

Ingredients for Marshmallow Peanut Butter Bars:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 11 ounces butterscotch chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 10 ounces fruity-flavored mini marshmallows

How to Make Marshmallow Peanut Butter Bars:

These marshmallow peanut butter bars are the showstopper of our holiday cookie favorites collection. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter, peanut butter, and butterscotch chips together, stirring constantly until smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes—this prevents the marshmallows from melting completely when you add them.

Gently fold the mini marshmallows into the peanut butter mixture, stirring until they’re evenly distributed throughout. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. The mixture will be thick and a bit sticky, so you might want to spray your spatula with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Refrigerate these marshmallow peanut butter bars for at least 2 hours until firm. Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into squares. For the cleanest cuts, wipe your knife with a damp cloth between cuts.

Since this is a collection of different recipes, nutritional information varies by recipe:

Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers (per cracker):

  • Calories: 145, Fat: 8g, Carbs: 18g, Protein: 2g

Chocolate Peanut Butter Clusters (per cluster):

  • Calories: 125, Fat: 7g, Carbs: 14g, Protein: 3g

Ritz Cracker Cookies (per cookie):

  • Calories: 155, Fat: 10g, Carbs: 14g, Protein: 4g

Butterscotch Haystacks (per haystack):

  • Calories: 95, Fat: 5g, Carbs: 12g, Protein: 2g

Marshmallow Peanut Butter Bars (per bar):

  • Calories: 165, Fat: 9g, Carbs: 19g, Protein: 3g

The beauty of this holiday cookie favorites collection is how well they work together for gift-giving and entertaining. Create stunning cookie trays by arranging different varieties on a large platter or in festive tins. The variety of colors, textures, and shapes makes for an eye-catching display.

For gift-giving, pack these holiday cookie favorites in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons, or arrange them in decorative tins lined with tissue paper. Include a small card listing what’s inside—people always appreciate knowing what they’re about to enjoy.

When presenting these holiday cookie favorites at parties, group similar items together but create visual interest with height variations. Use small cake stands or stack them on tiered dessert plates. The different colors and textures naturally complement each other beautifully.

These holiday cookie favorites pair wonderfully with various beverages:

Hot chocolate: The rich, creamy chocolate complements all of these treats, especially the chocolate covered graham crackers and chocolate peanut butter clusters.

Coffee: A strong cup of coffee balances the sweetness perfectly and is a classic choice with any of these holiday cookie favorites.

Cold milk: Traditional and always welcome, especially for kids. The creamy milk provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet treats.

Eggnog: For an adults-only gathering, spiked or regular eggnog pairs beautifully with these holiday cookie favorites.

Hot apple cider: The warm spices in cider complement the butterscotch haystacks and marshmallow peanut butter bars especially well.

The wonderful thing about these holiday cookie favorites is how customizable they are:

Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers variations: Use dark chocolate or white chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Try cinnamon or chocolate graham crackers for different base flavors. Add crushed candy canes, nuts, or toffee bits before the chocolate sets.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Clusters variations: Swap peanuts for cashews, almonds, or mixed nuts. Add dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity touch. Use all dark chocolate for a less sweet version.

Ritz Cracker Cookies variations: Try Nutella instead of peanut butter for a different flavor profile. Use white chocolate coating for variety. Add a small piece of pretzel on top before the chocolate sets for extra crunch.

Butterscotch Haystacks variations: Replace butterscotch chips with chocolate chips or peanut butter chips. Add coconut flakes for tropical flair. Mix in mini marshmallows for extra sweetness.

Marshmallow Peanut Butter Bars variations: Use regular-sized marshmallows cut into pieces. Add chocolate chips for extra decadence. Swap butterscotch chips for white chocolate or peanut butter chips.

After making these holiday cookie favorites countless times, here are my essential tips:

  1. Buy quality chocolate: Higher quality chocolate and almond bark melt more smoothly and taste better in your holiday cookie favorites.
  2. Line everything: Parchment paper is your friend! It prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
  3. Work at room temperature: Most of these recipes work best when ingredients are at room temperature, as they combine more easily.
  4. Don’t rush the setting time: Allow adequate time for chocolate and butterscotch to set completely before storing or packaging your holiday cookie favorites.
  5. Store separately: Some of these holiday cookie favorites store best in the refrigerator while others are fine at room temperature. Store each type separately for best results.
  6. Make ahead: Most of these holiday cookie favorites can be made 3-5 days in advance, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.
  7. Double batches: These recipes are easy to double, and you’ll be glad you did—they disappear fast!
  8. Temperature control: When melting chocolate or butterscotch, use low heat and stir frequently to prevent scorching.

How far in advance can I make these holiday cookie favorites?

Most of these recipes can be made 3-5 days in advance and stored in airtight containers. The chocolate covered graham crackers and Ritz cracker cookies can even be frozen for up to 2 months. Butterscotch haystacks and marshmallow peanut butter bars are best within 3-4 days.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of almond bark for holiday cookie favorites?

While almond bark melts smoother and sets up firmer, you can use chocolate chips. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or shortening per cup of chocolate chips to help with consistency.

Do these holiday cookie favorites need to be refrigerated?

The marshmallow peanut butter bars and chocolate peanut butter clusters should be refrigerated, especially in warm weather. The others can be stored at cool room temperature but will last longer in the refrigerator.

Can I make these holiday cookie favorites nut-free?

Yes! For the peanut butter recipes, try sunflower seed butter or Wow Butter as substitutes. Simply omit nuts from any recipe or replace with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

What’s the best way to package holiday cookie favorites for gifts?

Use food-safe containers like decorative tins, clear cellophane bags, or holiday boxes. Layer different varieties with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Include labels identifying each type.

Can kids help make these holiday cookie favorites?

Absolutely! These are perfect for baking with children. Kids can help assemble sandwiches for Ritz cracker cookies, drop spoonfuls for haystacks, and add sprinkles to chocolate covered graham crackers. Just supervise melting chocolate.

Why did my chocolate seize up when making holiday cookie favorites?

Chocolate seizes when even a small amount of water gets into it. Make sure all bowls and utensils are completely dry. If chocolate seizes, try stirring in a teaspoon of vegetable oil to smooth it out.

Having a reliable collection of holiday cookie favorites takes the stress out of festive baking. Whether you’re facing a cookie exchange, planning holiday gifts for neighbors, or simply want to keep your cookie jar stocked with seasonal treats, this complete baking lineup has you covered. The best part? None of these recipes require advanced baking skills, expensive equipment, or hard-to-find ingredients.

What makes these holiday cookie favorites truly special is their versatility. You can make just one recipe for a quick treat, or spend a weekend making all five for a spectacular dessert spread that will be the talk of every gathering. They also make wonderful gifts—there’s something deeply personal and meaningful about homemade treats during the holidays.

This year, embrace the joy of holiday baking with these tried-and-true recipes. Your kitchen will smell amazing, your cookie tins will be full, and your friends and family will be asking for these holiday cookie favorites year after year. My final tip? Set aside a secret stash for yourself before packaging everything for gifts—you’ll thank me later! Happy baking, and may your holiday season be as sweet as these delicious treats!

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