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    Home » Best Of

    26 Make-Ahead Christmas Cookies, Cakes and Bars Everyone Loves

    Sarita Harbour.
    Modified: May 7, 2025 by Sarita Harbour · This post may contain affiliate links·
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    The holiday season is busy, but make-ahead Christmas cookies, cakes, and bars can save you time and stress. These treats let you prepare in advance, so you’re always ready for guests, gifting, or those late-night snack cravings. They’re easy to store and just as enjoyable fresh from the freezer as they are from the oven. Plus, baking ahead gives you more time to relax and enjoy the festive moments that matter most. If you’re aiming for convenience without giving up holiday cheer, these ideas are perfect.

    Easy Apple Cider Blondies Recipe

    Pin
    Easy Apple Cider Blondies Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    These blondies bring warm apple cider flavors to the table, making them a cozy addition to make-ahead Christmas cookies. They’re easy to slice and store for holiday festivities.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Cider Blondies Recipe

    Easy Apple Oatmeal Cookies

    Pin
    Easy Apple Oatmeal Cookies. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    Packed with warm apple flavors and hearty oats, these cookies are a wholesome choice for make-ahead Christmas cookies. They freeze well and are great for sharing with friends and family.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Apple Oatmeal Cookies

    Flourless Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies

    Pin
    Flourless Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies. Photo credit: Fit as a Mama Bear.

    These peanut butter cookies are quick to make and perfect for make-ahead Christmas cookies. Adding a dollop of your favorite jam or chocolate makes them festive and fun.
    Get the Recipe: Flourless Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies

    Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies

    Pin
    Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These cookies put sourdough discard to good use, resulting in a chewy and flavorful treat. They’re a perfect pick for make-ahead Christmas cookies that add a homemade touch to the holidays.
    Get the Recipe: Sourdough Discard Chocolate Chip Cookies

    Grandma's Molasses Cookie Recipe

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    Grandma's Molasses Cookie Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These molasses cookies are rich, spiced, and perfect for the holidays. As make-ahead Christmas cookies, they store well and only get more flavorful over time, making them a nostalgic favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Grandma's Molasses Cookie Recipe

    Triple Chocolate Dipped Cookies

    Pin
    Triple Chocolate Dipped Cookies. Photo credit: Honest And Truly.

    Packed with layers of chocolate, these cookies are a treat for any holiday table. They’re a great option for make-ahead Christmas cookies since they keep their rich flavor and texture when stored.
    Get the Recipe: Triple Chocolate Dipped Cookies

    Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

    Pin
    Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    These snickerdoodles get a seasonal upgrade with pumpkin and warm spices. Their chewy texture makes them an excellent choice for make-ahead Christmas cookies that stay fresh for days.
    Get the Recipe: Chewy Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

    Peanut Butter Brownies

    Pin
    Peanut Butter Brownies. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

    These rich and fudgy brownies combine chocolate and peanut butter in every bite. They’re a great addition to make-ahead Christmas cookies, as they stay moist and delicious for days.
    Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Brownies

    Fast and Easy 4 Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies

    Pin
    Fast and Easy 4 Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    These simple chocolate chip cookies are perfect for quick holiday baking. Their short ingredient list and ability to freeze well make them an excellent option for make-ahead Christmas cookies.
    Get the Recipe: Fast and Easy 4 Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies

    Sugar-Free Keto Meringue Cookies Recipe

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    Sugar-Free Keto Meringue Cookies Recipe. Photo credit: Low Carb No Carb.

    These airy meringue cookies are light, crisp, and a great choice for make-ahead Christmas cookies. Their simple ingredients and long shelf life make them ideal for holiday gatherings.
    Get the Recipe: Sugar-Free Keto Meringue Cookies Recipe

    Apple Cider Shortbread Cookies

    Pin
    Apple Cider Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    Crisp and buttery with a hint of apple cider, these shortbread cookies are perfect for make-ahead Christmas cookies. They store beautifully and pair well with holiday beverages.
    Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Shortbread Cookies

    Mom’s Best Cheesecake Swirled Nutella Bars

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    Mom’s Best Cheesecake Swirled Nutella Bars. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    With creamy cheesecake and rich Nutella swirls, these bars are a decadent choice for make-ahead Christmas cookies. They stay fresh in the fridge, making them ideal for holiday gatherings.
    Get the Recipe: Mom’s Best Cheesecake Swirled Nutella Bars

    Soft Pumpkin Cookies Recipe

    Pin
    Soft Pumpkin Cookies Recipe. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

    These soft and pillowy pumpkin cookies are a great fit for make-ahead Christmas cookies. Their delicate spice blend makes them perfect for adding a touch of warmth to your dessert spread.
    Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies Recipe

    Chocolate Almond Flour Cookies

    Pin
    Chocolate Almond Flour Cookies. Photo credit: Fit as a Mama Bear.

    With a rich chocolate flavor and nutty almond undertones, these cookies are a great addition to make-ahead Christmas cookies. They store well and pair beautifully with a warm cup of cocoa.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Almond Flour Cookies

    Chocolate S’mores Cookies

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    Chocolate S’mores Cookies. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    These cookies bring together gooey marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crisp graham crackers, making them a nostalgic pick for make-ahead Christmas cookies. They freeze well and keep their chewy texture.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate S’mores Cookies

    Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

    Pin
    Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

    Quick to prepare and full of chocolatey goodness, these no-bake cookies are a practical option for make-ahead Christmas cookies. Their chewy texture and rich flavor make them a crowd-pleaser.
    Get the Recipe: Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

    Easy Applesauce Cookies Recipe with White Chocolate Chips

    Pin
    Easy Applesauce Cookies Recipe with White Chocolate Chips. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    These soft applesauce cookies, dotted with white chocolate chips, are a wonderful addition to make-ahead Christmas cookies. They stay moist and offer a festive, fruity twist for the holiday season.
    Get the Recipe: Easy Applesauce Cookies Recipe with White Chocolate Chips

    Carrot Cake Cookies

    Pin
    Carrot Cake Cookies. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Combining the flavors of a classic carrot cake in cookie form, these treats are a great addition to make-ahead Christmas cookies. Their soft texture and cream cheese glaze make them extra special.
    Get the Recipe: Carrot Cake Cookies

    Keto Almond Crescent Cookies

    Pin
    Keto Almond Crescent Cookies. Photo credit: Low Carb No Carb.

    With a rich almond flavor and a tender crumb, these crescent cookies are perfect for make-ahead Christmas cookies. Their festive shape and easy storage make them a seasonal favorite.
    Get the Recipe: Keto Almond Crescent Cookies

    Harvest Spice Cake Mix Bars

    Pin
    Harvest Spice Cake Mix Bars. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    Combining warm spices with a soft bar texture, these are an easy addition to make-ahead Christmas cookies. They’re perfect for prepping early and enjoying throughout the season.
    Get the Recipe: Harvest Spice Cake Mix Bars

    Easy 3-Ingredient Nutella Cookies Recipe

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    Easy 3-Ingredient Nutella Cookies Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    Quick to prepare with just three ingredients, these Nutella cookies are perfect for make-ahead Christmas cookies. They hold their shape well and pack plenty of chocolate hazelnut flavor in every bite.
    Get the Recipe: Easy 3-Ingredient Nutella Cookies Recipe

    Lemon Meltaway Cookies Recipe

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    Lemon Meltaway Cookies Recipe. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    These light and buttery lemon cookies melt in your mouth and bring a bright flavor to any holiday tray. They’re a perfect choice for make-ahead Christmas cookies that stay fresh for weeks.
    Get the Recipe: Lemon Meltaway Cookies Recipe

    Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice S’mores Cookies

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    Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice S’mores Cookies. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

    Combining pumpkin spice with gooey marshmallow centers, these cookies are a creative twist on holiday baking. They’re an excellent option for make-ahead Christmas cookies that stay soft and flavorful.
    Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pumpkin Spice S’mores Cookies

    Italian Ricotta Cookies

    Pin
    Italian Ricotta Cookies. Photo credit: Upstate Ramblings.

    Soft, moist, and lightly sweetened, these cookies are a wonderful option for make-ahead Christmas cookies. Their simple glaze adds just the right festive touch to holiday trays.
    Get the Recipe: Italian Ricotta Cookies

    White Chocolate Chip Cranberry Cookies with Maple Syrup

    Pin
    White Chocolate Chip Cranberry Cookies with Maple Syrup. Photo credit: Recipes From Leftovers.

    These cookies combine tangy cranberries with sweet white chocolate chips and a touch of maple syrup. They’re a festive addition to make-ahead Christmas cookies that offer a balance of sweet and tart flavors.
    Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Chip Cranberry Cookies with Maple Syrup

    This and That Bar Recipe

    Pin
    This and That Bar Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These bars are loaded with layers of goodies, from chocolate chips to caramel, making them a great choice for make-ahead Christmas cookies. They’re quick to assemble and hold up well for gifting or serving.
    Get the Recipe: This and That Bar Recipe

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    Sarita Harbour.

    I'm Sarita. My family and I lived off the grid for 11 years in Canada's far north. If I did it, you can too.

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