10 Incredible Cookie Recipes Perfect for Leaving Out for Santa

It's the most wonderful time of the year, and that means it's time to get baking! If you're looking for the perfect cookies to leave out for Santa this Christmas, look no further. We've rounded up 10 incredible cookie recipes that are sure to delight the big guy in the red suit.

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

No Christmas cookie platter is complete without a batch of classic chocolate chip cookies. This recipe yields soft, chewy cookies loaded with melty chocolate chips. The secret is using a combination of brown and white sugar, which gives the cookies a rich, caramelized flavor. Be sure to let the dough chill for at least 24 hours before baking for the best texture.

Peppermint Mocha Cookies

For a festive twist on a holiday favorite, try these peppermint mocha cookies. They're made with a rich cocoa base, espresso powder, and crushed peppermint candies. The result is a decadent, fudgy cookie that's perfect for dunking in a mug of hot chocolate.

Gingerbread Cookies

No Christmas cookie platter is complete without a batch of classic gingerbread cookies. This recipe yields soft, chewy cookies with a warm, spicy flavor. The key is to use a combination of molasses, brown sugar, and a blend of fragrant spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

Peanut Butter Blossoms

These classic peanut butter cookies with a Hershey's Kiss in the center are a holiday staple. The combination of rich peanut butter and creamy chocolate is simply irresistible. Plus, they're easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Snowball Cookies

Also known as Russian tea cakes or Mexican wedding cookies, these delicate, buttery cookies are coated in a generous dusting of powdered sugar, giving them a festive, snowy appearance. They're the perfect bite-sized treat to leave out for Santa.

Thumbprint Cookies

These buttery shortbread cookies are filled with a dollop of your favorite jam or preserves. They're easy to make and endlessly customizable - try using different flavors of jam or even a chocolate ganache filling.

Cranberry Orange Cookies

For a pop of holiday color and flavor, try these cranberry orange cookies. They're made with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a hint of cinnamon. The tart cranberries and bright citrus notes make these cookies a delightful addition to any Christmas cookie platter.

Salted Caramel Snickerdoodles

Take the classic snickerdoodle to new heights with a salted caramel twist. These cookies are soft and chewy, with a sweet caramel filling and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top. They're sure to be a hit with Santa and the whole family.

Spritz Cookies

These delicate, buttery cookies are traditionally shaped using a cookie press, but you can also pipe or spoon the dough onto the baking sheet. Decorate them with sprinkles, colored sugar, or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a festive touch.

Linzer Cookies

These beautiful, jam-filled cookies are a classic European holiday treat. The nutty, crumbly dough is sandwiched with a tart fruit preserve, often raspberry or blackberry. They're a stunning addition to any Christmas cookie platter.

No matter which of these incredible cookie recipes you choose to make, Santa is sure to be delighted. Happy baking, and Merry Christmas!