25 Festive No-Bake Christmas Cookies You Can Make in Just Minutes

2022-12-02
25 Festive No-Bake Christmas Cookies You Can Make in Just Minutes

You'll love these holiday-ready no-bake cookie recipes, including peanut butter sandwich cookies, chocolate haystacks, and candy-topped crispy treats. Each of these easy Christmas cookie recipes requires just a little time and zero oven space. Many can be made ahead, freeing up your time for holiday cheer!

01 of 25

Chocolate-Coated Mint Cookies

Your favorite filled cookie has a festive new look. Dunk mint-stuffed chocolate cookie sandwiches in melted chocolate for double the goodness. Red and green sprinkles keep these chocolate no-bake cookies festive.

02 of 25

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles

These easy no-bake cookie truffles are so decadent, no one will guess there's only 30 minutes of prep! Bring these chocolate-coated treats to your next holiday gathering for a dessert that wows.

03 of 25

Dulce de Leche Pretzel Bites

Silky dulce de leche and sweet brown sugar band together to create the creamiest cookie filling ever. Shape the golden dough between chocolate-covered pretzels, then dunk each heavenly bite in vanilla coating for easy no-bake cookies that will fly off the dessert table quicker than the toy of the year flies off store shelves.

04 of 25

Copycat Musketeer Bars

These no-oven-required marshmallow-chocolate bars can be frozen for a month before the holidays. Our homemade version of your favorite candy bar is the no-bake Christmas cookie recipe that will become a new family tradition.

05 of 25

No-Bake Truffle Treats

These no-bake Christmas desserts are perfect for families of picky eaters. Our recipe includes four flavor variations so you can each snack to your heart's content: almond-cherry, pecan shortbread, peanut, and chocolate.

06 of 25

Grumpy Grinchy Marshmallow Treats

This easy no-bake dessert would make even the Grinch enjoy Christmas. Make and freeze this no-bake dessert up to three months before Santa's ETA, and don't forget to add an extra-big heart to these monster-size treats.

07 of 25

Chocolate-Raspberry Bites

This thin no-bake cookie recipe starts with purchased chocolate wafer cookies, jam, and frosting made with melted chocolate chips. The ruby-red hue of the jam is perfectly fitting for the holiday. Top with green or gold sprinkles for even more festivity.

08 of 25

Pistachio Bars

Want a cookie guests will go nuts about? These sea green bars feature three times the pistachio goodness: first in the graham cracker base, second in the pudding, and third as the topper.

09 of 25

No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bites

Every bite is bliss when it comes to these chilled no-bake peanut butter cookies. Sticky-sweet honey helps hold this dessert together, while flaky coconut provides a snowy sprinkle. Since these energy balls feature nut butter, oats, and dried fruit, we consider them nutritious enough to eat at snack time, too.

10 of 25

Chocolate-Cherry Dips

These chocolate no-bake cookies hold a sweet surprise: maraschino cherries! Blend the rosy-red fruit with lush cream cheese, then smear between two vanilla wafers. Ask the little ones to help decorate before the chocolate coating hardens.

11 of 25

Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Pretzels

Peanut butter, chocolate, and pretzels—three items never missing from our pantry! Combine them in these sweet-and-salty marvels for treats that blow store-bought peanut butter sandwich cookies out of the water.

12 of 25

Gingersnap Logs

These pretty sprinkled logs have all the flavor of traditional gingersnaps (understandably, since they're made from crushed ginger cookies) but none of the bake time. Form 'em, dunk 'em, and pop these too-easy no-bake cookies in your freezer for up to three months. They thaw beautifully when it's holiday-party go time.

13 of 25

Cracker Candy

This no-bake Christmas dessert is so simple, even the kiddos can help! Line a cookie sheet with chocolate graham crackers, then pour on warm layers of caramel and chocolate. Toasted nuts make a crunchy topper.

14 of 25

No-Bake Butterscotch Bars

Dessert bars don't get any better than this. Indulge in lush layers of chocolate frosting and smooth butterscotch pudding on a scotcheroo-like base. Try this no-bake Christmas dessert recipe for a potluck or large party—one batch makes 64 servings!

15 of 25

Cinnamon-Walnut Cracker Bars

A simple saucepan filling of butter, sugar, and walnuts gets sandwiched between purchased graham crackers for a scrumptious no-bake Christmas dessert. Don't forget a drizzle of powdered sugar icing for a snowfall-inspired finish.

16 of 25

Cranberry-Vanilla Cereal Drops

Think outside the (cereal) box! Cranberry-vanilla crunch cereal isn't just for your bowl—it's the featured ingredient in these no-bake Christmas desserts. Vanilla-coated marshmallows add soft sweetness, while macadamia nuts provide crunch.

17 of 25

Mocha Chewies

A treat with a boost? This recipe for no-bake cookies is infused with coffee for rich flavor. Top with chocolate-covered espresso beans for extra kick. Serve with a glass of milk or espresso to balance out the decadence.

18 of 25

Walnut Butter Fruit Bites

Got 20 minutes? You can have these bites ready before dinner's done. Mix together dried dates, apricots, walnuts, and cashew butter to create delicious, chewy squares.

Test Kitchen Tip: No-bake cookies provide a safe kitchen experience for beginning bakers. Invite the kids to join in the fun!

19 of 25

White Chocolate-Cranberry Crispy Treats

Your favorite crispy treats get a makeover in this kid-friendly no-bake option. Ground nutmeg, dried cranberries, and toasted chopped pecans make them sophisticated enough for adults to crave as well.

20 of 25

Yummy No-Bake Bars

Topped with a creamy layer of chocolate, these fuss-free peanut butter bars are the ideal take-along for a last-minute cookie exchange. Grab a bottle of bubbly to share and everyone will be convinced you've been planning for the event all week!

21 of 25

No-Bake Butterscotch-Pretzel Bars

Salty peanuts plus complementary butterscotch make these bars a tasty no-bake cookie recipe option. Sprinkle crushed pretzels and peanuts on top to hint at the flavors hiding below.

22 of 25

Peanut Butter Balls

While not technically a cookie, these no-bake goodies make a tasty addition to your Christmas cookie platter. It's one of our top-rated Christmas candy recipes, and many readers add crispy rice cereal for crunch—yum!

23 of 25

Frozen Coco-Coffee Bites

Better than peanut butter cups, these easy no-bake Christmas cookies feature coconut, espresso-spiked cream cheese, and toasty graham cracker crumbs. Freeze them up to a month before your holiday party.

24 of 25

No-Bake Cake Batter Puppy Chow Bars

Each bite of these chewy cereal bars is loaded with sprinkles and vanilla flavor. Make the bars up to three days before you plan to enjoy them. Just before serving, cut them into squares and sprinkle on plenty of powdered sugar.

25 of 25

Dark Chocolate Cracker Candy

Classic "Christmas crack" is topped with milk chocolate and caramel. Here we've swapped in dark chocolate, pepitas, dried apricots, and toffee bits. The results are a not-too-sweet no-bake Christmas cookie recipe that adults and kids will love.

Related Article

Crab Rangoon Roll-Ups Are So Much Better Than the Original

Crab Rangoon Roll-Ups Are So Much Better Than the Original

This crab rangoon roll-up recipe is the perfect balance of crispy tortilla shell and creamy crab filling. Serve them with your favorite sweet chili sauce.
Ricotta and Parmesan Spread

Ricotta and Parmesan Spread

Basil, oregano, and chives brighten up this rich Parmesan and ricotta cheese spread. Start your next dinner party with this easy, cheesy appetizer. Just add slices of baguette and veggies for dipping!
Pineapple-Ginger Punch

Pineapple-Ginger Punch

Pineapple-Ginger Punch might just be your new favorite summer drink. To transform the refreshing punch recipe into a cocktail, spike the fresh ginger-infused sip with rum or vodka.
Why You Should Be Eating More Pecans

Why You Should Be Eating More Pecans

Beyond their delicious taste, pecans are also packed to the brim with nutrition. Read on to find out just what makes pecans such a healthy addition to your lifestyle as well as some tasty ways to get started.
What Is Natural Flavor? Here’s What It Means on Food Labels

What Is Natural Flavor? Here’s What It Means on Food Labels

What does “natural flavors” mean when you see it on a food or drink label? A flavorist explains how your favorite strawberry drink gets that taste.
13 High-Protein Breakfast Ideas for a Morning Brain Boost

13 High-Protein Breakfast Ideas for a Morning Brain Boost

Looking for a protein-loaded breakfast? Here are our best energy packed breakfast ideas to give your morning a boost. Incorporate these recipes into your daily routine for a high protein breakfast.
How Long to Cook Steak on a Grill for Perfect Results Every Time

How Long to Cook Steak on a Grill for Perfect Results Every Time

Conquer your next cookout with tips on all you need to know about how long to cook steak on a grill, the best cuts to buy, and how to serve the steak.
How to Cook Eggplant—5 Simple Methods

How to Cook Eggplant—5 Simple Methods

If you're wondering how to cook eggplant, keep reading. On the grill, roasted, sautéed, and—yes—even in the microwave, this vegetable is as versatile as it is delicious.
How to Cook Sweet Potatoes—6 Different Methods Including Baked, Fried, and More

How to Cook Sweet Potatoes—6 Different Methods Including Baked, Fried, and More

Mash them, bake them, pressure-cook them, or turn them into fries—whatever your method, follow these steps to make perfect sweet potatoes every time.
Easy Chicken and Broccoli Recipes You'll Be Making on Repeat

Easy Chicken and Broccoli Recipes You'll Be Making on Repeat

From all-American casseroles to Korean-style suppers to Italian chicken Parm, these chicken and broccoli recipes show how that combo *can* be something you eagerly anticipate. We’ve rounded up our best healthy chicken and broccoli recipes (as well as a few more decadent options) to help remix your weeknight menu.
16 Cauliflower Recipes to Make if You're Cooking Tonight

16 Cauliflower Recipes to Make if You're Cooking Tonight

This round-up of cauliflower recipes features the versatile veggie as the star of the plate. Each of these recipes with cauliflower provides a wide array of options everyone can enjoy, any night of the week.
Snap Peas, Snow Peas, and Farro with Oranges and Citrus-Sesame Vinaigrette

Snap Peas, Snow Peas, and Farro with Oranges and Citrus-Sesame Vinaigrette

The crunchy combo of snap and snow peas complements the chewy bite of farro and contrasts the juicy orange sections.
Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole

Chilaquiles Breakfast Casserole

Try this make-ahead breakfast casserole to feed a crowd on a busy weekend. The zesty Mexican flavors will inspire everyone to come back for seconds.
Fire-Roasted Tomato and Italian Sausage Grinders

Fire-Roasted Tomato and Italian Sausage Grinders

Use canned fire-roasted tomatoes to rev up this classic Italian sausage sandwich recipe.
Gluten-Free Giant Ginger Cookies

Gluten-Free Giant Ginger Cookies

We've used a 1/4 cup of cookie dough for each of these giant, molasses-infused cookies. If you prefer smaller cookies, there's instructions for mini gluten-free ginger cookies, too.
Gluten-Free Fresh Herb Vinaigrette

Gluten-Free Fresh Herb Vinaigrette

In just 10 minutes, you can have a zesty homemade salad dressing ready. The olive oil will solidify when chilled, so let the vinaigrette stand at room temperature 1 hour before serving. Don't forget to shake it well!
Portobello Pot Roast

Portobello Pot Roast

Meaty portobellos stand in for beef in this vegetarian portobello pot roast that's as rich as the classic but cooks in a fraction of the time.
Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
How to Smoke Food Even if You Don't Have an Actual Smoker

How to Smoke Food Even if You Don't Have an Actual Smoker

Add complex flavors to your meats, seafood, grains, and veggies with our Test Kitchen tutorials on how to smoke food at home using a charcoal or gas grill.
Grilled Trout Stuffed with Lemon and Herbs

Grilled Trout Stuffed with Lemon and Herbs

This is a simple, flavorful way to grill almost any whole fish, with a 'stuffing' designed not to be eaten, but to flavor the fish from the inside out.