18 Scrumptious Thanksgiving Cookies to Savor This Holiday Season

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, indulging in delicious treats. While pies often steal the spotlight, there’s another category of Thanksgiving dessert that deserves your attention this holiday season: Thanksgiving cookies! These bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing, easy to make, and can be customized to suit any palate. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, Thanksgiving cookies are a fantastic way to add a sweet touch to your celebration.

In this blog post, I’ve put together a list of 18 delectable Thanksgiving cookie recipes that will bring warmth and joy to your holiday table. From classic flavors like pumpkin spice and cranberry to more adventurous combinations, there’s something here for everyone. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a storm with these irresistible Thanksgiving cookies that are sure to become a new holiday tradition.

Make sure you also take a look at some of my other Thanksgiving recipes too:

• Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas
• Thanksgiving Breakfast Recipes
• Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas
• Thanksgiving Pie Recipes
• Thanksgiving Side Dishes
• Thanksgiving Ham Recipes
• Thanksgiving Cupcakes
• Thanksgiving Cocktails
• Thanksgiving Mocktails
• Thanksgiving Starters
• Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes

18 Thanksgiving Cookie Recipes

1. Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Pumpkin Spice Cookies are a delicious treat that encapsulates the flavors of fall. These soft and chewy cookies are infused with warm spices and pumpkin puree, making them perfect for a Thanksgiving dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips or nuts.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Cranberry Orange Cookies

Cranberry Orange Cookies are a refreshing and tangy treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty flavor of orange. These cookies are perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your Thanksgiving dessert table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, orange zest, and orange juice until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the dried cranberries and, if using, white chocolate chips.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Sweet Potato Pecan Cookies

Sweet Potato Pecan Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional Thanksgiving flavors. These cookies combine the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty crunch of pecans, creating a soft and flavorful treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 large sweet potato)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the mashed sweet potatoes, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Maple Bacon Cookies

Maple Bacon Cookies offer a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. The rich taste of maple syrup pairs perfectly with crispy bacon bits, making these cookies an unforgettable addition to your Thanksgiving dessert spread.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 8 slices)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the crumbled bacon and, if using, chopped walnuts.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Apple Cider Caramel Cookies

Apple Cider Caramel Cookies are a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors. These cookies combine the taste of apple cider with gooey caramel centers, creating a perfect fall treat for your Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup apple cider (reduced to 1/4 cup)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 15-20 soft caramel candies, unwrapped and halved

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to 1/4 cup. Let it cool.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg, reduced apple cider, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and wrap each portion around a halved caramel candy, ensuring the caramel is fully enclosed.
8. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Chai Spice Cookies

Chai Spice Cookies are aromatic and flavorful, inspired by the traditional Indian chai tea blend. These cookies are infused with a mix of warm spices, creating a cozy and exotic treat perfect for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, allspice, black pepper, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped crystallized ginger.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Brown Butter Sage Cookies

Brown Butter Sage Cookies are a sophisticated and savory-sweet treat. The nutty flavor of browned butter combined with aromatic sage creates a unique and elegant cookie perfect for a Thanksgiving feast.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage leaves
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine the browned butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until well combined.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped sage and, if using, walnuts.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Sweet Corn Cookies

Sweet Corn Cookies are a delightful and unexpected treat that brings the natural sweetness of corn into a delicious cookie form. These cookies have a tender texture and a unique flavor that’s perfect for a Thanksgiving celebration.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup freeze-dried corn, finely ground (or corn flour)
• Optional: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground freeze-dried corn.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the white chocolate chips.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Sweet Potato Marshmallow Cookies

Sweet Potato Marshmallow Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sweet potato casserole. These cookies feature the comforting flavors of sweet potatoes and marshmallows, making them a perfect treat for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 large sweet potato)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mini marshmallows

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the mashed sweet potatoes, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the mini marshmallows.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Rosemary Lemon Shortbread Cookies

Rosemary Lemon Shortbread Cookies are a sophisticated and aromatic treat. The combination of fresh rosemary and zesty lemon creates a delightful balance of flavors in these buttery shortbread cookies, making them a unique addition to your Thanksgiving dessert spread.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup granulated sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the lemon zest and chopped rosemary until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Roll the dough into a log shape, about 2 inches in diameter, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
7. Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
8. If desired, sprinkle the tops of the cookies with granulated sugar.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Pecan Pie Cookies

Pecan Pie Cookies are a delightful miniature version of the classic Thanksgiving dessert. These cookies feature a buttery base topped with a sweet, gooey pecan filling, making them a perfect bite-sized treat.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your thumb to create a small indentation.
7. In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
8. Spoon a small amount of the pecan mixture into the center of each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

12. Spiced Pear Cookies

Spiced Pear Cookies are a delicious and fragrant treat that features the sweet and juicy flavor of pears combined with warm spices. These cookies are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving dessert table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped fresh pears (about 1 large pear)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the finely chopped pears and, if using, chopped walnuts or pecans.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

13. Butternut Squash Cookies

Butternut Squash Cookies are a unique and delicious way to incorporate a favorite fall vegetable into your desserts. These cookies are soft and flavorful, with a hint of warm spices that make them perfect for Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed butternut squash (roasted and pureed)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1 cup white chocolate chips or dried cranberries

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the mashed butternut squash, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the white chocolate chips or dried cranberries.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

14. Cardamom Pistachio Cookies

Cardamom Pistachio Cookies are a delightful combination of aromatic cardamom and crunchy pistachios. These cookies are both exotic and comforting, making them a unique addition to your Thanksgiving dessert spread.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
• Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped candied ginger

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped pistachios and, if using, chopped candied ginger.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

15. Ginger Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies

Ginger Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful blend of chewy oats, spicy ginger, and tart cranberries. These cookies are packed with flavor and texture, making them a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ground ginger, cloves, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the oats, dried cranberries, and crystallized ginger.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

16. Sage Cheddar Shortbread Cookies

Sage Cheddar Shortbread Cookies are a savory twist on traditional shortbread. These cookies combine the sharpness of cheddar cheese with the earthy flavor of fresh sage, making them a unique and sophisticated treat for your Thanksgiving spread.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated
• 2 tablespoons fresh sage, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped sage.
6. Roll the dough into a log shape, about 2 inches in diameter, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
7. Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

17. Sweet Potato Pie Cookies

Sweet Potato Pie Cookies capture the essence of a classic sweet potato pie in a convenient, bite-sized form. These cookies are soft, spiced, and topped with a sweet marshmallow glaze, making them a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving dessert table.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes (about 1 large sweet potato)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Marshmallow Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 cup mini marshmallows, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the mashed sweet potatoes, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. To make the glaze, melt the mini marshmallows in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Combine the melted marshmallows with the powdered sugar and milk, stirring until smooth.
9. Drizzle the marshmallow glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

18. Spiced Apple Cider Cookies

Spiced Apple Cider Cookies are a warm and cozy treat that brings the flavors of spiced apple cider into a delicious cookie form. These cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cider on a crisp fall day.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup apple cider (reduced from 1/2 cup)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely chopped dried apples

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to 1/4 cup. Let it cool.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg, reduced apple cider, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped dried apples.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

As the Thanksgiving festivities wind down and the last of the turkey leftovers are packed away, don’t forget to savor the sweet moments shared over these delightful cookies. These 18 Thanksgiving cookie recipes are not just desserts; they are a celebration of flavors and traditions that bring loved ones together. They are the perfect ending to a day filled with gratitude and joy.

I hope these recipes inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and perhaps even start new traditions of your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy. So, as you sip on that last cup of coffee or tea, take a moment to relish the sweet success of your baking endeavors. Here’s to a Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and plenty of delicious cookies to go around!

I also have some Valentine’s Day Cookie Recipes here.