2 Layer Christmas Cookies (Pillsbury Sugar Cookie)

Hold onto your Santa hats, because we’re about to make some seriously epic 2-Layer Christmas Cookies! 

These aren’t your average holiday cookies—oh no, honey. We’re talking about a decadent mashup of chocolate chip cookie dough and Pillsbury sugar cookies stacked together to create one mind-blowing treat. 

It’s like the best of both worlds came together under the mistletoe, and we’re here for it!

These cookies are all about layers, baby. 

We start with a soft, chewy layer of chocolate chip cookie dough. Then stack it with that sweet, buttery Pillsbury sugar cookie dough for a cookie experience that’s off the charts. 

It’s like the best of both worlds rolled into one delicious treat! And the best part? It’s super easy. 

We’re talking two types of store-bought dough and a baking sheet. No complicated mixing or chilling here—just stack, bake, and enjoy.

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or the holiday cookie queen, this recipe has your name all over it. Perfect for those last-minute holiday parties, cookie swaps, or even a cozy night in when you’re binge-watching holiday movies for the tenth time. 

These cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them, from your picky little cousin to the neighbor who always “just stops by” during cookie time. 

So, grab that dough and get ready to bake up the easiest, chewiest, most decked-out cookies of the season!

If you love Christmas cookies you may also enjoy my Gluten-Free Chocolate Peppermint Cookies or my Chocolate Crinkle Cookies.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THESE 2 LAYER CHRISTMAS COOKIES

• Double the Fun: You’re getting two delicious cookies in one bite. It’s the best of both worlds—no more having to choose between chocolate chip and sugar cookies!
• Super Easy to Make: With pre-made dough, these cookies come together faster than Santa can slide down the chimney. Perfect for when you need a last-minute holiday treat.
• Instant Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are a guaranteed hit at any holiday party, cookie swap, or even your Christmas morning breakfast (no judgment here). Just be prepared for people to beg for the recipe.
• Totally Customizable: Want to mix it up? Add crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, or drizzle melted chocolate over the top. Go wild with your holiday spirit!

SIMPLE INGREDIENTS YOU NEED FOR THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS COOKIE

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make these warm cookies (the exact measurements, nutritional information and full recipe are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

• Chocolate chip cookie dough (make your own or grab a store-bought version—no judgment here)
• Pillsbury sugar cookie dough (because, honestly, Pillsbury never fails)
• Optional – festive sprinkles, extra chocolate chips, red and green m&m’s, green food coloring, red food coloring, etc.

HOW TO MAKE THE 2 LAYER CHRISTMAS COOKIE RECIPE

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Shape the Chocolate Chip Dough: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop the chocolate chip cookie dough into balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
3. Partially Bake: Pop the chocolate chip cookie dough balls into the preheated oven and bake for 4-5 minutes. They should be slightly puffed but not fully set.
4. Press Sugar Cookie Dough into the Chocolate Chip Layer: Remove the chocolate chip cookies from the oven. Quickly place a sugar cookie disc on top of each partially baked chocolate chip cookie, pressing gently so it sticks but doesn’t flatten completely.
5. Finish Baking: Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue to bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the sugar cookie tops are just set.
6. Cool & Decorate: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely. For a festive touch, sprinkle with red and green M&Ms or holiday sprinkles while they’re still warm.

STORING LEFTOVER CHRISTMAS COOKIES

To store leftover 2-Layer Christmas Cookies, place them in an airtight container lined with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days. 

Could also use plastic wrap to wrap up the cookies individually if using them for cookie exchanges.

For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temp when you’re ready for a sweet holiday snack!

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR BEST RESULTS

• Pre-Bake the Chocolate Chip Layer: Pre-baking the chocolate chip cookie dough for 4-5 minutes gives it a head start and ensures both cookie layers bake evenly. This step is key for getting that perfect, two-layer texture!
• Don’t Press Too Hard: When adding the sugar cookie layer, gently press the dough onto the partially baked chocolate chip cookie. You want them to combine but not flatten completely.
• Use Cold Sugar Cookie Dough: Keep the Pillsbury sugar cookie dough chilled until you’re ready to use it. This helps the sugar cookie layer maintain its shape during baking.
• Watch the Baking Time: Since oven temperatures can vary, keep an eye on the cookies during the final 10-13 minutes of baking. The edges should be golden brown, while the centers stay slightly soft for a chewy finish.
• Cool on the Baking Sheet: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps set the layers and keeps the cookies from breaking apart.
• Add Extra Sprinkles While Warm: For festive flair, add extra M&Ms or holiday sprinkles while the cookies are still warm. They’ll stick better and give your cookies that festive look.
• Go Big or Go Home: Don’t be afraid to make the cookie dough balls a little larger for extra thick cookies! Just be sure to add a minute or two to the baking time for the best results.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. It also helps the cookies bake more evenly.

FAQS

CAN I MAKE HOMEMADE COOKIE DOUGH INSTEAD OF USING STORE-BOUGHT?

Yes, you can absolutely use homemade cookie dough for this recipe! If you want to make it extra special, whip up your own chocolate chip cookie dough and sugar cookie dough from scratch. Here’s how:

1. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough: Use your favorite homemade recipe using flour, brown sugar, egg yolks or egg whites, etc. Just be sure it’s thick enough to hold up as the base layer. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
2. Sugar Cookie Dough: Make a classic sugar cookie dough using simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, vanilla, large eggs, almond extract or almond paste. Just be sure it’s chilled so it’s easier to press onto the chocolate chip layer.

WHAT TYPE OF PAN SHOULD I USE FOR BAKING THESE COOKIES?

A sheet pan, cookie sheet or baking dish works well for these cookies. Line it with parchment paper or grease it with cooking spray to ensure easy removal.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO SERVE THESE COOKIES?

Serve them at room temperature during the holiday season for the best flavor and texture. They’re perfect for Christmas cookie platters, holiday parties, or even as a colorful treat for Christmas time.

WHAT TYPE OF KITCHEN TOOLS DO I NEED TO MAKE THESE 2 LAYER CHRISTMAS COOKIES?

• Large Bowl or Medium Bowl: For mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them into one glorious dough.
• Hand Mixer or Bowl of a Stand Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar together until fluffy. If you’re feeling strong, you can use a whisk and spatula, but an electric mixer makes it a lot easier to mix at medium-high speed or even medium speed.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out your ingredients precisely. Cookies are all about the right ratios!
• Prepared baking pans: To line up and bake your cookie dough balls for that golden-brown perfection.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: To prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet and for easy clean-up.
• Cookie Scoop or Spoon: For portioning the dough evenly, making sure each cookie is the same size (no cookie left behind!).
• Wire Cooling Rack: For letting the baked cookies cool evenly after they come out of the oven.

WHY DID MY COOKIES SPREAD TOO MUCH?

Cookies often spread too much if the butter is too warm or the dough isn’t chilled before baking. Try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

HOW LONG DO I NEED TO LET THE COOKIES COOL ON BAKING SHEET?

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 2-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack. This helps set their structure and prevents breakage.

Other Christmas Treats You May Enjoy Over This Time Of Year!

• No Bake Peanut Butter Balls (5 Ingredients)
• 30 Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes With Few Ingredients
• Christmas Chocolate Peppermint Truffles
• Heart Shaped Jam Thumbprint Cookies
• Gluten Free Dairy Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Sugar Free Sugar Cookies
• Brown Butter Homemade Rice Krispie Treats
• Santa Rice Krispie Treats
• Reindeer Cake Pops Recipe
• Easy Peanut Butter Marshmallow Squares
• Christmas Trees Gluten-Free Brownies
• Chocolate Covered Pretzel Wreaths
• Oreo Cookie Christmas Ornaments
• Peanut Butter Butterscotch Cookies
• Chocolate Caramel Shortbread Bars

IF YOU TRIED THESE SUGAR COOKIE CHRISTMAS TREES PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS EASY RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails