Learn how to bake some of the best cookies this holiday season

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) -- Cookies have become one of the most popular treats during the holiday season and of course it has everyone making a list of their favorites to either buy or make. What kind of cookie do you have to have each year?

If you are looking for an easy take on a classic cookie or want to try something new this year to change things up, here are some recipes you can try this year that will make you the talk of the house or party.

Why are cookies popular for the holidays?

Have you ever wondered why are cookies such a special part of Christmas? For one, you can make a large portion of them in one got to give and share with more people at once rather than something like a cake. There are also so many varieties including chocolate chip, sugar, gingersnaps, gingerbread, snickerdoodles, chocolate crinkle, oatmeal, M&M, peanut butter, and the list goes on. There is a type for everyone. And what is Santa’s favorite thing? Cookies! It’s a tradition to leave some cookies out when he stops by. Cookie baking is also an activity for everyone to enjoy together possibly from generation to generation.

What is the most popular Christmas cookie?

Just like candy during Halloween, Christmas has cookies and there is favorite cookie for every one including state favorites.

Some of the favorites during the holiday season include M&M cookies, peanut butter blossoms, gingerbread, Mexican wedding cake, and snickerdoodles.

Arizonans apparently like the classic sugar cookie cut out cookies, according to Betty Crocker. Californians like peanut butter blossom cookies, New Yorkers like Black & White cookies, Marylanders like Christmas Snickerdoodles, and North Carolina likes sugar cookie M&M bars.