Published December 9, 2024
BY NICOLE MIRSKI
Whether it’s because of the fond memories of baking them every year or simply because of their sweet taste, cookies have become a staple of the holidays. Local bakeries continue to try and capture these flavors every year, gearing up for the craze that is the Christmas and holiday season.
(photo by NICOLE MIRSKI)
Sweet Reba’s Oatmeal and Cranberry
Sweet Reba’s oatmeal and cranberry cookie perfectly blends the flavors of the holiday while providing a subtle look for the perfect holiday treat. The sweetness of the caramelized sugar is perfectly contradicted by the sourness of the cranberry, similarly to a raisin in a bagel. The differing textures of softness while not falling apart, and the occasional crunch provides the ultimate snack for the holidays.
(photo by NICOLE MIRSKI)
Cafe Carmel’s Gingerbread
The gingerbread cookie from Cafe Carmel is cute and classic, while still being a festive option. With a texture perfect for people who enjoy crunchier cookies, this dessert seems like it would be pictured in a Hallmark Christmas film. The tasteful icing gives a needed sweetness to this gingerbread cookie. With good flavors and a cute design, this cookie comes highly recommended.
(photo by NICOLE MIRSKI)
Carmel Bakery’s Gingerbread Man
Their gingerbread man cookie is filled with the spices of the holiday and is decorated as such. For anyone looking for an obviously festive cookie, this is the best choice for you. It’s sweet, but still reminiscent of the smells of gingerbread in the oven. The cookie has a good texture that’s not too dense, but still filling, and the hard sugar and cinnamon give a slightly spicy crunch that some may enjoy. Overall, Carmel Bakery created a great and festive cookie for the holidays.
(photo by NICOLE MIRSKI)
Parker-Lusseau’s Hazelnut Cocoa-Nib
Coming in a bag of six mini cookies, these hazelnut cocoa-nib bites are reminiscent of brownie brittle. With a harder consistency and small size, these are perfect for traveling or going on the annual Christmas morning hike. They taste more savory than sweet, with a nutty sense of hazelnut and dark chocolate. A little bitter, this pastry emphasizes the duality of holiday treats.
(photo by NICOLE MIRSKI)
Rise + Roam’s Hazelnut Chocolate Chip
This treat may look unassuming, but it’s packing bountiful flavors of hazelnut and even traces of ginger. The chocolate is melted into the cookie itself, giving it a sweet but not overpowering sugary taste. The crystallized sugar covering half the dessert not only gives it a pretty look but also adds a crunchy texture to the otherwise soft base.
