Digest

This podcast episode dives into the annual "Cookie Week," featuring insights from baking experts Christina Tozzi, Melissa Clark, and Vaughn Vreeland. They explore creative cookie themes like "But Make It a Cookie," debate the classification of brownies, and share unique recipes such as Vietnamese coffee brownies and popcorn bucket cookies. The discussion also covers holiday entertaining, including make-ahead meals, batch cocktails, and non-traditional party favors. Practical advice is offered on cookie freshness, freezing, and gluten-free baking, with a special mention of a gluten-free chocolate chip cookie recipe. The episode concludes with engaging holiday-themed games centered around food in movies and songs, and a farewell from the hosts.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction, Sponsorships, and Cookie Week Origins

The podcast kicks off with a McCormick sponsorship and an introduction to Christina Tozzi of Milk Bar. Host Gilbert Cruz welcomes guests Melissa Clark and Vaughn Vreeland, introducing the concept of "Cookie Week," which began in 2020 as a virtual cookie exchange and has since become a significant part of The New York Times' holiday coverage.

00:03:35

The Role of the Emcee and This Year's Cookie Theme

Vaughn Vreeland details his role as the "emcee" of Cookie Week, managing planning and event coordination. The theme for the current year, "But Make It a Cookie," is revealed, encouraging the transformation of flavors from drinks and desserts into cookie form.

00:05:38

The Great Brownie Debate and Unique Cookie Creations

A lively debate ensues about whether brownies qualify as cookies. Guests share their unique cookie creations, including Melissa Clark's Vietnamese coffee brownie and Vaughn Vreeland's popcorn bucket cookie, alongside other innovative ideas like mortadella cookies and coconut cake snowballs.

00:12:10

Beverage-Inspired Cookies, Gluten-Free Baking, and Reader Questions Introduction

The discussion touches on beverage-inspired cookies and past favorites, including a gluten-free chocolate chip cookie recipe that impresses host Gilbert Cruz, who shares his celiac condition. A break is announced before addressing reader questions on holiday baking and entertaining.

00:16:40

Holiday Collaborations and Energy's Role in Modern Issues

Christina Tosi returns to announce a holiday collaboration between McCormick and Milk Bar, featuring an eggnog English toffee cookie recipe. Ivan Penn briefly discusses the importance of electricity in current events.

00:18:05

Reader Questions: Baking, Savory Treats, and Storage

Reader questions cover versatile cookie doughs, savory alternatives for holiday treats (like cheese straws and spiced nuts), extending cookie freshness, and the best methods for freezing cookies.

00:25:45

Reader Questions: Holiday Drinks, Main Courses, and Party Favors

The focus shifts to holiday entertaining, with questions about sophisticated non-alcoholic drink bases, alternative main courses beyond turkey and ham (like braised lamb shanks), and creative, conversation-sparking party favors.

00:32:57

Holiday Meal Plans and Food-Themed Games

Guests share their holiday meal plans, including Osso Buco and beef Wellington. The podcast concludes with three rounds of holiday-themed games: identifying food in movies, food references in Christmas songs, and a "Cookie or Not a Cookie?" challenge.

Keywords

Q&A

• What is the theme for this year's Cookie Week?

  This year's theme is "But Make It a Cookie," which focuses on transforming popular flavors from drinks and other desserts into creative cookie recipes, encouraging innovative flavor combinations.

• Is a brownie considered a cookie?

  This is a debated topic. Melissa Clark argues that brownies should be included in cookie assortments for versatility, especially in cookie boxes, while the definition remains a point of discussion.

• What are some savory alternatives to cookies for holiday treats?

  Savory options include cheese straws (perhaps with added cayenne), pimento cheese, and spiced nuts. These offer a different flavor profile and can be appealing to those who prefer non-sweet treats.

• How can I ensure cookies stay fresh longer?

  Store cookies in an airtight container. Factors like fat content, oats, and ingredients like cream of tartar can affect longevity. Softer, chewier cookies and shortbreads tend to keep well.

• What is the best way to freeze cookies for later?

  Freeze cookies in airtight containers with layers of parchment paper between them. Ensure cookies are flat and not overlapping. Most cookies, except meringues, freeze well for at least a month.

• What are some sophisticated holiday drink bases that can be served with or without alcohol?

  Spiced apple cider with added spices and citrus, or a simple syrup infused with aromatics like rosemary and lemon zest, can serve as versatile bases for punches and mocktails.

• What is a good main course meat for a holiday meal that is not ham or turkey and is not easily overcooked or expensive?

  Braised dishes like lamb shanks or short ribs are recommended. They can be made ahead, are festive, less expensive than prime rib, and difficult to overcook, as they become tender with slow cooking.

• What are some non-traditional party favors that can spark conversation at a dinner table?

  Consider placing daily horoscopes for each guest, or writing down conversation starter questions on festive paper for guests to answer throughout the meal, encouraging interaction and sharing.

Show Notes