HOLIDAY COOKIES There's so much to love about holiday cookies, from baking and decorating to sharing and savoring. In the spirit of the season, stir up a batch of rum balls, pfeffernusse, sugar cookies or another one of these other classic confections and make someone's day just a l'il bit brighter.
SUGAR COOKIES A spoonful of sugar makes for a simply scrumptious cookie. Keep 'em simple, or add a dash of holiday dazzle. Just remember that adding any colored sugar before they hit the heat helps your decorations stay in place.
LEBKUCHEN This centuries-old German confection is a close kin to gingerbread, but gets a sweet flavor boost from chopped citron, almonds and ornate icing.
SNICKERDOODLES It's almost as much fun to say the name as it is to eat these little cinnamon-kissed nibbles -- and they're oh-so-simple to make with kids.
RUM BALLS Okay, you'll probably want the kids to steer clear of these potent, spirit-soaked globes, but betcha the grown-ups will all come running. Hint: Sub in alcohol-free rum extract for a family-friendly version.
GINGERBREAD 'Tis the spice of the season. Whether you're building a house, making sweet l'il men or plain ol' rounds, the sweep snap of ginger says it's holiday time.
BROWNIES Give these a lick of mint, stick with classic fudge, or mix it up with nuts. No matter how you slice 'em, you'll be the shining star of someone's holiday.