This book is a cookbook on how to make incredible cookies. Letters, stars, squares, heart shaped, ice cream come shapes and more. (types of cookies Bar cookies, Drop cookies, Rolled and cut cookies, simple cookies. Flavors chunk cookies, mixed nut turtles, pecan crispies . and many more types of delicious cookies.
I bought this pretty cookie cookbook for a whole $.50 at a used bookstore, and it was money well spent. Over the last two+ months, I've made all but 3 recipes. The 3 I didn't make contained ingredients we don't like. Of all the others I made, only 1 wasn't a do over - the Forget 'Ems. Good flavor but long finish time and just OK texture make it a non-repeat. But every single other cookie that I made was great.
The cookbook is divided into 4 sections - cut outs, drop, shaped, quick/easy. Each section contains well written recipes with additional information for serving, packing, or gifting. The frosting recipes are especially good in the cut out section along with specific cookie recipes to try out the different techniques. The shortbread and sugar cookie recipes were true standouts. Great standards but many of the recipes took that basic recipe and built on it. I even made additional batches experimenting with my own additions. Such great basics! Our absolute favorite was the lemon rosemary shortbreads. This slightly savory cookie is perfect for wine tasting. Most recipes have an accompanying photo but not all.
I wish the cover was showing as it is beautiful and inviting. This succinct but delicious cookie cookbook would make a beautiful gift, especially for a beginning baker or wedding shower along with some simple baking tools.
Southern Living Incredible Cookies is a charming and reliable cookbook that brings the warmth of Southern baking to your kitchen with a focus on delightful cookie recipes. Published by Southern Living Inc., this 112-page paperback is packed with a variety of cookie recipes, from classic cutouts to drop cookies, shaped treats, and quick-and-easy options, making it a versatile choice for bakers of all skill levels.What I Liked:Diverse Recipes: The book offers a wide range of cookie types, including bar cookies, rolled and cut cookies (like stars and hearts), drop cookies, and simple bakes. Standout recipes include the Classic Sugar Cookie with glaze, perfect for decorating, and unique offerings like Lemon Rosemary Shortbreads, which add a slightly savory twist ideal for pairing with tea or wine.
Clear Instructions: The recipes are well-written, with explicit instructions that are easy to follow, making it accessible for beginners and a joy for seasoned bakers. The inclusion of a cookie primer provides helpful tips on measuring, rolling, cutting, baking, and decorating, ensuring consistent results.
Southern Charm: True to Southern Living’s reputation, the recipes incorporate regional flavors and traditions, such as pecan crispies and mixed nut turtles, adding a distinct Southern flair that elevates the cookie-baking experience.
Visual Appeal: Many recipes are accompanied by mouthwatering photos, though not all, which inspire creativity and help visualize the final product. The book’s inviting design makes it a great gift for bakers or as a wedding shower present alongside baking tools.
Reliability: Reviewers praise the book for its dependable recipes, with many noting that favorites like the sugar cookie and brownie cookies are crowd-pleasers that turn out well every time. The book’s longevity is evident, as some users have relied on it for years, even purchasing multiple copies as gifts.
What Could Be Better:Limited Photos: While the book includes beautiful images, not every recipe has a corresponding photo, which can be disappointing for those who rely on visual inspiration, especially for desserts. Some users felt this made the book less engaging compared to online resources where photos are abundant.
Recipe Originality: A few reviewers noted that some recipes feel basic or similar to those found in standard cookbooks or on the Southern Living website, which might underwhelm adventurous bakers looking for more innovative ideas.
Mixed Results: While most recipes are hits, a couple, like the “Forget ‘Ems” and Rosemary Shortbread Cookies, received criticism for lackluster texture or flavor, suggesting some inconsistency in the collection.
Overall: Southern Living Incredible Cookies is a solid addition to any baker’s collection, particularly for those who love classic, Southern-inspired cookies with straightforward instructions. Its focus on accessible ingredients and techniques makes it ideal for beginners, while the variety offers enough for experienced bakers to enjoy. The lack of photos for every recipe and occasional unremarkable recipes slightly dim its shine, but the book’s charm and reliability make it a worthwhile purchase. I’d rate it 4 out of 5 stars for its dependable recipes and Southern flair.Recommendation: Perfect for home bakers who enjoy classic cookies with a Southern twist or those looking for a thoughtful gift for a baking enthusiast. If you’re seeking highly creative recipes or comprehensive visuals, you might want to pair this with another cookbook or check Southern Living’s website for additional inspiration.
Some recipes are easy to follow and come out well, others, are not as tasty as I expected. Recipes I recommend: Quick Chocolate Cookies Brown Sugar Short Bread Old Fashioned Tea Cakes