The dough can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to two weeks. Defrost frozen dough in the refrigerator overnight, then let stand at room temperature until firm yet malleable, about 30 minutes. The cookies are refined enough to serve plain, but a dusting of sifted confectioners’ sugar or chocolate glaze is a nice touch. Baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days but should be dusted with sugar or glazed the day they are served.

You might need to buy:
  • espresso powder

24 shortbreads

You might need to buy:
  • -2 teaspoon maple extract
  • maple sugar

Note-these cookies will stay fresh for days in an air-tight container, thanks to the pudding!

serves 36
You might need to buy:
  • all-purpose Gold Medal flour
serves 22
You might need to buy:
  • fine-crystal sugar
  • Brown mini candy-coated chocolate pieces
  • chocolate wafer cookies

Drop cookies topped with cranberries, maraschino cherries or a dollop of jam, they were phenomena.

ready in about 40 minutes; serves 40
You might need to buy:
  • Green or red gel food coloring
ready in about an hour and 50 minutes; serves 6

I warmed the Nutella in the microwave for 30 seconds, gave it a stir, another 30 and then just drizzled with a fork. It will not be liquid like a ganache so work quickly – and you may have to warm again to complete the macaroons.

You might need to buy:
  • sweetened shredded coconut