11 Midwest Heartland Christmas Cookie Recipes From America’s Breadbasket

Classic Midwest Gingerbread Cookies

Classic Midwest gingerbread cookies are a delightful holiday treat loved by families across the Midwest. These cookies are characterized by their warm spices, rich molasses flavor, and sturdy texture that makes them perfect for decorating. They can be shaped into festive forms and adorned with colorful icing, making them a fun and delicious addition to any Christmas cookie platter.

Cooking Steps

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 3 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat 3/4 cup of unsalted butter (softened) with 1 cup of packed brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Molasses: Add 1 large egg, 1/2 cup of light molasses, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
6. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. This will make it easier to roll out.
7. Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, remove one portion of dough from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the cut-out cookies on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Decorate: Once cooled, you can decorate your gingerbread cookies with icing and sprinkles as desired. Decorate creatively or leave them plain for a classic look.
10. Store or Serve: Enjoy your gingerbread cookies right away or store them in an airtight container for up to a week. They also make great gifts or additions to holiday cookie trays!

Happy baking!

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Snickerdoodle Delights From the Heartland

Snickerdoodles are a classic cookie known for their soft, chewy texture and the delightful combination of cinnamon and sugar. Originating in New England, these treats have become a beloved holiday favorite in the Midwest. Their signature crinkled tops and the warm flavor of cinnamon make them a perfect addition to any Christmas cookie platter, bringing comfort and joy to all who enjoy them.

Cooking Steps

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them to guarantee the cookies don’t stick.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of cream of tartar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can be done using a hand mixer or a stand mixer.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of ground cinnamon and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. This will be used for rolling the cookies.
7. Shape the Cookies: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form balls of dough (about 1 inch in diameter). Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the coated cookie balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly crinkled.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy: Once cooled, your delicious Snickerdoodle Delights are ready to be enjoyed with a glass of milk or shared with family and friends during the festive season!

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Buckeye Cookies: A Sweet Taste of Ohio

Buckeye cookies are a delightful blend of chocolate and peanut butter, reminiscent of the iconic Ohio buckeye candy. These cookies feature a rich, creamy peanut butter center dipped in a glossy layer of chocolate, making them a beloved treat during the holiday season. Their combination of flavors and textures is sure to please any cookie lover, bringing a taste of Ohio to your Christmas cookie platter.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
2. Cream the Butters and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Beat them together on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Peanut Butter and Eggs: Mix in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter to the butter-sugar mixture until blended. Then, add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until everything is fully combined.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Shape the Cookie Dough: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into balls that are about 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; that’s okay as they will set while cooling.
7. Cool the Cookies: Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Chocolate Coating: While the cookies are cooling, melt 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
9. Dip the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, dip the top half of each cookie into the chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. For a more authentic look, leave a small portion of the peanut butter filling exposed.
10. Set the Chocolate: Place the dipped cookies back on the wire rack or parchment paper to allow the chocolate to set. Once the chocolate has hardened, your Buckeye cookies are ready to be enjoyed!

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Cherry Almond Biscotti: A Festive Twist

Cherry Almond Biscotti are a delightful holiday treat that combines the sweet and tart flavors of dried cherries with the nutty taste of almonds. These twice-baked Italian cookies are perfect for dunking into coffee or tea, making them a festive addition to any Christmas cookie spread. Their crunchy texture and fruity essence capture the joy of the season, inviting all to savor each bite.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk together until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat 3 large eggs with a fork until thoroughly mixed. Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract and stir to combine.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Add Mix-Ins: Fold in 1 cup of chopped dried cherries and 1 cup of sliced almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Shape the Dough: Divide the dough in half. With floured hands, shape each half into a log about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
7. First Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the logs are golden and firm to the touch. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
8. Slice the Logs: Using a serrated knife, carefully slice each log diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Arrange the slices cut-side down on the baking sheet.
9. Second Bake: Return the sliced biscotti to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crisp. Turn off the oven and allow the biscotti to cool completely inside the oven with the door slightly ajar.
10. Cool and Store: Once cooled, transfer the biscotti to an airtight container. They can be enjoyed right away or stored for several weeks, making them a perfect holiday treat to share with family and friends.

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Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies

Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies are a classic holiday treat known for their tender, buttery texture and sweet vanilla flavor. These cookies are often topped with a rich, creamy frosting that adds a delightful sweetness, making them a favorite at Christmas gatherings. Perfect for decorating with festive sprinkles or simply enjoying plain, these cookies embody the spirit of the season and are sure to bring joy to family and friends alike.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Scoop and Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each scoop slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
7. Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The centers should still look slightly soft.
8. Cool Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Prepare Frosting: In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, and additional vanilla extract if desired, until smooth. If using, add food coloring to achieve your desired hue.
10. Frost Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a knife or piping bag to spread or pipe the frosting onto the cookies.
11. Decorate: Sprinkle with festive sprinkles if desired, allowing the frosting to set for a bit before serving or storing.

Enjoy your Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies as a festive treat this holiday season!

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Holiday Spritz Cookies With Festive Flair

Holiday Spritz Cookies are a delightful, buttery cookie that’s perfect for festive occasions. These elegant little treats are often shaped using a cookie press or pastry bag, allowing for creative designs that can be adorned with colorful sprinkles or festive icing. Their light texture and rich flavor make them a classic addition to any holiday cookie platter, bringing a touch of cheer and whimsy to holiday celebrations.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add Egg and Extracts: Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract to the bowl. Mix until fully combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Prepare Cookie Press: If using a cookie press, fill it with the cookie dough according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you do not have a cookie press, you can use a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
7. Pipe Cookies: Pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making various shapes such as spirals, flowers, or trees. Space them about 1-2 inches apart.
8. Add Sprinkles: Before baking, add sprinkles on top of each cookie for a festive touch.
9. Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are set and just starting to turn golden around the edges.
10. Cool Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely before serving or storing.

Enjoy your beautifully crafted Holiday Spritz Cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones!

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Maple Pecan Cookies: A Taste of Fall

Maple Pecan Cookies are a delicious treat that captures the essence of fall with their rich maple flavor and crunchy pecans. These cookies are not only perfect for holiday gatherings but also make for a comforting snack enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. Their delightful sweetness is complemented by the nutty aroma of pecans, making each bite a true indulgence.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in 1/2 cup of maple syrup, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until all ingredients are fully combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
7. Scoop Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Sprinkle Maple Sugar: If desired, sprinkle a little maple sugar on top of each cookie for added flavor and a sweet crunch.
9. Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are set.
10. Cool Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Maple Pecan Cookies!

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Kolaczki: Traditional Polish Pastry Treats

Kolaczki are delightful traditional Polish pastries that are commonly filled with fruit preserves, cheese, or nut fillings. These sweet treats are perfect for holiday celebrations and are often enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Their flaky pastry shell and scrumptious filling make them a beloved favorite among many.

Cooking Steps

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cold unsalted butter (cut into small pieces), 8 oz of cold cream cheese, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the dough resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Form the Dough: Add in 2 large egg yolks and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing it to chill and firm up.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Cut the Dough: Use a sharp knife or a biscuit cutter to cut the dough into squares or circles, approximately 2-3 inches in size.
5. Add Filling: Place a teaspoon of your choice of fruit preserves in the center of each square or circle. Fold the corners of the dough over the filling towards the center, or fold in half for a crescent shape, pinching the edges to seal.
6. Bake the Kolaczki: Transfer the filled pastries to the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden.
7. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the kolaczki from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
8. Serve and Enjoy: These delectable kolaczki can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container for several days. Enjoy them as a delightful treat during the holiday season or anytime you need a sweet snack!

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Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms

Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms are a delightful holiday cookie that combine the rich taste of peanut butter with a sweet chocolate candy in the center. These soft and chewy cookies are not only a family favorite but also a classic treat that brings a touch of nostalgia to holiday gatherings. The perfect balance of nutty and sweet makes them irresistible!

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that the cookies bake evenly and perfectly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk together until well combined and set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamy mixture and beat until fully combined.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the peanut butter mixture, stirring well until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
6. Form the Cookies: Using your hands, roll the dough into balls, about 1 inch in size. Roll each ball in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to coat them evenly.
7. Prepare for Baking: Place the cookie balls onto an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They may appear slightly underbaked but will firm up as they cool.
9. Add Chocolate Kisses: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately press a chocolate candy kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
10. Cool Completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help the chocolate kisses to set without melting completely.
11. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, serve these delicious Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms at your holiday gatherings or enjoy them as a sweet treat any time of the year!

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Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies

Cranberry Orange Oatmeal Cookies are a festive treat that combines the chewy goodness of oats with the bright flavors of tart cranberries and zesty orange. These cookies have a delightful texture thanks to the oats and a revitalizing citrus aroma that makes them perfect for the holiday season. Enjoy these cookies as a sweet snack or dessert during gatherings with family and friends!

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that your cookies will bake uniformly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of old-fashioned oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until everything is well combined.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. It’s important not to overmix.
6. Fold in Extras: Gently fold in 1 cup of dried cranberries, the zest of 1 orange, and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts (if using). Use a spatula to guarantee these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Form the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
9. Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the bright flavors of these delicious cookies!

Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Cookies

Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Cookies are a delightful combination of sweet and salty that makes for a perfect festive treat during the holiday season. These cookies have a rich chocolate flavor enhanced by the crunchy texture of pretzels, providing a satisfying bite that will please both kids and adults alike. The added touch of melting chocolate drizzled on top makes these cookies not only delicious but also visually appealing, adding a decadent touch to your holiday cookie platter.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that your cookies will bake evenly and thoroughly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of packed brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until fully combined.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Fold in Pretzels: Gently fold in 1 cup of crushed pretzels until they are evenly incorporated throughout the dough.
7. Scoop the Dough: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Melt Chocolate: While the cookies cool, melt 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
10. Drizzle Chocolate: Once the cookies have cooled, use a fork or a piping bag to drizzle the melted chocolate over the tops of the cookies. Optionally, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate for an extra touch of flavor.
11. Enjoy: Let the chocolate set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delightful Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Cookies with family and friends!