Sunday Special: ’Tis the Season for Cookies

In this episode of the Sunday special, host Gilbert Cruz welcomes Melissa Clark and Vaughn Vreeland to discuss Cookie Week at The New York Times. They delve into the origins and evolution of Cookie Week, its themes, and the specific cookies featured this year, including Melissa's Vietnamese coffee brownie and Vaughn's popcorn bucket cookie. They also debate whether a brownie can be considered a cookie. The hosts answer listener questions about cookie baking, savory alternatives to cookies for gifting, and how to store cookies for optimal freshness. The episode further explores holiday entertaining, signature cocktail recipes, main course meat options beyond ham or turkey, and creative party favors. The guests share their holiday meal plans, and the episode concludes with a game testing their knowledge of holiday-themed food and culture.