Williams-Sonoma Collection: Cookies

I am not a novice in the kitchen - that's for sure. But with the help of this book, I've managed to make some of the nicest cookies I've ever made. I found the recipes easy to follow and clear instructions. The smells in the kitchen are so good, we've often eaten the goods before they are cooled properly. If you are a little kitchen challenged, this is for you because as I mentioned, I'm finally getting some serious results (and putting on a pound or two).

I have had excellent experiences using this book. Although some of the recipes call for non-standard kitchen equipment (like Madeleine trays or silicon baking sheet liners) most of the recipes are both easy to use and very good to eat. I particularly liked the chocolate chip cookie recipe; it never fails to turn out chewy and delicious chocolate chip cookies. Here are the rest of the recipes included: Scotch Shortbread, Sugar Cookies, Lemon Bars, Anise Biscotti, Madeleines, Linzer Cookies, Oatmeal Cookies, Brownies, Blondies, Chocolate Cookie Sandwiches, Black & White Cookies, Nutty Butter Balls, Crisp Chocolate Bites, Ruby Jewel Cookies, Almond Sand Cookies, Neapolitan Cookies, Chocolate Espresso Bars, Almond Crisps Drizzled with Chocolate, Peanut Butter Cookies, Brown Sugar Tuiles, Cigarettes Russes, Pistachio-Spice Cookies, Double-Ginger Snaps, Lizzies, Hazelnut & Dried Cherry Biscotti, Butterscotch Coconut Cookies, Oatmeal, Date, & Walnut Spice Cookies, Coconut-Macademia Triangles, Spritz Cookies, Mexican Wedding Cookies, Moravian Molasses Cookies, Brandy Snaps, Bourbon Balls, Rugelach with Apricot and Pistachio Filling, and Hazelnut Meringues. The book also has an excellent section of decorating tips and every recipe features a beautiful full-page color photo.

The recipes in this cookbook are very straightforward and easy-to-follow. And at this price, it's totally worth it, because you'll definitely find at least two or three recipes you'll fall in love with. I personally love the Gingersnaps, and they've been a big hit with my family as well. Give yourself a little extra time the first time you prepare any of these recipes: they're not hard, but you'll definitely get better/faster at it the more you do it. Highly recommended for anyone, whether you're a master chef or just a beginner -- the great photos and straightforward directions are perfect for any skill level!