Seattle Met Taste Test: Holiday Cookies
Macrina: Swedish Overnights
The Verdict: Even with the liberal topping of sprinkles, several pined for the cookie itself to be sweeter. Given the scone-like texture the rounds would pair well with tea or coffee.
Dahlia Bakery: Gingerbread People
The Verdict: Though we like our ginger folk brittle, these were tooth-cracking crunchy. A splash of color wouldn’t have hurt either.
THIRD PLACE WINNER!
Belle Epicurean: Almond Sandies
The Verdict: Buttery and light wonders, exactly the way sandies should be. Delightful nutty flavor.
Fresh Flours: Snowmen
The Verdict: Best presentation of the bunch. Simple and classic—"tastes like all my childhood Christmases," commented one—but in need of more butter. A close runner-up.
Belle Epicurean: Hazelnut Snowstorms
The Verdict: The rummy undertone was overwhelming for some, but a handful loved the amaretto aftertaste. Thumbs up for the squishy melty texture.
Dahlia Bakery: Pumpkin Whoopies
The Verdict: The spice on top had us split: some relished the savoriness, others found it distracting. All agreed the mini pies were more of a Fall rather than yuletide treat, and tasty when bites weren’t sprinkled in spice.
SECOND PLACE WINNER!
Parisian Star Desserts: Gingerbread Men
The Verdict: Nailed the texture: the crisp outside and soft chewy middle made for a satisfying snap without being too dry. Big points for the festive (and tasty) frost job.
Nielsen’s Pastries: Gingerbread Stars
The Verdict: A taster aptly summed up these gingerbread bars with "not bad, not exciting." Those who like treats less sweet gave their stamp of approval.
FIRST PLACE WINNER!
DeLaurenti Specialty Food and Wine: Nutella Pizzelle
The Verdict: "What’s not to like?" cracked an eater smitten with the generous spread of Nutella. "Looks like a little Belgian waffle sandwich!" said another of the slightly crispy cakes dressed in sugar.
Three Girls Bakery: Rum Balls
The Verdict: Lots of great ingredients—dark chocolate, orange zest, espresso—but the rum dominated. "It’s like spring break in a ball."
Nielsen’s Pastries: Finnish Shortbread
The Verdict: For shortbread cookies these guys sure were short on butter (and sandy as a result).
