One problem we've always had with chocolate cookie recipes is that they often taste of cocoa powder rather than the real thing. Not so with this recipe, which produces an almost overwhelmingly authentic chocolate cookie. 

Gingerbread cookies can be a divisive issue, some likening the stuff to cardboard while others can't wait to sink their teeth into spicy goodness. But we found this new twist on the classic to be a hit for all tastes, with it's sweet-citrusy glaze and contrasting gingery chewy cookie. 

The difference between macaroons that people will eat (and the ones they'll ignore at a cookie swap) is a small one: Toasting the coconut beforehand. This will bring out the flavor of the coconut while eliminating any "stringy" texture.

A rum ball is a rite of adulthood. Strong but sweet, the flavor of cookie crumbs and chopped nuts soaked in rum makes being over 21 at the holidays worth it (and the family gathering a little more tolerable). For the "black and white" effect, roll half the batch in powdered sugar.

A retro favorite if there ever was one, these cookies feature a sweet cookie wrapped around a peanut butter cup. (It's a twist on the usual Hershey Kiss-topped cookie.) Who wouldn't want a batch of these to call their own? 

Think of linzer tarts as an upgrade from your typical thumbprint cookie. These feature a spoonful of juicy raspberry jam sandwiched between two not-too-sweet cookies. You can get creative with the cut-outs, but we like a traditional heart.

To some people, oatmeal cookies are considered a punishment rather than a gift. (We're not one of those people, for the record. (Ed. note: speak for youself)) These "doily" cookies, however, will completely change their minds. These lacy confections are thin, buttery and delicately chocolatey. The oatmeal isn't center stage but rather a way to get some chewy goodness into the mix.