Book excerpt: Turn simple cookies into delicious masterpieces with this illustrated cookbook featuring more than forty delectable recipes and inspired decorating ideas. A beautifully crafted cookie is a work of art. The Art of the Cookie is packed with delicious cookie recipes that combine fantastic flavor with visual appeal. Whether it's a cookie exchange, holiday gathering, or Mother's Day tea, these cookies will be a memorable addition to any occasion. The Art of the Cookie begins with versatile roll-and-cut dough recipes, such as brown sugar cookies and gingerbread. These classic treats are then elevated with clever yet simple decorating ideas: vibrant vanilla-sugar flowers; alphabet shapes flooded with icing and sprinkled with colorful sugars; and petits fours stacked to resemble a miniature wedding cake. There are also recipes that put a modern twist on more extravagant cookies such as sparkly macaroons; wreath-shaped sugar cookies baked with lemon and thyme. Decoration and filling ideas include icing ornaments and striped cookies that taste and look like peppermint sticks.