The holidays are here and that means lots of baking and trying new recipes. Why not try some Chinese inspired cookies this year. Here are some fun treats that are perfect for parties or last minutes gifts.

Fortune Cookies
You may not think of fortune cookies as holiday treats, but they are actually perfect for last minute gift giving. Simply follow the recipe found at the link above, or purchase store bought cookies. Then dip them in melted white chocolate and sprinkles and place them on wax paper to dry. Once they are dry place them in Chinese take out containers and give them out as gifts. The take out containers can usually be found in Chinese grocery stores and some specialty shops. Some stores such as World Market even sell Holiday decorated take out containers. To decorate a plain take out box simply use holiday stickers or washi tape and ribbon.

Making these cookies at home allows you to personalize the fortunes inside the cookies. The above link is for the pan-fried fortune cookie recipe. However, if you prefer to bake them, you can follow the recipe found here.

Almond Cookies
Similar to shortbread cookies, these Chinese almond cookies make a unique treat for holiday parties and can be made ahead of time. Placing them in a circular pattern on a round red serving tray makes a beautiful presentation for any cocktail party.

Chinese flavored Cut out Cookies
These five spice flavored cut out cookies are perfect for any holiday. The recipe link above describes how for Valentines Day these cut outs are made using cupid and heart cookie cutters. However, for Christmas and New Year’s ginger bread men, nutcracker, or any other festive cookie cutters can be used. Then for decoration simply sprinkle them with a little red and green sprinkles.

These cut out cookies are perfect for both gifts and parties. For gifts, place them in a festive cookie tin or box wrapped in wax paper. Then tie with ribbon or string. The red and white bakers string is perfect this time of year, enjoy.