What are molded cookies?

"Molded cookies" is a bit of a broad term, but it usually refers to cookies that are shaped using a mold. This can be done in several ways:

1. Cookie Press: This is the most common method. A cookie press is a handheld device with a plunger that forces cookie dough through a shaped die, creating consistent and intricate shapes. These cookies are often called pressed cookies.

2. Cookie Mold: This method uses a solid mold that the dough is pressed into. The mold can be made of various materials, like metal, silicone, or plastic. This technique is common for holiday cookies, like gingerbread men or Christmas trees.

3. Hand-molding: This involves shaping the dough by hand, often using a template or guide. It requires some skill and patience, but it allows for unique and custom shapes.

Examples of molded cookies:

* Spritz cookies: These are classic pressed cookies made with a cookie press, often in intricate shapes like flowers, stars, or swirls.

* Gingerbread cookies: Often shaped with a cookie mold into classic figures like gingerbread men, reindeer, or snowmen.

* Biscotti: These twice-baked cookies are sometimes shaped with a mold, especially for holiday variations.

* Peanut butter cookies: While typically dropped, peanut butter cookies can be shaped with a cookie press or mold.

The term "molded cookies" can also be used to describe cookies that are made in a mold, but not necessarily shaped in a specific way. For example, chocolate chip cookies can be baked in a silicone mold to create individual cookies with a defined shape.

Overall, "molded cookies" encompasses a variety of cookies shaped with a mold, offering a range of styles, textures, and flavors.