What is the best definition of a cookie?

It's tough to say definitively what the "best" definition of a cookie is, as it depends on your perspective! Here are a few options, each with its own emphasis:

Culinary Definition:

* A small, flat, sweet baked good, typically made with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter or other fats, and often containing chocolate chips, nuts, or other flavorings. This definition focuses on the common ingredients and preparation method, but can be too broad as it includes many variations.

Informal Definition:

* A delicious and satisfying treat that comes in many flavors and forms. This is more about the experience of eating a cookie, but doesn't provide much concrete information about the ingredients or structure.

Legal Definition (in the US):

* A baked good that is typically small, flat, and sweet, and is often used as a snack or dessert. This definition is used by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to categorize cookies for labeling purposes.

Ultimately, the best definition of a cookie depends on the context. When writing a recipe, a culinary definition is best. When describing a favorite snack, the informal definition works well. And when talking about food regulations, the legal definition is necessary.

No matter how you define it, one thing is certain: a cookie is a universally loved treat!