There’s nothing like a favorite cookie to give us that instant shot of holiday nostalgia. One crumbly, sugary bite transports you back to warm childhood memories and evokes thoughts of loved ones.
And it doesn’t hurt when the cookie can win you a cash prize, either.
We’re thrilled to launch the Chicago Tribune’s 36th annual Holiday Cookie Contest with our call for recipe submissions starting today.
Going strong since 1986 (except for a blip in 1999), the cookie contest seeks out the best, the most scrumptious, and the most deliciously creative cookies in the Chicago area. Last year’s competition had 35 entrants vying for our cash prize of $150 and induction into cookie celebrity. The winner? An inventive, perfectly buttery Mint Pistachio Choco-Chunk Shortbread Cookie.
Readers can enter their recipes until 11:59 p.m. Oct. 16. Voting will begin Oct. 18, and readers can vote online at chicagotribune.com once a day for the recipes they want to compete for three cash prizes for first, second and third place. After voting ends, the top 12 recipes (with an option to turn it into a baker’s dozen of finalists, should our team feel one recipe merits the addition) will be baked and judged by Tribune journalists and dedicated cookie lovers.
We’ll announce the winners online and in print Nov. 30.
To enter the Tribune’s 36th annual Holiday Cookie Contest, submit the recipe — describing why it is special — and a photo of the cookies (if you have one) below. Please limit descriptions to 200 words or less.
Bakers can enter their recipes for consideration until 11:59 p.m. Oct. 16. Afterward, readers will vote on their favorites and narrow it down to 12 finalists. Tribune journalists will bake and judge the finalists’ recipes and pick three winners. First place wins $250 cash; second place, $150; third place, $50.
Find the recipes for last year’s cookie contest winners here. »
(If you don’t see the entry form below, try refreshing the page or click here.)
Big screen or home stream, takeout or dine-in, Tribune writers are here to steer you toward your next great experience. Sign up for your free weekly Eat. Watch. Do. newsletter here.
