Christmas is now over, but not all those holiday cookies your neighbors left on your doorstep.

So what to do?

Since the holidays are a time for indulgence and you’re still on a roll, why not celebrate the season by pairing your favorite Christmas cookies with the right craft beers?

And the American Craft Beer crew can help you with that..

Sugar Cookies + Blonde Ale

Why It Works: Sugar cookies are buttery and simple, making them the perfect match for a light, slightly sweet blonde ale. The beer’s malty notes complement the cookie’s vanilla flavor without overpowering it.

ACB Beer Pick: New Belgium Fat Tire Ale

Gingerbread Cookies + Brown Ale

Why It Works: The spicy kick of gingerbread pairs beautifully with the nutty, caramel notes of a brown ale. Together, they evoke cozy fireside vibes.

ACB Beer Pick: AleSmith Nut Brown Ale

Chocolate Chip Cookies + Milk Stout

Why It Works: A rich milk stout enhances the chocolate and adds a creamy sweetness that mirrors the cookie’s gooey texture.

ACB Beer Pick: Lakewood The Temptress

Snickerdoodles + Hefeweizen

Why It Works: The cinnamon-sugar coating of a snickerdoodle pairs wonderfully with the banana and clove flavors in a hefeweizen. It’s a warm, spiced match made in heaven.

ACB Beer Pick: Weihenstephan

Peanut Butter Blossoms + Porter

Why It Works: The roasted, slightly smoky flavors of a porter balance the rich peanut butter and chocolate kiss in these classic cookies.

ACB Beer Pick: Founders Porter

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies + Amber Ale

Why It Works: The toasty malt and caramel flavors of an amber ale enhance the hearty oats and sweet raisins, making this a comforting duo.

ACB Beer Pick: Bell’s Amber Ale

Shortbread Cookies + Pilsner

Why It Works: The crisp, clean nature of a pilsner cuts through the buttery richness of shortbread, creating a refreshing balance.

ACB Beer Pick: Firestone Walker Pivo Pils

Peppermint Bark Cookies + Coffee Stout

Why It Works: The bold, roasted coffee flavors of a stout highlight the cool, minty bite of peppermint bark, while the chocolate ties it all together.

ACB Beer Pick: AleSmith Speedway Stout

Thumbprint Cookies + Sour Ale

Why It Works: The tartness of a sour ale enhances the fruit jam centers of thumbprint cookies, creating a vibrant, tangy-sweet pairing.

ACB Beer Pick: Dogfish Head SeaQuench Ale

Molasses Cookies + Winter Warmer Ale

Why It Works: Winter warmers often feature spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, echoing the warm, spiced molasses flavors in the cookies. Together, they taste like holiday cheer.

ACB Beer Pick: Great Lakes Christmas Ale

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Tips for Pairing Craft Beer and Cookies

• Match Intensity: Pair light beers with delicate cookies and robust beers with bold flavors.
• Balance Flavors: Look for complementary or contrasting notes to create harmony.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to mix and match based on your palate.

And while we’re at it, there’s also this…

Ultimate Beer Gifts: Guinness X Last Crumb Cookie Collection