Why do we bake? Because we get a sweet reward when we are finished. Because that one particular cookie we bake each year makes us think of our grandmothers. Because during this season—when we are immersed in the spirit of sharing—something from our own ovens is a gift far better than anything we could buy. These recipes are handpicked from new books written by some of the country’s top bakers. There are biscotti perfect for dipping, fresh vanilla-bean-infused sugar cookies you can cut into any shape you like, raspberry-marzipan bars that call for a pot of fresh coffee and some time spent with a friend at the kitchen table, and simple drop cookies just right for budding bakers. So settle into the kitchen to make some cookies, some memories—and maybe a little holiday magic, too.