Ever bite into a cookie that stops you in your tracks? It’s the kind of treat that makes you close your eyes for a second just to savor it. That experience isn't an accident. It’s the result of a perfect balance between rich flavor, satisfying texture, and quality ingredients working in harmony. A truly great cookie is more than just sweet; it has depth and character. It’s the difference between a forgettable snack and a memorable indulgence. So, what are the most flavorful cookies, and what’s the secret to creating them? This guide breaks down everything that goes into a phenomenal cookie, from the power of brown butter to the science of chewy versus crispy.

Key Takeaways

• Flavor Is Built from the Ground Up: The secret to a memorable cookie isn't a single magic ingredient, but the quality of every component. Details like using brown butter for nutty richness or real vanilla to deepen other flavors are what create a complex, satisfying taste in every bite.
• Texture Doesn't Happen by Accident: That perfect chewy center or crispy edge is the result of smart baking techniques. Chilling the dough to concentrate flavor and managing ingredient temperatures are key steps that separate an average cookie from an exceptional one.
• The Best Flavors Play with Contrast: Don't shy away from unique combinations, as they often make for the most delicious cookies. A perfect balance of salty and sweet, a hint of spice, or a touch of citrus zest can cut through richness and turn a simple cookie into a dynamic treat.

What's the Secret to an Unforgettable Cookie?

Ever bite into a cookie and have that "wow" moment? It’s the kind of cookie you think about for days, the one that sets the bar for all future cookies. What separates a decent, everyday treat from a truly unforgettable one isn't just a single ingredient or a complicated recipe—it's a thoughtful combination of flavor, texture, and technique. It’s about understanding how simple elements work together to create something truly special.

First, let's talk about flavor. An amazing cookie has depth. It’s not just sweet; it’s complex. This often comes from using ingredients that act as flavor amplifiers. For example, a high-quality vanilla extract doesn't just add a hint of vanilla; it enhances the richness of the butter and chocolate, adding a layer of warmth. The secret to an exciting cookie often comes down to smart flavor pairing. Think about how a dash of sea salt makes caramel pop, or how a tart cherry can cut through the sweetness of white chocolate. It’s this perfect balance that keeps you coming back for another bite.

Of course, flavor is only half the story. Texture is what makes a cookie satisfying. The final texture—whether it's crispy, chewy, or somewhere in between—is a direct result of a few key factors. The balance of sugar and fat plays a huge role; more sugar tends to create a crisper cookie, while more fat leads to a softer, chewier bite. Your baking temperature is another critical piece of the puzzle. Higher temperatures can give you that perfect crispy exterior, while lower temperatures allow the center to stay soft and gooey. It’s this mastery of the fundamentals that transforms a simple recipe into a cookie masterpiece.

Classic Cookie Flavors We'll Always Love

Some flavors are classics for a reason. They’re the cookies we grew up with, the ones that taste like home and bring back the best memories. Before we explore the wilder side of cookie flavors, let’s take a moment to appreciate the tried-and-true recipes that have earned their permanent spot in our hearts and cookie jars. These are the foundational flavors that set the stage for every creative twist that followed. They’re comforting, reliable, and downright delicious every single time.

Chocolate Chip: The Undisputed Classic

Is there anything more perfect than a warm chocolate chip cookie? That simple combination of buttery dough and melted chocolate is pure magic. It’s the first cookie many of us learn to bake and the one we crave when we need a little comfort. This cookie is a universal favorite, often being the most requested flavor at local bakeries for its familiar, heartwarming taste. Whether you like them soft and gooey or thin and crispy, the chocolate chip cookie is a timeless icon that never disappoints. It’s the little black dress of the cookie world—always in style and perfect for any occasion.

Snickerdoodle: A Perfect Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl

If you love warm spices, the snickerdoodle is probably one of your go-to cookies. What makes it so special is that delightful tang from the cream of tartar, which perfectly balances the sweet, crackly cinnamon-sugar coating. It’s a simple drop cookie, but its unique flavor profile makes it stand out. Snickerdoodles can be made soft and pillowy or with a bit of a crisp, making them a versatile treat. While many think of them as a holiday staple, their cozy flavor is wonderful any time of year. It’s a sophisticated yet simple cookie that always feels like a special treat.

Oatmeal Raisin: The Ultimate Comfort Cookie

Often misunderstood, the oatmeal raisin cookie is the ultimate comfort food. It’s hearty, chewy, and packed with wholesome goodness from the oats and sweet bursts of flavor from the raisins. This cookie is pure nostalgia for many, reminding them of after-school snacks and cozy afternoons. The combination of hearty oats, brown sugar, and warm spices creates a wonderfully soft texture and a rich, satisfying flavor. It’s less of a dessert and more of a hug in cookie form, making it one of the most popular types of cookies for those seeking a comforting bite.

Peanut Butter: Perfectly Rich and Salty-Sweet

For those who love the irresistible combination of salty and sweet, the peanut butter cookie is a dream come true. Its dense, chewy texture and rich, nutty flavor are incredibly satisfying. And you can’t forget the signature crisscross pattern on top, traditionally made with the tines of a fork. This classic design isn't just for looks; it helps the dense dough bake more evenly. It also serves as a handy visual cue for anyone with a peanut allergy. This cookie is a powerhouse of flavor and a beloved classic that has rightfully earned its place in the cookie hall of fame.

Unique Cookie Flavors You Have to Try

While we’ll always have a special place in our hearts for the classics, there’s a whole world of incredible cookie flavors waiting to be discovered. Moving beyond the familiar is where the real fun begins. Unique flavors turn a simple snack into a memorable experience, whether you’re treating yourself after a long day, sending a thoughtful gift, or looking for a corporate treat that stands out from the crowd.

At Molly Bz, we live for flavor innovation. We believe a cookie can be more than just a sweet bite—it can be a conversation starter, a nostalgic journey, or a delightful surprise. We draw inspiration from everywhere: classic desserts reimagined, seasonal ingredients at their peak, and even our favorite childhood snacks. The goal is always the same: to create a perfectly balanced, ridiculously delicious cookie that you’ll be thinking about long after the last crumb is gone. Ready to find your new favorite? Let’s explore some of the unique flavors that are changing the cookie game.

Molly Bz's Signature Flavors

This is where our passion for creativity really shines. Crafting a signature flavor is about more than just mixing ingredients; it’s about telling a story. We experiment with textures, balance sweet with salty, and find unexpected pairings that just work. From nutty, toasted notes to bright, zesty citrus, our signature cookies are designed to surprise and delight. Each one is a testament to our belief that the best flavors come from quality ingredients and a little bit of daring. These are the cookies that define the Molly Bz experience—bold, unforgettable, and baked with a whole lot of love.

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip: A Nutty Twist on a Classic

Let's be honest, a perfect chocolate chip cookie is hard to beat. But what if you could make it even better? The secret is brown butter. By gently heating butter until the milk solids toast, it develops a deep, nutty aroma and flavor that completely transforms the cookie dough. Some bakers even add a hint of espresso powder to make the chocolate flavor more intense. It’s the classic you love, but with a sophisticated, grown-up twist that makes it feel brand new.

Lemon Meringue: Zesty, Sweet, and Bright

If you're looking for a cookie that tastes like sunshine, this is it. A great lemon meringue cookie is all about balance. It has that bright, zesty punch from real lemon, softened by a sweet, creamy vanilla flavor that reminds you of a classic meringue pie. It’s a refreshing departure from richer, chocolate-based cookies and is one of the most surprisingly requested cookie flavors at local bakeries for a reason. This cookie is perfect for a spring celebration, an afternoon pick-me-up, or anytime you need a little brightness in your day.

Maple Pecan: Sweet, Toasty, and Complex

This flavor is for those who appreciate rich, comforting tastes. Maple pecan cookies have a dedicated following—a true "cult favorite" for a reason. The magic happens when the sweet, earthy flavor of real maple syrup meets the buttery crunch of toasted pecans. It’s a combination that feels both rustic and indulgent. Each bite is warm, nutty, and deeply satisfying, making it the perfect companion for a cup of coffee on a cool morning. It’s a complex flavor that’s anything but boring.

Salted Caramel: The Perfect Salty-Sweet Combination

The salty-sweet trend is here to stay, and for good reason. A salted caramel cookie is the perfect example of how a little contrast can create an incredible flavor experience. It starts with a rich, buttery cookie base swirled with gooey, sweet caramel. But the real star is the finishing touch: a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. That little bit of salt cuts through the sweetness, making the caramel taste even richer and more complex. It’s a simple trick that turns a great cookie into a jaw-droppingly delicious one.

Fluffernutter: A Taste of Childhood

Get ready for a serious dose of nostalgia. The Fluffernutter combines two childhood staples—creamy peanut butter and sweet, gooey marshmallow fluff—into one incredible cookie. It’s the taste of your favorite after-school sandwich, but in a soft, chewy, grown-up form. This flavor is pure comfort and fun, reminding you of simpler times with every bite. It’s a playful and delicious treat that proves you’re never too old for a childhood favorite. This cookie is all about bringing a smile to your face.

How the Right Ingredients Create Incredible Flavor

The secret to a truly unforgettable cookie isn’t some complicated, top-secret technique—it’s all about the ingredients. Think of it like this: you can’t create a masterpiece with subpar paints. The same goes for baking. Every single component, from the butter to the tiniest pinch of salt, plays a starring role in building the final flavor. High-quality, thoughtfully chosen ingredients are what separate a decent cookie from a mind-blowingly delicious one. When you focus on the fundamentals, you create a foundation for incredible taste and texture. Let’s look at some of the key players that turn a simple treat into a gourmet experience.

Why Brown Butter and Quality Fats Are Game-Changers

If you want to instantly give your cookies a more complex, gourmet flavor, start with brown butter. This isn’t a special type of butter, but a simple technique of melting it until the milk solids toast and turn a beautiful amber color. The process creates a wonderfully nutty and rich aroma that transforms the entire cookie. But beyond brown butter, the quality of your fat—whether it’s butter or another type—is crucial. Fat does more than just add moisture; it’s the vehicle for flavor. The way you combine fat and sugar is what creates that light, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Using high-quality fats ensures a richer taste and a superior texture every time.

Good Vanilla: The Ultimate Flavor Enhancer

Vanilla is so much more than just a background ingredient; it’s the ultimate team player. A high-quality vanilla extract is often the secret behind the deep, rich flavors in the best cookies you’ve ever had. It acts as a flavor amplifier, adding a layer of complexity and warmth that brings out the best in other ingredients like chocolate, nuts, and spices. While imitation vanilla might seem like a good swap, it lacks the nuanced, aromatic notes of the real thing. Pure vanilla extract, made from actual vanilla beans, provides a depth of flavor that artificial versions just can’t replicate. It’s a small detail that makes a world of difference in the final product.

Brown Sugar vs. White Sugar: What's the Difference?

The type of sugar you use has a massive impact on your cookie’s final texture and taste. White granulated sugar tends to create a crisper, flatter cookie because it helps the dough spread more in the oven. Brown sugar, on the other hand, contains molasses, which adds moisture and acidity. This is why, as a general rule, the more brown sugar you use, the softer and chewier your cookie will be. The molasses also contributes a subtle caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with ingredients like cinnamon and chocolate. Many of the best recipes use a combination of both sugars to achieve that perfect balance: a cookie that’s soft in the middle with slightly crisp edges.

How Quality Cocoa Creates Deeper Chocolate Flavor

For chocolate lovers, nothing is more disappointing than a cookie that tastes vaguely of chocolate instead of delivering a rich, decadent punch. The key to an intensely chocolatey flavor lies in the quality of your cocoa powder. Not all cocoa is created equal. Using a high-quality cocoa powder can dramatically lift a cookie's flavor profile from flat to fantastic. Options like Dutch-processed cocoa offer a smoother, less acidic taste, while natural cocoa powder provides a sharper, more classic chocolate flavor. Investing in good cocoa ensures your chocolate cookies are deep, complex, and truly satisfying, making every bite a rich and memorable experience.

Using Spices and Zest to Transform Your Cookies

Ready to move beyond the basics? Spices and citrus zest are your best friends for creating truly unique cookies. A simple sugar cookie dough can become something extraordinary with just a few additions. Try adding a pinch of cardamom for a warm, slightly floral note, or a bit of ginger for a spicy kick. Cinnamon and nutmeg are classics for a reason, adding a comforting warmth that feels like a hug. For a brighter flavor, the zest of a lemon or orange can cut through the richness of the butter and sugar, creating a fresh, vibrant taste. These additions are an easy way to innovate cookie flavors and surprise your taste buds.

Don't Forget the Salt: The Secret to Balanced Flavor

Salt might be the most underrated ingredient in the baker’s pantry. Its job in a cookie isn’t to make it taste salty, but to make it taste more like itself. Salt is a natural flavor enhancer that balances sweetness and prevents your cookies from tasting one-dimensionally sugary. It sharpens and brightens the other flavors in the dough, making the chocolate taste more chocolatey and the vanilla more aromatic. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking can also add a delightful crunch and a pop of savory contrast. It’s a simple step that provides a more balanced and sophisticated flavor profile, proving that sometimes the smallest details make the biggest impact.

Simple Baking Tricks for More Flavorful Cookies

Beyond the quality of your butter and chocolate, a few simple techniques can make a world of difference in your cookies. These aren’t complicated chef secrets, just small adjustments that pay off big in the flavor department. Getting these details right is how you go from a good cookie to an unforgettable one. Let's walk through four key tricks that will help you bake your most delicious cookies yet.

Get Your Temperatures Right

Baking is a science, and temperature is one of the most important variables. It’s not just about preheating your oven correctly (though that’s crucial!). The temperature of your ingredients matters, too. Most recipes call for room-temperature butter and eggs for a reason. When they’re at the right temp, they emulsify and blend into a smooth, uniform dough. This creates a consistent texture and prevents a greasy final product. Similarly, knowing the best temperature to bake cookies in your oven—usually 350°F to 375°F—ensures they bake evenly, developing a golden-brown exterior while staying soft and chewy inside.

Why You Should Always Chill Your Dough

I know, waiting is the hardest part, but chilling your cookie dough is a step you should never skip. When you let the dough rest in the fridge, you’re doing two amazing things for your cookies. First, you’re solidifying the fat. Cold butter melts more slowly in the oven, which means your cookies will spread less and bake up thicker and chewier. Second, you’re giving the flavors time to deepen and meld together. The flour fully hydrates, concentrating the taste of the butter, sugar, and vanilla. This simple pause is one of the biggest secrets to better cookies with a richer, more complex flavor.

Creaming Butter and Sugar the Right Way

That first step in most cookie recipes—creaming the butter and sugar—is more than just mixing. When you beat softened butter and sugar together, you’re creating thousands of tiny air pockets. These pockets are essential for giving your cookies the right texture and lift. Properly creamed butter and sugar will look light, pale, and fluffy. This process aerates the dough, which helps it rise and creates a tender, delicate crumb. Don’t rush this step! Give it a good 3 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer. It’s the foundation for a cookie that’s light and flavorful, not dense and flat.

How to Mix Without Overdoing It

While you can’t really over-mix your butter and sugar, the opposite is true once you add the flour. As soon as the dry ingredients go in, your goal is to mix as little as possible. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which is great for chewy bread but terrible for tender cookies. Too much gluten will make your cookies tough, dense, and rubbery. Mix on low speed just until the flour streaks disappear. It’s better to stop when you can still see a tiny bit of flour than to mix it for too long. This gentle touch ensures your cookies have that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Chewy vs. Crispy: How Texture Impacts Flavor

The great cookie debate: do you prefer a soft, chewy center or a light, crispy bite? While it might seem like a matter of personal preference, texture does more than just define how a cookie feels in your mouth—it completely changes how you experience its flavor. A chewier cookie releases its buttery, sweet notes more slowly, while a crisp cookie delivers an immediate snap of flavor. Understanding the relationship between texture and taste is the key to appreciating—and baking—a truly phenomenal cookie. It all comes down to a little bit of science and a few key techniques.

The Science Behind Chewy and Crispy

The texture of a cookie is all about managing moisture, fat, and sugar. A chewy cookie has more moisture, which often comes from using ingredients like brown sugar and egg yolks. On the other hand, a crispy cookie has less moisture, which allows it to snap. The temperature of your oven plays a huge role here. As baking experts note, baking at elevated temperatures creates a crisper exterior because the heat quickly evaporates moisture. For a softer, chewier bite, a lower temperature allows the cookie to bake more gently, keeping that delicious, soft center intact.

Achieving That Perfect Soft Center and Crispy Edge

Want that perfect balance of a chewy middle and crispy edges? It starts with how you mix your ingredients. The creaming method—beating butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—is essential for incorporating air and giving your cookies lift. The type of sugar you use is also critical. Using more brown sugar will result in a softer, more moist cookie, while white sugar contributes to a crispier texture and more spread. By playing with the ratio of brown to white sugar, you can dial in the exact texture you’re looking for, creating that irresistible contrast in every single bite.

Using Mix-Ins for Better Texture and Taste

Mix-ins are where you can really get creative, adding another layer of texture and flavor to your cookies. Think about the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, the gooey pockets of melted chocolate, or the soft chew of dried cranberries. These additions create contrast and make each bite more interesting. The key is to choose supporting flavors that complement the dough without overwhelming it. By layering these additions thoughtfully, you can build dimension and excitement, turning a simple cookie into a complex and memorable treat that delights with every bite.

Find Your Perfect Flavor Match

Choosing a cookie isn't just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it's about finding a flavor that speaks to you. Whether you're a purist who loves the classics or a culinary explorer seeking something new, there’s a perfect cookie out there waiting for you. Think of this as your personal guide to discovering your next favorite treat. We’ll help you identify what you love and point you toward flavors that will make your taste buds sing. Let's find the Molly Bz cookie that’s meant for you.

If You're New to Gourmet Cookies

Welcome! If you're just starting to explore the world beyond basic chocolate chip, the best place to begin is with a familiar flavor that’s been perfected. Gourmet cookies often take a classic recipe and refine it with high-quality ingredients. For example, many recipes rely on vanilla extract as a secret weapon to amplify other ingredients and add a layer of warmth and complexity. Start by trying an elevated version of a cookie you already love. A classic chocolate chip made with brown butter or a sugar cookie with real vanilla bean can show you just how incredible a simple treat can be when it’s made with care and the best ingredients.

For the Adventurous Cookie Lover

If you’re the type who orders the most interesting thing on the menu, this is for you. The magic of gourmet cookies often lies in unexpected flavor combinations. A great cookie is all about balance, and sometimes the most exciting flavors come from pairing sweet with something surprising. Adding a touch of sour cherry to a white chocolate cookie or a pinch of cayenne to a rich chocolate dough can create a truly memorable experience. Don't be afraid to try cookies that feature unique spices like cardamom, ginger, or nutmeg. These thoughtful additions are what flavor pairing is all about, creating a cookie that’s both balanced and exciting.

Our All-Time Favorite Molly Bz Flavors

We pour our hearts into every recipe, but even we have a few favorites that we come back to again and again. What makes them so special? It always comes down to the ingredients. For the ultimate chocolate chip cookie, we find that using high-quality butter creates a rich flavor you just can't get anywhere else. Our most-loved creations are the ones where every component shines, from the vanilla bean and premium cocoa powder to the fresh citrus zest and exotic spices that lift the entire flavor profile. These are the cookies that perfectly represent what Molly Bz is all about: unforgettable flavor in every single bite.

The Perfect Cookie for Every Occasion

Cookies aren't just a dessert; they're a perfect fit for so many moments in life. Whether you need a little pick-me-up, a thoughtful gift, or a treat to share with a crowd, there’s a cookie that’s just right for the job. The key is matching the flavor, texture, and overall vibe of the cookie to the event. Let's break down how to choose the perfect cookie for any situation.

For Your Afternoon Treat

We’ve all been there—that 3 p.m. wall when you need something to get you through the rest of the day. While a classic chocolate chip cookie is always a good idea, your afternoon treat is the perfect time to be a little adventurous. Sometimes the most unexpected cookie flavors end up being the most satisfying. Instead of reaching for the usual, why not try something with a fun twist? A cookie with a hint of spice, a surprising filling, or a salty-sweet combination can turn a routine snack into a moment of pure delight. It’s a small way to add a little excitement to your day.

For a Gift That Wows

When you give cookies as a gift, you want them to feel special. The secret to a truly impressive cookie often comes down to high-quality ingredients. A simple touch like real vanilla extract can add incredible depth and warmth, acting as a flavor amplifier that makes every bite richer. To make your gift even more memorable, look for unique flavor pairings. Cookies that incorporate bright citrus zest, warm spices, or high-quality cocoa stand out from the crowd and show you put real thought into your choice. It’s these little details that turn a simple cookie into a gourmet experience worth sharing.

For Your Next Corporate Event

Choosing treats for a corporate event can be tricky. You need something that appeals to a wide range of people and looks professional. This is where texture and presentation really matter. The right balance of ingredients makes all the difference—the ratio of flour, sugar, and fat has a huge impact on whether a cookie is soft and chewy or light and crisp. A cookie with a satisfying texture and a clean, polished look leaves a great impression. Opt for flavors that are sophisticated but still approachable, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy during a break or networking session.

How to Store Cookies to Keep Them Delicious

Let’s be honest, there’s nothing better than biting into a perfectly fresh, flavorful cookie. But it’s always a little sad when you reach for one a day later only to find it’s gone hard and stale. The good news is that proper storage is the secret to making that just-baked taste last. With a few simple tricks, you can protect the incredible flavor and texture of your favorite Molly Bz treats.

First things first: you need to keep air out. Air is the enemy of freshness, so an airtight container is non-negotiable. Whether it’s a cookie jar with a tight seal or a simple zip-top bag, make sure it’s sealed properly to lock in moisture and flavor. Once they’re packed up, store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, like a pantry or cupboard.

If you’re enjoying a variety of cookies, it’s best to store different types separately. Soft, chewy cookies have more moisture than crispy ones. When they’re stored together, that moisture can transfer, making your crunchy cookies lose their satisfying snap. Giving each type its own airtight home ensures every cookie stays exactly as it was intended to be. For an extra trick to keep chewy cookies soft, add a slice of white bread to the container—the cookies will absorb moisture from the bread.

Want to save some cookies for a rainy day? For long-term storage, your best bet is to freeze them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer for an hour. Once they’re solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months. When you’re ready for a treat, just let them thaw at room temperature.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the single most important tip for making better cookies at home? If you only do one thing, chill your dough. I know it feels like an unnecessary step when you want cookies now, but letting the dough rest in the fridge for at least an hour makes a huge difference. It allows the butter to solidify, which means your cookies will spread less and bake up thicker. It also gives the flavors time to deepen, resulting in a richer, more complex taste.

I'm new to gourmet cookies. Which flavor should I try first? Starting with a familiar flavor that has a special twist is always a great idea. A Brown Butter Chocolate Chip is the perfect entry point. You get the comfort and nostalgia of a classic chocolate chip cookie, but the nutty, toasted flavor from the brown butter shows you just how much depth a single high-quality ingredient can add. It helps you appreciate the craft without feeling too outside your comfort zone.

Do high-quality ingredients like real vanilla and good butter actually make a noticeable difference? Absolutely. Think of it this way: your main ingredients form the foundation of the cookie's flavor. Using a high-quality, flavorful butter or a pure vanilla extract doesn't just add its own taste; it enhances everything around it. The chocolate tastes more chocolatey, the spices are warmer, and the overall cookie has a richness that you just can't get from imitation flavorings or lower-quality fats.

My cookies always turn out either too crispy or too cakey. What am I doing wrong? This is usually a simple issue of ingredient balance and mixing. For a chewier cookie, make sure your recipe uses more brown sugar than white sugar, as the molasses in it adds moisture. If your cookies are too cakey or tough, you might be overmixing the dough after adding the flour. Once the dry ingredients go in, mix only until they’re just combined to keep the texture tender.

What makes a flavor combination work in a cookie? A great flavor pairing is all about balance. It’s not just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about making them complement each other. Often, this means creating a little contrast. A dash of sea salt can cut through the sweetness of caramel, making it taste richer. A bit of tart lemon zest can brighten up a buttery dough. The goal is to create a cookie where every ingredient has a purpose and contributes to a more interesting, delicious bite.