Cookies are the perfect treat for almost any occasion. They make a quick after-school or after-work snack. They're easy to store, and due to their low moisture content, they have a long shelf-life. All cookies are good, but gourmet cookies are even better. Gourmet cookies are made from specialty recipes, using fine ingredients. You can purchase them from a bakery or a gourmet cookie supplier. Enjoy your gourmet cookies as much as possible by doing these four simple things:

1. Store your cookies in an airtight container.

When you bring your gourmet cookies home from the store, they'll be wrapped in airtight packaging to ensure freshness. Once you open the package to enjoy your first cookie, you'll have to consider your storage options. Exposure to air and environmental moisture will cause your cookies to grow soft and stale. Keep them crisp and delightful by storing them in an airtight container. Rigid plastic or glass containers work well.

2. Serve your cookies with an appropriate beverage.

Cookies and milk are a cultural icon for a reason. Cookies taste better when paired with the right beverage. Children will love a small plate of gourmet cookies served with a creamy, tall glass of milk. Adults have more refined palates and often enjoy a little bitterness with their dessert. A hot cup of black coffee will serve as an excellent accompaniment to a plate of gourmet cookies of your own.

3. Warm your cookies before eating them.

There's nothing quite like fresh-baked cookies. Unfortunately, most people are too busy to make their own cookies with any regularity. Fortunately, you don't have to be a baker to enjoy hot, delicious cookies. Make your gourmet cookies extra special by warming them in the oven. Set your oven to a low 275 degrees to ensure you don't burn your cookies. Place your cookies on a cookie sheet and toast them for a few minutes. If you're in a hurry, you can speed up the process by microwaving your cookies for thirty seconds instead. Chocolate chip cookies are particularly delicious when warmed since the chips within have the chance to grow gooey and soft.

4. Eat your cookies quickly.

Cookies last longer than most other baked goods, but true gourmet cookies contain no preservatives. They will taste best when consumed at the peak of their freshness, so don't delay. Enjoy your cookies soon after purchasing them. They will taste best when eaten a week or two from your purchase date.