“These cookies are delicious! Being from Davidson County, these cookies are a staple at Christmas.”

Michelle Swaim, Shallotte, a member of Brunswick Electric

A secret family recipe and a special hands-on process where each cookie is rolled, cut, and packed by hand has resulted in a popular North Carolina product that is shipped coast to coast and to more than 30 countries. The recognition of Mrs. Hanes’ Moravian Cookies goes beyond our Carolina Finest awards. It was named one of the best cookie shops in America by USA Today readers. The bakery, which draws on the German craft of making cookies brought here by the early Moravian settlers, is now run by the eighth generation of Moravian cookie makers. It all started with the Moravian Sugar Crisps Cookie which remains a best seller today. The Moravian Ginger Crisps are a Christmas favorite, and, for many, the red tin of cookies announces the Christmas season. The Clemmons-based company hosts tours (schedule in advance), and its products can be found in stores or ordered online.