How Do Cookies Work: A Recipe for Success
Can you guess which one is true?
1. Cookies are yummy baked sweets often paired with milk. Most cookies have either icing or chocolate chips. (Fun fact: InfoWest employees are divided between Crumbl cookies and dirty dough
2. Cookies are clandestine viruses that magically download onto your desktop the moment you accept them.
3. A cookie is a small piece of data generated by a website and stored on the user's device. It serves as a helpful tool that allows users to navigate websites seamlessly, preserving information across visits and preventing the need to re-enter data.
If you selected number 3, you're correct.
There are two main types of cookies: first-party and third-party cookies. First-party cookies are set by the website you are visiting, allowing your web browser to remember your preferences and interactions with that specific site.
Third-party cookies are set by domains other than the one you are currently visiting, often by advertisers. They track your browsing behavior across different websites to deliver targeted advertisements based on your interests.
Cookies are generally harmless, yet third-party cookies can pose a significant security concern if exploited by hackers or in cyberattacks, potentially compromising private information. Therefore, are cookies a security risk?
Yes, they can be. However, you can manage them easily. Here's how to do it on Google Chrome:
1. Click on the three dots in the top right corner.
2. Choose "Settings."
3. Select "Privacy and Security."
4. Click on "Third-party cookies."
5. Toggle "Block third-party cookies."
You can also block third-party cookies in Incognito mode.
Many websites allow you to decline third-party cookies while still using the site, giving you the ability to customize your experience and control your privacy.
Cookies play a big role in enhancing our online experience by remembering preferences and interactions across websites.
By understanding how cookies work and taking simple steps like managing cookie settings in your browser, users can navigate the web more safely and protect personal information. Remember, staying informed empowers you to make choices that align with your online privacy preferences. Get InfoWest Internet: https://signup.infowest.com/signup/servicecheck
After all this reading about cookies, here’s one of Fred’s favorite cookie recipes:
**Ingredients:**
- 2 1/4 cups Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup coarsely chopped nuts (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Heat your oven to 375°F (180°C).
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a small bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy (about 1 minute).
4. **Add Egg and Vanilla:** Beat in the egg and vanilla until smooth.
5. **Incorporate Flour Mixture:** Stir in the flour mixture just until blended (the dough will be stiff).
6. **Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts:** Mix in the semisweet chocolate chips and coarsely chopped nuts (if desired).
7. **Bake:** Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
8. **Cool on a Wire Rack.**
9. **Enjoy:** Serve warm with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage.
**Customization Ideas:**
- **Double Chocolate Lovers:** Add white chocolate chips or chunks for an extra chocolatey experience.
- **Nutty Delight:** Use macadamia nuts or chopped pecans for added crunch.
- **Salted Butterscotch-Pecan:** Swap in butterscotch chips and pecans, then sprinkle with coarse salt before baking.
