by Clinique
Cookies & Kisses by Clinique opens with a crisp, peppery burst of apple and bergamot, evoking a cool autumn morning. The heart reveals a blend of balsamic fir, chestnut, and pimento, creating a cozy, woodsy spiciness that feels more like a cabin in the woods than a dessert table. As it dries down, the scent turns warm and slightly sweet, with a gourmanded ribbon of vanilla and ambroxan, producing an effect that many feel resembles a spiced apple pie or even plant-based cocoa. While various users mention expectations of cookie or chocolate gourmand notes, only a minority report smelling them directly—more often, the fragrance evokes smoky, earthy, and foresty accords reminiscent of By the Fireplace, yet softer, less aggressive, and more suitable for daywear in autumn or winter. The scent is low-sillage and moderate in longevity, with less projection than expected, especially when compared to heavier fragrances like Black Opium or Dior Addict. Some find it synthetically sweet or lacking in depth, especially on sensitive skin or in warmer weather, but among those who appreciate its subtle, muted warmth, it becomes a favorite for indoor occasions or layering with other scents. Its wearable nature and price point make it a satisfying option for those seeking a budget-friendly, unisex, woody-spicy scent without strong gourmand profiles.