Food - For the Love of Cookies

Top Cookies Win Big State Fair Awards

DeeDee Kennedy of Des Moines won first place and a $350 cash award in the For the Love of Cookies competition judged Monday, August 14, at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.

Marianne Carlson of Jefferson earned second place and $250. Chris Myers of Boone claimed third place and $150.

Contestants were challenged to create a plate of eight cookies that contained chocolate or peanut butter or both as ingredients.

Entries were judged on taste, texture and appearance.

Complete results follow:

1) DeeDee Kennedy, Des Moines

2) Marianne Carlson, Jefferson

3) Chris Myers, Boone

4) Jenna Brady Runnells

5) Heather Derr, Clive

6) Terri Treft, Sioux City

Hon Mention - Marla Mayberry

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There are 138 divisions, 695 classes and over 6,800 entries at this year’s Fair. Food Department judging is held in the Elwell Family Food Center.