Which of the following categories includes cookies?

The category that specifically includes cookies is indeed the one labeled "Cookies." This classification is clear because cookies are a distinct type of baked good characterized by their sweet flavor and typically composed of flour, sugar, and various other ingredients such as butter, eggs, and flavorings.

By categorizing cookies separately, it allows for a more organized approach to understanding various baked goods and their specific properties, preparations, and variations. Cookies can vary widely in texture, flavor, and size, making them a unique category that stands apart from other baked items.

In contrast, the other categories mentioned encompass different types of food products. For instance, "Pastry and pies" involve items that are usually characterized by flaky or crisp crusts and fillings, which do not generally apply to cookies. "Cereal and pasta products" pertain to grain-based foods that are not sweet baked goods. Lastly, "Beverages" refers to liquids meant for drinking, which is unrelated to baked items altogether. Therefore, the classification of cookies as part of their own category is both logical and precise, emphasizing their unique status within the broader landscape of culinary items.