Are you frustrated with frosting flops? Had it with icing intruding where it doesn't belong? We have searched for the top 10 cookie decorating tips to help you achieve beautiful and delicious results:
- Make more royal icing than you think you'll need. It's better to have extra icing in each color you plan to use than to run out in the middle of decorating. We have tips for Perfect Royal Icing Every Time, recipe included, and hints for achieving just the right color. You can always store the leftover icing in an airtight container and/or in the freezer for future use.
- Dough thickness makes a difference. Roll your dough to a consistent thickness to ensure even baking and decorating; 3/8" is ideal. Using Mom's recipe has brought our family the best results; the secret is in sour cream and chilling your dough, but you can chill while it's in the fridge, too!
- Freeze your cookies before decorating. The icing will set faster and prevent the colors from bleeding into each other.
- Design your cookies before you begin. Plan out your designs ahead of time so you know what colors and techniques you'll need.
- Take your time. Decorating cookies can be a time-consuming process, but rushing can lead to mistakes and frustration.
- Ensure your dough is even. Use a rolling pin with thickness guides or rolling pin rings to help you achieve an even thickness.
- Use the right consistency of icing. Different techniques require different consistencies of icing. For example, flooding requires a thinner icing, while outlining requires a thicker icing. If you're struggling, mistakes can be corrected.
- Invest in quality tools. Good quality decorating tools can make a big difference in the outcome of your cookies. In addition to cutters, stencils and holders, look for piping bags, tips, and spatulas that are durable and easy to use.
- Practice, practice, practice. Cookie decorating is a skill that takes time and practice to master. Don't be discouraged if your first attempts don't turn out perfectly.
- Have fun! The most important tip of all is to enjoy the process. Cookie decorating is a fun and creative activity that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Usually when we say something frosts our cookies, we're using an expression that means we're upset. However, decorating cookies can be a creative outlet that can even turn into a business! Whether you're gathering the family to decorate for a special occasion, you're dipping your toes in the ahem, frosting, or you're thinking of going pro, give it a whirl and have some fun!
