Simplest Christmas Sugar Cookies

I know... REALLY?  Is it still appropriate to say "shut up" like Stacey London?  If cookies could be fashionable... oh wait, these are!

 

Decorate Your Christmas Tree in 5 Steps

Mini Gingerbread House Cookies

We just have to share how these originated.  Everyone (and maybe even their dog) has cookie cutter sets with too many holiday-themed cookie cutters that never get used.  Well, this Christmas we are putting one of those never-before-seen-on-this-blog shapes from Halloween to good use.  Yes, that's right, Halloween. We used what was intended to be a haunted house as a frilly little gingerbread house.  Then we even came up with a fun way to make it look like snow melted on it.  Check it out!

Christmas Felt Chain Garland

Christmas Cookies

` decide on only a few cookie cutter shapes

` choose modern sprinkles that are big and simple

` avoid colored, fine sugar sprinkles

` use melt and dip frosting method (see below)

` save time by making cookies early

` if making ahead of time, par freeze frosted cookies on cookie sheets

` then package cookies together in plastic bag, tin, or tupperware

` par freezing will protect cookies from damage when packaged

 ` this method works on gingerbread cookies too

Materials

the best sugar cookies ever
maybe even throw in some gingerbread cookies
buttercream frosting
food coloring
sprinkles

Directions

Place dollop of frosting on a small plate and microwave for 4-5 seconds.  Stir to make sure frosting is smoothly-melted.  Place cookie flat in melted frosting and move it around carefully to make sure all appendages are covered.  Pull cookie up as straight as possible, allowing some excess frosting to drip off.  Then flip cookie quickly and shake it back-and-forth to allow frosting to settle in a flat and smooth fashion.  Sprinkle cookies before frosting hardens.  You can re-melt the same frosting over and over again.  Just add dollops as needed.

Note:  Try this melt and dip frosting method a few times before giving up.  Once you master the method, the process moves quickly.

Frame Your Christmas Wrap!

` fill your frames with holiday gift wrap

` top with tinsel, grinch garland, or this advent calendar

Think Grinch and Felt for Christmas!

Materials

4 pieces of felt

wired ribbon

pom chain (from Michaels)

needle and thread

Directions

Hold 9 x 11 inch felt in landscape position.  Cut vertically down the middle.  Then, cut each half into 5 equal strips.  Each felt piece should yield 10 strips in total.  Tie each strip into a knot.  Use the needle and thread to string knotted-felt strips together.  Embellish with bows and balls.