7 Decorating Techniques

Applying Icing
You can use white Royal Icing alone or add food-coloring paste. For deep red, start with 2 teaspoons per cup of icing, then keep adding until you reach the desired color. Remember: You can't take away color if you add too much paste at once. To apply the icing, spread it onto the cookies using the back of a spoon.

Piping
Fill a resealable plastic bag halfway with icing, push out the excess air, and seal. Snip off a corner to create a small hole and squeeze from the top to force the icing down. Using your other hand to guide the bag as you work, squeeze with consistent pressure for fluid and unbroken lines. Practice on parchment paper first to get the hang of it.

Stenciling
Use items in your kitchen to create unique designs. A slotted spatula makes a good stencil. Just place it over the cookie and sift some confectioners' sugar or cocoa powder over it. Then carefully lift off the stencil to avoid smudging.

Dipping
Place a bowl full of Chocolate Glaze on parchment paper so that after you've dipped the cookie, you can put it down on the paper to dry without creating a mess on your countertop.

Drizzling
Hold a cookie over the bowl of melted chocolate (for less mess). Using a fork, scoop up some chocolate and wave it over the cookie. You can use a simple back-and-forth motion for straight lines or a circular motion for a fancier design.

Sandwich Cookies
If you want a cookie with a hole in the middle, cut it out before baking. Use tools that you already own, such as a pastry tip or the rim of a drinking glass. The baking process will set the shape.

Putting Sandwiches Together
Spread a spoonful of preserves onto a cooled cookie and place another cookie on top to make a sandwich. This is where you can get creative. Use two cookies of varying size, or make the sandwich with a cookie with a hole in the middle so the filling shows through.