I'm really happy with how these turned out. They are Melted Snowman Cookies. I first saw them posted last year on Stacy's Sweet Shop blog and bookmarked it so I would remember to try making them this year.I admit, I cheated a bit. I used Sugar Cookie mix instead of making my cookies from scratch.
I made the royal icing just as she suggested:
3 Tbsp. Wilton meringue powder (which can be found at craft stores like Michael's)
1 Lb. sifted confectioner's sugar
6 Tbsp. water
Just mix (a lot) until you get the icing to form peaks when you lift the beaters.
Just before it got to the "peak" stage, I went ahead and iced the cookies, while the icing was still a little thinner. Just put some in the middle of the cookie with a spoon and use the back of the spoon to spread over the cookie - letting some run over the sides a bit.
At this point, the icing can continued to be whipped until the peaks form, separated into smaller bowls and then add icing colors (such as blue, red and green) - make sure you keep the bowls covered with a damp towel to keep the icing from hardening before you can use it.
I didn't use the colored icing however (will explain that later).
Then you make the heads - put 4 or 5 large marshmallows in the microwave for just a few seconds (10) - they will start to puff - you MUST watch them - as soon as they begin to puff, remove them, butter your fingers a bit and put the marshmallow on the edge of the cookie and then smoosh it down.
Now you can use the colored icing to decorate with - if you don't have decorator bags and tips, just put in a sealed ziplock bag and cut a tiny hole in one corner and make the decorations for the eyes, mouth, buttons, etc.
I decided once again to take a shortcut on that and used decorating pens instead. They are markers made with food coloring instead of ink. Just make sure the icing is thoroughly dry and has hardened before using these.
They were the hit of the party and really pretty easy to make (especially with the shortcuts I used). Give them a try - they are fun!!
