Painted Cookies

Flower Painted Heart cookie

I've been experimenting with painting my cookies and I must admit I'm a big fan of this new (to me) way of decorating. I love the effect, and since I have so many colour gels already, it's a simple matter to prepare a bunch of "paints" - a tiny amount of gel mixed with clear vanilla extract - and I'm off to the races .

This heart shaped cookie was my first painting attempt. I'm using an artist brush that I closely trimmed to a very fine tip. Lacking horribly in talent, I still have trouble controlling the end and more often than not, I'm creating random lines on the white background that can't be erased or hidden, especially when I'm starting with black. But, I feel I'm getting the hang of it, and I'm completely smitten with the results. 

Teapots

Teapot cookies

If there is a cutter that started the whole Bling Bakery idea, I'd say it was a teapot. Not actually this one; I have two cutters and lately I've been working primarily with the tall teapot pictured here because there is more room to manouver. But the squat teapot is equally cute. A large cookie, these beauties make a lovely gift, especially for yourself! And don't worry, they go great with coffee....

Teddy Bears

Teddy Bear cookie

I really love this teddy bear cutter. There have been a number of trial and errors at decorating, but I think simplest is best and most effective. They are a nice sized cookie (almost 3 inches) and make the perfect gift either alone or combined with a heart. Let someone know you're thinking of them and sending them hugs and love.

Hearts

Heart cookies

I have a number of heart shaped cutters in different sizes, and the more I work with this shape, the more I "love" it. It's a very versatile cookie that can be decorated in a number of ways but still carries the message of love. These floral hearts are an example of just that, making them the perfect gift for a friend, a spouse, or even a neighbour who you're missing. I've also paired this shape with animal cutters so you can send "love and hugs" to whomever you're missing. 

Butterflies

Butterfly cookie

I have two butterfly cutters, this is the smaller one. It still makes a good sized cookie - approximately 3 x 2 inches - and makes a beautiful accent on a plate of floral cookies. When thinking of a spring or summertime gift box, adding a few butterflies can really bring your gift to the next level.  

Easter Cookies

Chick cookie, Sheep cookie,
Rabbit cookie

 Easter cookies make a great gift! They are a little different from the traditional chocolates, and in many ways are more fitting for those of us who have outgrown the candy phase but will NEVER outgrow the cookie phase.

This year I did sheep, rabbits, carrots and eggs. The little chicks were extra treats included in the gift boxes. 

Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Everyone has their favourite chocolate chip cookie recipe. 

Except me. 

I've tried countless recipes over the years but the results were always ho hum. Good, yes. Edible, yes. But not stunning. Not "bakery" quality, not show-stoppers and definitely not sock removers (as in knock your socks off). Even the Mrs. Field's recipe that is so famous didn't tick all the boxes for me. 

So when my son found a chocolate chip cookie recipe that he wanted to try, I kept my eye-roll to myself and enthusiastically told him "Sure".