Cookies for Santa: A Cookie-Decorating Party for Kids

{Sullivan’s Island, SC Lifestyle Photographer}

Every year I pull out my Expand-o-Pants, throw caution to the wind, buy a five-pound bag of sugar, and feverishly bake for the holidays.  My girls and I have always made homemade cookies for Santa (I hear he eschews high-fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated oils), and this year we decided to invite a few friends over to join in the fun.  I was inspired by the darling aqua and red North Pole Collection by Anders Ruff, and with the help of the amazing styling of Corrie Silvers of Teacups and Trucks, we pulled together a festive, sugary fête, complete with gourmet hot chocolate bar.

Now, don’t get me wrong: I am a chocolate chip cookie JUNKIE. However, cookies for Santa get a little more creative in our house (since chocolate chip cookies aren’t usually a great vehicle for sprinkles, which is a MUST in holiday desserts).  We had quite a variety of delectable treats (see links to recipes below), all lovingly decorated for the big guy in red.  After a sugar-filled afternoon (nine year-old girls throwing back shots of sprinkles?!) we were READY! Now if only I hadn’t forgotten the carrots for the reindeer . . .

Notice the quadruple-decker whoopie pie?!The mini pastry chefs!

Cookies for Santa Menu:

Gingerbread Whoopie Pies

No-Fail Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing

Chocolate-Dipped Pretzel Rods

Candy Cane Blossoms

Crock-Pot Hot Chocolate (*note: I used milk instead of water)