Great Ideas

Isn’t it fun when the kids make creative projects from things around the house? Why not let them make tomorrow’s snack, tonight’s dessert, or a gift for Grandma? All it takes is sugar cookie dough from the refrigerated section at the store and some common ingredients from the kitchen! Here are two ways this art project helps mom. It’s easier to clean up because the dough is already made. You only have to use enough dough for today’s project. Place the unused dough back in the container to use in a couple of days.

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• Line the cookie sheet with parchment paper (waxed paper also works).
• Remind the kids to wash their hands before starting the cookie activity.
• Divide the dough in half and put one part back into the refrigerator. Break the other half into small pieces and put them in a bowl. Let them soften for about 15 minutes.

Five favorite items to add to the dough are raisins, chocolate chips, chocolate covered candies, chopped nuts, and chopped marshmallows. Four food-coloring drops to paint on cookies (use a small, clean art paintbrush): blue, green, red, and orange. Gently touch the tip of the brush to a drop of food coloring. Wipe excess off the brush and gently paint part of the cookie or make a design. Three tasty seasonings to mix in:

• 1 teaspoon ginger and 1/2 teaspoon cloves
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon maple flavoring

Mix the ingredients with the dough. Scoop out a tablespoon of dough. Roll it into a ball and place on the paper. The cookie will flatten out while it bakes. Bake for 12 minutes. Place the cookie sheet on a wire rack to cool.  Remove and put in a container or plastic bag until they are ready to be eaten. Yield: 12 – 15 2-inch cookies