Melted Snowman Cookies

Introduction

These Melted Snowman Cookies are a playful and delicious way to celebrate the winter season. You’ll love how simple they are to assemble, using store-bought cookies as the perfect “melted” base for your marshmallow snowman. They’re a fantastic, no-stress project for a holiday party or a fun baking activity with kids.

This recipe and accompanying image were created with the help of AI for inspiration and guidance. Results may vary depending on ingredients, equipment, and technique.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 12 cookies

Ingredients

12 sugar cookies (we used store-bought refrigerated cookie dough)
12 marshmallows (regular size)
3 oz egg whites (about 3 eggs worth)
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
food coloring (in various colors. Brown/black, red, green, orange)

Instructions

Prepare your sugar cookies according to the package directions for the refrigerated cookie dough. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
While the cookies cool, make the royal icing. In a large, clean bowl, beat the egg whites and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until frothy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, about one cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated and smooth after each addition. Once all sugar is added, beat on high speed for 3-5 minutes until the icing is thick, glossy, and forms stiff peaks.
Spoon about two-thirds of the white icing into a separate bowl and cover with a damp cloth. This will be the “snow” base.
Divide the remaining one-third of the icing among several small bowls. Use the food coloring to tint these small portions for decoration: black or brown for eyes and buttons, orange for a carrot nose, red for a scarf, and green for earmuffs or a hat.
To assemble, spread a generous dollop of the reserved white icing onto the top of each cooled cookie. This is your “melted snow” puddle.
Place one marshmallow on its side onto the white icing puddle, pressing down gently so it adheres and looks like a melting snowman body.
Using the colored icings and a toothpick or small piping tip, decorate each marshmallow to create a face (eyes, nose), buttons down the front, and a scarf or other accessories. Let the cookies sit until the icing is completely set, about 2 hours.

Variations

Cookie Base Swap: Use large, soft gingerbread cookies instead of sugar cookies for a spiced flavor.
Snowman Style: Create “indoor” snowmen by placing the decorated marshmallow upright in the center of the icing puddle.
Double Melt: For a truly dramatic melt, cut some marshmallows in half at an angle before placing them on the icing.
Floral Snow: Use the tip of a knife or a fork to create textured swirls in the white icing “snow” puddle before adding the marshmallow.

Tips for Success

Ensure your cookies are completely cool before adding the icing, or the heat will cause the icing to run and the marshmallow to slide.
If your royal icing is too thick to spread easily, add water just a few drops at a time. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
For the cleanest detail work when decorating, use toothpicks to apply small dots of colored icing.
Allow the full drying time for the icing to set; this prevents smudging when storing or serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store the decorated cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. These cookies are not suitable for reheating, as the marshmallow and icing will melt.

FAQ

Can I use meringue powder instead of egg whites?

Yes, you can substitute the egg whites with an equal amount of meringue powder prepared according to the package directions for royal icing.

How far in advance can I make these?

They are best assembled and eaten within 1-2 days, as the marshmallow can start to dry out and the cookie may soften.

Is it safe to use raw egg whites?

If you have concerns about consuming raw egg whites, use pasteurized egg whites from a carton or the meringue powder substitution mentioned above.

My icing is too runny. What do I do?

Your icing likely needs more powdered sugar. Add it a tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition, until you achieve a stiff, spreadable consistency.

Can I use mini marshmallows?

Yes, you can use mini marshmallows to create a “partially melted” or smaller snowman effect. Simply arrange a few together on the icing puddle.

What’s the best way to color the icing?

Gel food coloring is highly recommended as it provides vibrant colors without thinning out the icing consistency like liquid food coloring might.