Melted Snowman Cookies

Introduction

You can bring a touch of wintry whimsy to your kitchen with these Melted Snowman Cookies. They combine the ease of store-bought dough with the fun of creative decoration, making them a perfect project for bakers of any level. The result is a charming and delicious treat that captures the playful spirit of a melting snowman.

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

Preheat your oven and bake the 12 sugar cookies according to the package directions for the refrigerated dough. Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack.
While the cookies cool, make the royal icing. In a large, clean bowl, combine the 3 oz of egg whites and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat on medium speed until frothy.
Gradually add the 4 cups of powdered sugar to the egg white mixture, beating on low speed until combined and then on medium-high speed for 3-5 minutes until the icing is thick, smooth, and forms stiff peaks.
Divide the white icing into separate small bowls. Use the food coloring to tint small portions for decoration: brown/black for eyes and buttons, red for scarves, green for earmuffs, and orange for carrot noses. Leave the majority of the icing white.
To assemble, spoon a generous pool of the white icing onto the top of each cooled cookie, spreading it slightly to look like melted snow.
Place a marshmallow on top of the wet icing on each cookie, positioning it to look like a melting snowman head and body.
Immediately use the colored icings to decorate the marshmallow “snowman.” Pipe on eyes, a mouth, and buttons. Add a scarf, an orange carrot nose, and any other details like earmuffs or stick arms.
Let the cookies sit until the royal icing is completely dry and hard, at least 2-4 hours, before serving or storing.

Variations

For a different texture, lightly toast the marshmallows with a kitchen torch before placing them on the icing.
Create a scene by using the colored icing to pipe little hats, puddles, or snowflakes on the cookie around the marshmallow.
Instead of a full pool, pipe white icing in a wavy line around the base of the marshmallow to look like a smaller melt puddle.
For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free sugar cookie dough.

Tips for Success

Ensure your bowl and beaters are completely grease-free for the royal icing to achieve proper stiff peaks.
If the icing is too thick, add a few drops of water. If it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.
Cover icing bowls with a damp cloth while you work to prevent it from drying out and crusting over.
Use toothpicks to help manipulate and place the marshmallows if they are sticky.

Storage & Reheating

FAQ

Can I use meringue powder instead of raw egg whites?

Yes, you can substitute the egg whites with meringue powder prepared according to the package instructions for royal icing.

My royal icing is too runny. What did I do wrong?

You may have added the powdered sugar too quickly or not beaten it long enough. Beat for a full 3-5 minutes after adding all the sugar, and add more powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time until it thickens.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

You can bake the cookie bases a day in advance. For best results, decorate them the day you plan to serve them so the marshmallows stay fresh.

Are these safe to eat with 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.

What if I don’t have piping bags?

You can use small zip-top bags with a tiny corner snipped off, or apply details carefully with a toothpick.

Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough?

Absolutely. Use your favorite rolled sugar cookie recipe, cut into circles, and bake until just set and lightly golden. Let cool completely before decorating.