5 Tips to Host your Very Own Cookie Decorating Party

I’ve noticed there are some who are really good at planning ahead. I’m not typically a part of that category. My deadlines are usually a last-minute finish and though we have plenty of ideas, concrete plans are usually more spontaneous, which means we firm them up at the last minute. 

This applies even to the things that happen every year, like our Advent calendar every December! We like to DIY a design every year and it’s SO much fun for our kids to open every day… meaning it’s totally worth it when I’m staying up late the night before to make it all happen. Because again, it wasn’t all planned ahead.

Last year we made our calendar up entirely of activities and it was one of the most fun yet! I love it when we can include activities for the whole family that build long lasting memories!!

Between a mix of simple, quick activities, like read a holiday story together, we also like to sprinkle in a few more complex, yet memory-making opportunities… like a cookie decorating party! The best part of this? We’ll pack up the extras to share with the neighbors or even drop off to a less-fortunate family to spread the holiday cheer! It’s fun for us all, and still teaches our kiddos about giving back to others.

A total win-win in my book. 

No matter how you make it happen, whether with your family or an open invite to friends, we’re sharing a few tips to make a cookie decorating party happen easily, so you can get right to the merry – and memory –making… even if you don’t have a ton of time to plan ahead.

5 Tips to Host your Very Own Cookie Decorating Party

Lay the foundation.

Roll out butcher block paper, craft paper or even newspaper to cover the table(s). This sets a great base that you can color on, write directions on, not worry about getting messy… and when it’s all over, roll up all the mess and toss! Easy set-up, easy clean-up. 

Pro tip: You can use a roll of butcher block paper for SO many things! From wrapping presents, to tablescapes and more. 

Bake the cookies ahead of time.

In order to decorate properly, cookies have to be well cooled. Probably the most “plan-ahead” part of this party. Even if you do it the morning of, make sure to bake up the cookies ahead of time so they’re ready to frost when the party begins! 

Busy mom tip: The fun of this cookie decorating party is just that… decorating the cookies together. So if you don’t have time, don’t sweat it; just pick up some plain cookies from a local bakery. Check your Publix bakery when you’re out picking up the toppings and snacks.

Provide LOTS of fun toppings.

Speaking of toppings, have a lot of them to choose from! For kids especially, the most fun part of decorating a cookie is seeing how much they can pile on top of it! From colored frostings to candies and sprinkles, to the unexpected like Rold Gold Pretzels or General Mills cereals… set it all out and let imaginations run wild! 

How cute are these pretzels for reindeer antlers?! Or using Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal to make shingles for a gingerbread house cookie would be so adorable too!

Have a snack available.

Let’s face it, we all love to snack. With a sweet-inducing cookie decorating party, I like to offer a few salty snacks to dig into. Of course, the pretzels on the table serve as a good option. We also love popcorn like the Smartfood Popcorn you can grab at Publix. And while you’re picking up a snack, don’t forget something to wash it all down. Capri Sun Organic Juice Drinks are a great choice, especially since you can place one at each station.

Create a space for each person’s station.

That brings us to our last tip, create a space for each person to create! My kids love when I set out a clear boundary for them, like a small tray or a large plate. They aren’t afraid to make a mess or create there, because it’s their own space. 

Pro tip: Add a small spatula, or even a spoon, for kids to spread out frosting.

There is nothing like creating memories! Publix, Kraft, General Mills and Pepsico’s website is helping you create lasting memories with family and friends this holiday season. Check it out for different tips & recipe ideas that will help you turn any crafting, cooking, baking or holiday moment into one you will remember with your friends and family.

Plus, to help you in creating these memories, you have a chance to win one of five (5) $100 Publix gift cards!! a Rafflecopter giveaway

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Publix.