The Best Cookie Decorating Books for Beginners

Discover the ultimate guide to mastering cookie decorating with this curated list of top-rated cookie decorating books for beginners.

You’re scrolling social media for inspiration for your son’s dinosaur-themed birthday party. And there it is. A perfectly decorated dinosaur-shaped cookie, beautifully and elaborately decorated down to the teeth and tail. “Easy,” it says. “Psssht,” you think. 

Although your first few attempts are bound to be less than picture-perfect, learning a few basic cookie decorating techniques can take you a long way. Once you get started, you may find yourself looking for excuses to whip up a batch to share. And there’s no sweeter creative outlet. 

When getting started, there are literally thousands of books and blogs about cookie decorating. A maze of information. Here’s a list of some of the top-rated and well-loved cookie decorating books for beginners. 

Best-Loved Cookie Decorating Books for Beginners

1. “The Complete Photo Guide to Cookie Decorating” by Autumn Carpenter: Autumn Carpenter’s book is a visual delight, offering step-by-step instructions accompanied by vibrant images. It covers everything from basic techniques to advanced designs. Her years of cookie decorating experience shine through in this book.
2. “Cookie Craft: From Baking to Luster Dust, Designs and Techniques for Creative Cookie Occasions” by Valerie Peterson and Janice Fryer: Valerie Peterson and Janice Fryer’s book is the perfect book for those looking to master cookie decorating for various occasions. With clear instructions, simple techniques, expert tips, and inventive designs, it’s a must-have for beginners.
3. “Decorating Cookies: 60+ Designs for Holidays, Celebrations & Everyday” by Bridget Edwards: Bridget Edwards’ book is a treasure trove of cookie decorating ideas for every occasion imaginable. With detailed instructions and creative designs, it’s sure to inspire beginners to get baking.
4. “Creative Cookie Decorating” by Emily Hutchinson: Professional cookie baker Emily Hutchinson’s book offers innovative techniques and unique designs to take your cookie decorating skills to the next level. It’s a must-read for aspiring cookie artists.
5. “Cookie Class: 120 Irresistible Decorating Ideas for Any Occasion” by Jenny Keller: Jenny Keller’s book is packed with a plethora of decorating ideas suitable for any occasion. With easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a great beginner’s guide for someone looking to impress with a beautifully crafted cookie.
6. “Cookie Canvas: Creative Designs for Every Occasion” by Amber Spiegel: Amber Spiegel’s book is a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of cookie decorating. With detailed instructions and stunning designs, it’s a must-read for beginners.
7. “Cookie Remix: An Incredible Collection of Treats Inspired By Sodas, Candies, Ice Creams, Donuts, and More” by Megan Porta: Megan Porta’s book offers a unique twist on traditional cookie decorating, drawing inspiration from various sweet treats. It’s perfect for beginners looking to experiment with unconventional flavors and designs.
8. “Cookie Swap: Creative Treats to Share Throughout the Year” by Julia M. Usher: Julia M. Usher’s book provides a plethora of creative cookie ideas perfect for sharing with friends and family year-round. With delicious recipes and decorating tips for amazing cookies, it’s an excellent choice for beginners.

With the right guidance and resources, anyone can master the art of cookie decorating. Whether you’re a complete novice or looking to expand your skills, these books provide valuable insights and inspiration, not to mention step-by-step instructions. So, grab your apron and get ready to have so much fun creating edible works of art!

Cookie Decorating Supplies

Before diving into cookie decorating, it’s helpful to have the right cookie-making supplies at your disposal. Here are some basic supplies you’ll need to make beautiful cookies:

1. Cookie cutters in various shapes and sizes
2. Piping bags and tips (I like these disposable decorating bags)
3. Cookie embellishments, such as fun sprinkles, colored sugars, non-pareils, and edible gold leaf
4. Food coloring gels, powders, or paste for vibrant hues
5. Rolling pin for achieving the perfect cookie thickness (there are lots of fancy rolling pins on the marke, but I like this basic wood rolling pin)
6. Edible ink markers for adding fine details

Tip: Consider this Cookie Decorating Set to get you started!

Cookie-Decorating Skills Covered

As a beginner, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with fundamental techniques. Some of the many techniques covered in these books (with step-by-step directions) include:

1. Baking the perfect cookie, with complete instructions 
2. Royal icing basic flooding for seamless backgrounds
3. Piping techniques
4. Using color and texture
5. Stenciling for quick and impressive patterns
6. Fondant decorations for three-dimensional elements

Cookie-Appropriate Special Occasions

​Let’s face it. Every occasion is a cookie occasion. 

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