Decorating Unbaked Cookies

1. Position the unbaked cookies on a cookie sheet. Allow 1 to 2 inches between cookies to prevent them from spreading and baking together.

2. Place a cookie cutter of equal or smaller size over cutout cookies before pouring nonpareils on each treat. Alternatively, use tweezers to drop nonpareils onto the cookies to create designs such as stars, stripes or other shapes.

3. Press the nonpareils into the cookie dough to help them stick. Alternatively, brush each cookie with beaten egg whites before adding the candies to affix them to the dough.

4. Bake your decorated cookies according to the recipe instructions. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool.

Decorating Already Baked Cookies

1. Apply icing to the cookies, using a piping bag or spreading it with a spoon or knife. Spread the icing in an even layer over the cookie, using an offset spatula.

2. Add nonpareils to the cookie. Cover the cookie completely and then shake off the excess candies. Alternatively, create designs. For example, if you're making a candy cane cookie, layer stripes of red and white nonpareils. Use tweezers to drop individual candies onto the cookies to create flowers, hearts or other designs.

3. Place the cookies on a flat surface and let them dry for about 12 hours or until the icing sets and hardens.