What type of cookies are best for decorating?

The best cookies for decorating depend on your preference and the desired outcome. Here are some popular options with their pros and cons:

For beginners:

* Sugar Cookies: These are the classic choice for cookie decorating. They are sturdy, hold their shape well, and are easy to work with.

* Pros: Versatile, forgiving, readily available recipes

* Cons: Can be a bit bland on their own, need to be chilled for a long time before decorating

* Shortbread Cookies: These cookies are buttery and crumbly, and can be rolled out thinly for intricate designs.

* Pros: Delicious flavor, holds details well

* Cons: Can be delicate, require careful handling, often need to be chilled for long periods

For intermediate decorators:

* Gingerbread Cookies: These cookies are flavorful and hold their shape well, making them ideal for intricate designs.

* Pros: Unique flavor, strong enough for complex designs

* Cons: Can be challenging to roll out, need to be chilled for a long time

* Oatmeal Cookies: The addition of oats gives these cookies a chewy texture that is ideal for decorating with frosting and candies.

* Pros: Chewy texture, good for holding decorations

* Cons: Can be difficult to cut out into intricate shapes

For advanced decorators:

* Biscotti: These cookies are firm and hold their shape well, making them perfect for detailed designs and painting.

* Pros: Hold their shape well, ideal for intricate work

* Cons: Can be time-consuming to bake, can be hard to decorate

* Linzer Cookies: These cookies have a delicate texture and a hint of almond flavor, making them perfect for sandwich cookies with a filling.

* Pros: Unique flavor, elegant appearance

* Cons: Can be delicate, require careful handling

Ultimately, the best cookie for decorating is the one that you enjoy working with the most. Experiment with different recipes and techniques to find your favorite!