11 South Dakota Mount Rushmore Christmas Cookie Recipes From Black Hills

Mount Rushmore Sugar Cookies

Mount Rushmore Sugar Cookies are delightful, festive treats that celebrate the holiday spirit while showcasing one of South Dakota’s most iconic landmarks. These soft, buttery cookies can be shaped and decorated to resemble the faces of the four presidents carved into Mount Rushmore, making them a fun and creative activity for the whole family during the Christmas season.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that the cookies will bake evenly and have the right texture.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This mix will provide the structure for your cookies.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and blend until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
7. Roll and Cut the Dough: Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes resembling the Mount Rushmore faces or other holiday-themed designs.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the cut-out cookies on ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool the Cookies: After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Decorate: Once the cookies are cooled, decorate them using royal icing and powdered sugar. You can use food coloring to create different colors for your icing, making your Mount Rushmore Sugar Cookies festive and visually appealing.

Enjoy your Mount Rushmore Sugar Cookies as a sweet reminder of your holiday celebrations!

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Black Hills Chocolate Mint Cookies

Black Hills Chocolate Mint Cookies are a decadent holiday treat that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with a revitalizing hint of mint. These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season, embodying the spirit of the Black Hills of South Dakota. With a beautiful appearance and an irresistible flavor, these cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This confirms that your cookies will bake evenly.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This mixture will provide the foundation for your cookies.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar. Beat the mixture until it is light and fluffy, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Extracts: Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract for that revitalizing mint flavor.
5. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to some of the dough to create a festive look.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops appear slightly cracked.
9. Cool the Cookies: After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Optional Dusting: If desired, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness and a decorative finish.

Enjoy these delicious Black Hills Chocolate Mint Cookies as a delightful addition to your holiday festivities!

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Presidential Peanut Butter Blossoms

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This guarantees that your cookies bake evenly for the perfect texture.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of creamy peanut butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually taking about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate 1 large egg into the mixture, mixing until fully combined. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and blend well.
5. Combine with Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Shape the Cookies: Using your hands, roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls. Place the dough balls onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will look a bit underbaked in the center, which is perfect for soft, chewy cookies.
8. Add Hershey’s Kisses: Remove the cookies from the oven, and while they are still warm, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, your Presidential Peanut Butter Blossoms are ready to be enjoyed. Share them with family and friends, or package them as delightful gifts!

This timeless cookie recipe is sure to bring joy to your holiday gatherings!

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Rocky Road Cookie Bars

Rocky Road Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the chewy goodness of cookies with the rich flavors of chocolate, marshmallows, and nuts. These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. They are easy to make and are sure to be a hit with friends and family!

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Melt the Butter: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the ½ cup of unsalted butter. This should take about 30-45 seconds in the microwave. Let it cool slightly before proceeding.
3. Combine Sugars and Eggs: In the large bowl with melted butter, add 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar. Whisk them together until smooth. Then, add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ⅓ cup of cocoa powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together to blend.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, ½ cup of chopped nuts, and 1 cup of mini marshmallows until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Spread Batter in Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly, ensuring it reaches the corners.
8. Bake the Cookie Bars: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
9. Cool and Slice: Once done, remove the pan from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, lift them out using the parchment paper (if used) and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice them into squares or rectangles.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Your Rocky Road Cookie Bars are now ready to be enjoyed! Share them with friends and family, or store them in an airtight container for later. These bars are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

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Black Hills Cherry Almond Cookies

Black Hills Cherry Almond Cookies are a delightful twist on classic butter cookies, incorporating the sweet and tart flavors of cherries along with a hint of almond. Perfect for holiday baking or to share with loved ones, these cookies offer a satisfying texture and a beautiful burst of color. The combination of buttery goodness with fruity and nutty notes make them a unique treat that is sure to impress!

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the Eggs and Extract: Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract and mix until combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt throughout the flour.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped dried cherries, ½ cup of sliced almonds, and if desired, ½ cup of white chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
7. Scoop the Dough: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart as they will spread slightly while baking.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
9. Cool on Rack: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy: Once cooled, enjoy these scrumptious Black Hills Cherry Almond Cookies with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea!

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Mount Rushmore Gingerbread Men

Mount Rushmore Gingerbread Men are a festive and fun holiday treat that embodies the spirit of Christmas while celebrating one of America’s most iconic landmarks. With the warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, these cookies offer a delightful taste of tradition. Perfect for decorating with icing to create your favorite Mount Rushmore presidential faces, they are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face during the holiday season!

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare Your Mise en Place: Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In another large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ¾ cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes.
4. Incorporate Egg, Molasses, and Vanilla: Add 1 large egg, ½ cup of molasses, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix – the dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to roll out.
7. Roll and Cut Shapes: Once chilled, remove the dough from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about ¼ inch thick. Use gingerbread man-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm. The cookies will continue to set as they cool, so be careful not to overbake.
9. Cool and Decorate: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate with royal icing to create Mount Rushmore faces or your favorite designs.

Enjoy your festive Mount Rushmore Gingerbread Men this holiday season!

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South Dakota Spritz Cookies

South Dakota Spritz Cookies are delightful butter cookies that are as fun to make as they are to eat! These classic holiday treats are typically shaped using a cookie press, allowing for various festive designs. Topped with colorful sprinkles or adorned with icing, Spritz Cookies are a wonderful addition to holiday cookie platters that celebrate the season with sweetness and charm.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
5. Add Food Coloring (Optional): If you wish to color your dough, add a few drops of food coloring and mix until the desired color is achieved.
6. Using the Cookie Press: Fill your cookie press with the prepared dough, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Carefully press the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, creating shapes like stars, trees, or your preferred festive designs.
7. Decorate the Cookies: Before baking, sprinkle colored sprinkles on top of the cookies for added festivity.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as they can bake quickly!
9. Cool: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for a couple of minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Enjoy: Once cooled, enjoy your festive South Dakota Spritz Cookies, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season!

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S’mores Mount Rushmore Treats

S’mores Mount Rushmore Treats are a fun and creative twist on the classic campfire treat, melding the flavors of graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate into an edible tribute to Mount Rushmore. These no-bake treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or family activities, as they allow everyone to participate in building their own dessert masterpiece while enjoying a touch of South Dakota’s iconic national monument.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, break the graham crackers into small pieces. Set aside a handful for topping later.
2. Melt the Chocolate and Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and ½ cup of butter. Heat in the microwave in short increments, stirring in between, until melted and smooth. Be careful to not overheat.
3. Mix Ingredients: Once the chocolate and butter are melted and combined, add 2 cups of mini marshmallows to the bowl. Stir until the marshmallows are well coated in the chocolate mixture.
4. Add the Vanilla and Powdered Sugar: Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and then gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar. Stir until the mixture reaches a thick, dough-like consistency.
5. Shape the Treats: Line a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches) with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the dish, pressing it down firmly with your hands or a spatula to create an even layer. Allow it to set for about 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for about 15 minutes to firm up.
6. Cut into Shapes: Once the mixture is set, use a knife or cookie cutter to cut the treats into squares or Mount Rushmore-inspired shapes. Be creative!
7. Add Details: Melt the dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, using short increments until melted. Use a piping bag or a fork to drizzle the melted dark chocolate onto the treats to create the Mount Rushmore faces.
8. Decorate with Edible Eyes: Once the chocolate drizzle has set a bit, place small edible eyes on the chocolate to represent the facial features of the Mount Rushmore sculptures.
9. Final Touches: Sprinkle the reserved graham cracker pieces on top for added texture and as a nod to the traditional s’mores.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once fully decorated, cut the treats into individual pieces (if not already done) and serve them to your guests. Enjoy this sweet representation of South Dakota’s iconic landmark!

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Pinecone Pecan Cookies

Pinecone Pecan Cookies are delightful holiday treats that combine the nutty flavor of pecans with a buttery dough, shaped into festive pinecone designs. These cookies are perfect for decorating and sharing during the Christmas season, offering both a charming presentation and a delicious taste that will delight friends and family alike.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
2. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined. Make sure the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Fold in the Pecans: Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
5. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to shape the cookies.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Shape the Cookies: Once the dough is chilled, use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of dough. Roll each portion into a rough pinecone shape (a tapered oval) and then press whole pecans into the top to mimic pinecone scales. Arrange the whole pecans in rows to resemble a pinecone.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool and Dust: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If desired, dust with granulated sugar once they are cool for a festive touch.
10. Enjoy: Once fully cooled, enjoy your Pinecone Pecan Cookies with family and friends, or package them up to share!

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Frosted Maple Leaf Cookies

Frosted Maple Leaf Cookies are delightful and festive treats that capture the essence of the season with their signature maple flavor and beautiful leaf shape. These cookies are not only perfect for holiday gatherings but also make great gifts and decorations, added with a sweet and colorful frosting that makes them irresistibly delicious.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in 1 large egg and 1/4 cup of maple syrup. If desired, add 1 teaspoon of maple extract for an extra boost of flavor. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
4. Mix Dry Into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Chill the Dough: Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. This step helps prevent spreading during baking and makes it easier to handle.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
7. Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a maple leaf cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Make the Frosting: In a bowl, mix 2 cups of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. You can also divide the frosting into smaller bowls and add red and yellow food coloring to create fall-inspired shades.
10. Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, use a knife or piping bag to decorate each cookie with frosting, creating beautiful designs that resemble colorful maple leaves.
11. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the frosting to set before serving or packaging. These frosted maple leaf cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations or as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.

Mount Rushmore Decorated Cookie Platter

Mount Rushmore Decorated Cookie Platter: The Mount Rushmore Decorated Cookie Platter is a festive and creative way to celebrate the holiday season. Inspired by the iconic monument, this cookie platter features sugar cookies decorated to resemble the faces of the four presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. This delightful sweet treat is perfect for holiday gatherings, and kids and adults alike will enjoy the imaginative and delicious cookies that bring some holiday cheer!

Cooking Steps:

1. Make the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 3-5 minutes. Add in 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
3. Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to make it easier to roll out and cut.
5. Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut out shapes of the presidents’ faces, or use a round cutter for a simpler design.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a couple of minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Icing: In a mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of powdered sugar with 3-4 tablespoons of milk to create a smooth icing. You can use royal icing for a firmer consistency or a simple glaze for a softer touch.
9. Decorate the Cookies: Divide the icing into several bowls and color them with food coloring to create different shades for the faces and backgrounds. Use piping bags or a small spatula to decorate the cookies, giving them unique expressions to resemble the presidents. Allow the icing to dry before moving on to display them.
10. Arrange the Cookie Platter: Once decorated and dried, arrange your Mount Rushmore cookies on a festive platter. Serve at your holiday gathering or give them as gifts, spreading the joy of the season! Enjoy your delicious and creative Mount Rushmore Decorated Cookie Platter.