Another food related craft from the life of David. I cut out the cookies the night before; the kids filled, baked and decorated the plate during class.
You need one batch sugar cookie dough, prepared (I used the Betty Crocker mix, immortalized in the
"he's gonna leave!" commercial) and one bag Jolly Rancher candies, separated by flavor.
Beforehand, make and chill cookie dough.
Grind Jolly Ranchers in food processor and store separated colors in plastic bags.
Roll out the dough and cut into crown shapes. I did a rectangle about the size of a small card envelope, then cut it in half with a zigzag pattern to make two crowns. Place on foil-lined cookie sheets. Using small shaped cookie cutters or the top to a soda bottle, cut small shapes out for jewels. Using a small spoon, have the kids fill in the holes with powdered candy.
For best results, get as little as possible on the cookie dough and pile up a small heap in the center. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and cool at least 10 minutes; you can speed this process by taking the foil off the cookie sheet. Make sure candy jewels are hardened, then carefully remove the cookie.
Note: these cookies can look better than they taste; the melted candy can take on a burned, bitter flavor, so be forewarned. Making them is still fun for the kids.