sweet nothings

I love sweets!  Candy (hello, candy buffet at my wedding and in my house), cake (coffee cake as a light snack...a few times a day) cupcakes!  I also love coming up with new ideas to put a little personal touch on the things I make.  I saw an idea online for making turkey (not the flavor...gross) cupcakes.  Those, I will be trying and then sharing closer to Thanksgiving.  Though, the technique they use was brilliant!  I wanted to share it with you because it could be used for so many different things.

You will need:
Almond Bark (chcolate used for candy making, found in the baking isle)
Sandwich size plastic bags
Microwavable container
Spoon
Wax Paper

First, you need to make an icing bag.  Simply cut a corner of the plastic bag off.  The higher up on the bag you cut the larger the hole will be, meaning more will come out.  The closer to the corner you cut the smaller the hole will be, meaning the amount that comes out will be smaller.  The Almond Bark comes in squares.  Put one square into the microwavable container and microwave for 30 seconds.  Stir the chocolate and if it needs, microwave for a little longer.  You want the chocolate to be completely melted, like icing.  Spoon the melted chocolate into the plastic bag and squeeze it all into the cut corner.

Now, pipe whatever you would like onto the sheet of wax paper.  Helpful Hint: line a cookie sheet with wax paper to make it easier to transport your garnish creations.  Try using white chocolate as well to add some interest.  Once you have your creations piped, place them in the freezer to harden.  They really only need a few minutes in the freezer to harden fully.  Take the candies out of the freezer and peel off of the wax paper.  They will come off very easily.  If you made small, delicate designs be sure to be gentle.  You can store the candies in an air tight container at room temperature.  If you don't like how they turned out, melt them back down and start over!
I was practicing for my thanksgiving cupcakes but you can make practically any shape you want.  I played around a bit with the chocolate and tried some different designs out.  These yummy candies could be served alone or used to garnish cakes, cupcakes, pies, drinks, ice cream, anything!  Let your imagination run wild with this SUPER easy idea.  Practice letters with children by making candies of the letter.  Monogram cupcakes or cookies for a special event or wedding.  Get inspired, create something yummy!