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Cookie painting: A brushstroke of genius
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHELLE CURRAN OF MITCHIES MUNCHIES

Cookie painting: A brushstroke of genius

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KANSAS CITY, MO — Personalized desserts are all the rage right now, and hand-painted cookies are right in the middle of the action. Whether simple or intricate in design, these edible paint palettes offer a premium treat with a homemade feel. From corporate event catering to wedding party platters, painted cookies are a winning choice with customers.

Craft to Crumb partnered with Michelle Curran of Mitchies Munchies to demonstrate how to use food-grade charcoal and impression stamps to create custom cookies that celebrate every occasion.

Materials needed: Food-safe active charcoal, water cup, fine detail paint brush(es), impression letters/numbers, royal icing or fondant

Start with a baked cookie covered with royal icing or fondant.
Step 1: Start with a baked cookie covered with royal icing or fondant.
Step 2: Activate the charcoal with a small amount of water to create a thin paste. Pro tip: The consistency should be similar to mustard.
Step 2: Activate the charcoal with a small amount of water to create a thin paste. Pro tip: The consistency should be similar to mustard.
Step 3
Step 3: Paint the charcoal directly onto the impression letters. Lightly stamp to transfer. Repeat the process with impression pieces, as needed.
Step 4
Step 4: Dilute the charcoal paste with water to achieve a watercolor consistency. Use a single swipe motion to create an incomplete figure-eight for the graduation tassel.
Step 5
Step 5: Make a small circle where the lines intersect. Add a single line under the circle, then color it in. Use single swipe motions to create the tassel strands.
Step 6
Step 6: Feeling brave? Freehand a small mortar board by making an elongated diamond shape with a sideways number three underneath.
Final step
Ta-Da!

This story has been adapted from the May | Q2 2026 Craft to Crumb mini-mag. Read the full digital issue here.

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Craft to Crumb Staff

Craft to Crumb is the retail baking community's go-to source for inspiration and insight. Our editorial staff is dedicated to covering the latest news with transparency, authenticity and integrity. Have a tip for us? Reach out at info@crafttocrumb.com.

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