Okay, so I know I’m not the only one who isn’t quite ready for Christmas. If you’re still assembling treats and decorations, here’s one last easy DIY idea you can finish in no time. I completed this project start to finish—including photos and clean up—during a single nap, so when I say quick, I mean it. Ice cream cones get a coat of shimmering sanding sugar and become elegant, edible decorations: Sparkling Christmas Trees! They’re perfect for topping cupcakes and cakes, or you can arrange a cluster on a cake stand or serving tray for an instant holiday centerpiece.
Here’s how to make them.
Sparkling Christmas Tree Toppers
Tools and ingredients:
Ice cream cones (assorted sizes)
White candy melts or white chocolate coating
Sanding sugar, sparkling sugar, sugar pearls or sprinkles of your choice
Instructions:
- Melt the white candy coating according to package directions, stirring until smooth and lump-free.
- Dip each ice cream cone into the melted coating. If your bowl is shallow, roll the cone on its side to coat it evenly. Allow excess coating to drip back into the bowl.
- While the coating is still wet, sprinkle on sanding sugar, sugar pearls, or your chosen decorations. Hold the cone over a bowl or rest it on two fingers to avoid fingerprints and to catch excess sprinkles for reuse. Continue sprinkling until the cone is fully covered.
- Place the coated cones on parchment or wax paper and let them set until firm. You can touch up any missed spots before the coating hardens. Once set, the cones are solid enough to stand and can be used immediately as cake or cupcake toppers.
Tip: Sprinkle the cones over a small bowl to catch and reuse extra sugar or sprinkles. For waffle cones, trim a little off the bottom so they sit flat before you coat them, ensuring they stand upright when dry.
Whether you use these to finish off homemade bake goods, dress up store-bought treats, or keep kids entertained with a festive craft, these ice cream cone Sparkling Christmas Trees are a simple, charming addition to your holiday table. Stay tuned for the next installment of the 12 Cakes of Christmas series—Cake #10 is coming soon!