Meringue Cookie Topiary

From a distance, this edible topiary looks like a snow-bedecked little tree. Up close? Chocolate and vanilla meringue cookies are better than anything in Santa's bag!  This amazing Christmas decoration is great for Christmas morning and makes a wonderful hostess gift if you're going to see friends or family.  Present these delcious cookies in this fun arrangement for a Christmas decoration that tastes as good as it looks!

Materials:

• 1 15"x4" STYROFOAM™ Brand Foam Cone
• Meringue cookies, chocolate and vanilla
• Pre-made icing
• 1 tube fondant icing
• 1 can light or whipped canned icing
• Table knife
• Water basin
• Paper towels
• Red acrylic paint, medium flat paintbrush, disposable palette (paint must be food safe) (optional)

Instructions:

1. If desired, paint foam cone red; let dry completely.
    
2. Follow package directions to prepare pre-made icing tube for use. If making own icing, combine 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar with a few teaspoons of water in small bowl to a spreadable consistency. If icing is too thick, add more water; too thin, add more sugar.
    
3. Spread small amount of icing onto back of each chocolate cookie before pressing to foam surface in spiral pattern. Refer to photo as placement guide, and check spacing as you go to be sure there's room for a second stripe in alternating color. Cover remaining cone surface with vanilla cookies in same way.