Now that spring has sprung, it is time to prepare for all of those spring occasions that sneak up on us. Whether you're preparing for Easter, Mother's Day, confirmation, or graduation, you usually have some sort of cookies made up to compliment your feast. This year, add a new dimension to your cookies by creating 3D layers. It's fun and easy you won't believe the reaction you will receive form your guests!

Start with your favorite sugar cookie recipe. Choose the cookie cutters that you would like to use (larger ones work best) according to the occasion. If you are unable to locate the perfect cutter because your cookie idea is pretty unique (...and the unique ideas are usually the best!), do not give up. Draw out your design and trace it onto wax paper. Cut out your template. After rolling out the dough, place your template on the dough and trace around it with a knife. Bake your cookies and let cool. Dip each cookie in white or chocolate coating. This will give your cookie an added bit of flavor. You can use colored summer coating also. Let the coating dry at room temperature and then using royal icing and the decorating tips of your choice (depending on what you wish to do) begin decorating your cookies. Add candies, such as jelly beans, chocolate eggs wrapped in foil, edible glitter, dragees or sprinkles to your icing when it is still wet to give your cookie dimension. Allow the icing to dry thoroughly before you put cookies away. Arrange your cookies on a tray when it's party time and watch your guests' faces light up when they see how beautifully creative your cookies are!