Polar Bear Cookies

Polar Bear Cookies are adorable, fun-to-make treats that are perfect for winter celebrations and holiday gatherings. These cookies, shaped and decorated to look like polar bears, bring a touch of whimsy to any dessert table. With their soft texture and sweet icing accents, they’re as delightful to eat as they are to create.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

For the Decorations:

• White candy melts or white chocolate chips (for coating)
• Mini chocolate chips (for eyes and nose)
• Small black candies or icing (for nose)
• Mini marshmallows (for ears)
• Optional sprinkles or colored sugar for accents

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Scoop 1-tablespoon portions of dough and roll them into balls for the polar bear heads. Place on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
3. For ears, roll smaller pieces of dough into mini balls and attach them to the top of each larger ball, slightly pressing to adhere.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the centers appear slightly soft. Avoid overbaking.
5. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Decorate the Cookies

1. Melt the white candy melts or white chocolate chips according to the package instructions.
2. Dip each cookie into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Use a fork to lift the cookie, allowing the excess chocolate to drip off. Place on wax paper or a cooling rack.
3. While the chocolate is still wet, attach mini chocolate chips for eyes and a small black candy or dot of icing for the nose. Use mini marshmallows to create ears by sticking them at the top of the cookies.
4. Let the decorations set completely before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: These cookies are great for holiday parties or as a festive gift in a decorative tin.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and decorate before serving.

1. Can I use premade sugar cookies for this recipe?

Yes, premade or store-bought sugar cookies work well if you’re short on time. Simply shape them into rounds and proceed with the decoration steps.

2. How do I prevent the candy coating from cracking?

Allow the cookies to cool completely before dipping, and ensure the melted chocolate is not too hot. Room temperature ingredients work best.

3. Can I add other decorations?

Absolutely! Use edible glitter, colorful sprinkles, or add scarves with icing for a festive touch.

4. What if I don’t have mini marshmallows for ears?

You can use white chocolate chips or small pieces of fondant as an alternative for the ears.

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