If you've ever thought about sharing your cookie decorating skills, you're in the right place! Learning how to teach a cookie decorating class isn’t just fun—it’s a great way to meet new people, grow your business, and make a little extra money on the side.

Whether you're an experienced baker or just love decorating cookies for the holidays, here are some practical, real-world tips to help you teach a cookie decorating class that’s smooth, stress-free, and successful.

Why Teach a Cookie Decorating Classes?

Teaching cookie classes gives you the chance to:

• Share your love of decorating

• Build connections in your community

• Attract new customers to your business

• Create new income streams, especially around the holidays

How to Teach a Cookie Decorating Class: 5 Tips for Getting Started

1. Pick the Right Place to Host

Before you can teach a cookie decorating class, you’ll need a space that fits your crowd. Great local options include:

• Coffee shops

• Wineries or breweries

• Craft stores like Hobby Lobby

• Churches or community centers

• Even your own home (just check your insurance!)

Don’t be shy—ask in person. Bring a sample cookie and explain how your class could bring more customers to their business. A little charm goes a long way!

2. Keep the Class Format Simple and Fun

A 2-hour class is the sweet spot. Here’s a simple outline you can follow:

• First 30 minutes: Welcome, intro, and piping practice

• Next 60–75 minutes: Step-by-step cookie decorating (about 15–20 minutes per cookie)

• Final 15 minutes: Photos, boxing up cookies, and sharing your next class details

Stick to 5 or 6 cookie designs to keep things manageable for beginners. If you're teaching repeat students, consider giving them step-by-step printed guides to follow along.

3. Plan Ahead with a Checklist and Schedule

One of the best ways to stay on top of everything is to create a cookie class checklist and timeline. This keeps you organized and reduces stress leading up to the big day.

A good checklist might include:

• Decorate a sample set of cookies the day before

• Print clip art and icing practice sheets

• Pack tools like icing bags, scissors, scribes, and towels

• Email your students a reminder with the time, date, and location

• Bring a giveaway or door prize for some extra fun

You don’t have to do it all at once—spread it out over a few weeks. That way, you can enjoy the process (and not stay up all night before the class!).

4. Spread the Word Early

To fill your seats, start promoting your class 3–4 weeks in advance. Here are a few ways to get the word out:

• Create a flyer in Canva and post it in local businesses

• Go live on Facebook or Instagram and show a cookie sneak peek

• Post videos (especially time-lapse decorating ones!)

• Create a Facebook event and invite the venue as a collaborator

• Use email platforms like FLODESK or Mailchimp to email your list

• Share in local food or mom Facebook groups

And don’t forget to make signing up easy with a link!

5. End Your Class with a Sweet Surprise

Before everyone heads out:

• Take a group photo with their cookies

• Tell them about your next class

• Offer a special discount if they sign up within 24 hours

Then, follow up the next day with a thank-you email—and maybe even share the cookie recipe you used.

FAQs About Cookie Decorating Classes

How long should a cookie decorating class be?

Most classes last about 2 hours. That gives plenty of time for instructions, decorating, and chatting without feeling rushed.

What should I include in a beginner cookie class?

Start with 5–6 cookies, offer piping practice, and provide step-by-step help. Keep things light, fun, and encouraging.

How far in advance should I promote my class?

Start advertising 3 to 4 weeks ahead of time to give people enough time to see it and sign up.

How many people should be in a cookie decorating class?

6–8 people is great for beginners. If you have a larger class, think about using a projector or bringing an assistant to help.

How can The Cheerful Baker help you prepare for your class?

The Cheerful Baker offers coordinated cookie cutter kits that are perfect to use for teaching.  

Final Thoughts

If you're ready to teach a cookie decorating class, these tips will help you feel confident and prepared. You don’t need to know everything—just take it one cookie at a time.