When it comes to icing cookies, Tena Banman of Winkler is nothing short of an expert. With years of practice and a keen eye for detail, she has mastered the art of turning simple sugar cookies into edible works of art. Her steady hand, creative designs, and technical know-how make her holiday treats as stunning as they are delicious.
When asked about her artistic talents, Tena humbly attributes her skills to dedication. “I’ve just practiced, and practice makes perfect,” she said. “I’ve watched lots of YouTube tutorials and just practiced—it’s fun and relaxing.”
Simple but delicious recipe
Tena’s sugar cookie recipe is straightforward, but the secret to her perfectly decorated cookies lies in the icing. “It’s meringue powder, icing sugar, and water,” Tena shared. Getting the right consistency is key: “Start with a pretty firm icing, then add water a little bit at a time—about 1/4 of a teaspoon—because if you add too much, you can’t go back.”
Decorating like a pro
Tena’s decorating tips include using piping bags with tiny openings. “The smaller the hole, the better, as long as you don’t have any clogging,” she advised. For finer details, she suggested using a toothpick: “You don’t need anything fancy.”
Her holiday-themed cookies featured Christmas trees with a snowy sparkle, mittens with a knitted pattern, gift boxes, and festive wreaths. “The mittens actually look like there’s a knitted pattern,” Tena explained, “The more pressure you apply to the piping bag, the thicker the line. Less pressure gives you a finer detail.”
Baking for fun and sharing
While Tena occasionally sells her cookies and cakes, she mostly bakes for fun and to share with friends and family. “It’s a hobby right now for myself,” she said, though her beautifully crafted treats certainly hint at professional-level talent.
Tena's sugar cookies prove that cookies aren’t just treats—they’re edible works of art, crafted with love, patience, and a sprinkle of festive magic.
