Chocolate Holiday Bears

1. 1

   Heat oven to 350F.

2. 2

   Beat first 4 ingredients in large bowl with mixer until blended.

3. 3

   Mix flour and baking soda; gradually add to pudding mixture, beating well after each addition.

4. 4

   Shape into ball.

5. 5

   Roll out dough on lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.

6. 6

   Cut out dough using 4-inch bear-shaped cookie cutter; place, 2 inches apart, on baking sheets sprayed with cooking spray.

7. 7

   Reroll scraps and use to cut additional cookies.

8. 8

   Decorate with small candies, raisins or sprinkles for eyes, mouth and buttons, pressing decorations lightly into dough to secure.

9. 9

   Bake 12 to 14 min.

10. 10

    or until slightly firm.

11. 11

    Let stand on baking sheets 2 min.

12. 12

    ; remove to wire racks.

13. 13

    Cool completely.

14. 14

    Melt chocolate; spread onto bottom halves of bears for the pants or skirts.

15. 15

    Use remaining chocolate to attach remaining decorations.

16. 16

    Let stand until chocolate is firm.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

No additional tips available.