Marzipan Snowmen

1Line a baking pan or large tray with waxed paper. Roll four 2-tsp (10-mL) portions of marzipan into balls; place on lined pan. Roll another four 1-tsp (5-mL) portions of marzipan into smaller balls and an additional four 1/2-tsp (2-mL) portions of marzipan into even smaller balls (there should be leftover marzipan). Sift icing sugar into small bowl; roll each marzipan ball in icing sugar; shake off excess and return balls to lined pan.

2Place a toothpick down the centre of the largest ball, exposing just enough toothpick to secure the medium and small balls on top. Press the medium-sized ball through the toothpick onto the largest ball, then spear the smallest ball on top. Repeat building snowman shapes with remaining balls.

3Add 1 to 2 drops red food colouring to 2 tbsp (30 mL) of the leftover marzipan (there will be some leftover); knead thoroughly to incorporate. Roll red marzipan into 1/8-in. (3-mm) thick rectangle, dusting with icing sugar to prevent sticking. Slice into four strips for "scarves". Wrap one scarf around each snowman neck, pressing gently to adhere. To remaining 1 tbsp (15 mL) plain marzipan, add 1 to 2 drops orange food colouring; kneading thoroughly to incorporate. Roll into 4 small cones to form carrot noses. Using a toothpick, make an indent on the snowman’s face to insert the marzipan carrot nose; press gently to adhere. Make 4 noses.

4Pressing the pointy end of mini chocolate chips into the marzipan, secure 2 chocolate chips above the nose for "eyes" and 3 chocolate chips down the front of the snowman for buttons. Break toothpicks in half and press into sides to form arms on all snowmen.