How to Make a Toy Poodle Centerpiece

Kids can assist in making simple marshmallow sculptures.

Sculpting an edible toy poodle centerpiece from marshmallows can be a creative and inexpensive way to enhance party decorations. Consider using marshmallow centerpieces at a fondue or dessert-themed party. According to the American Kennel Club, toy poodles are defined by their diminutive size, measuring no more than 10 inches in height at the shoulders. Traditional grooming methods for the curly haired, hypoallergenic canines prescribe the shaving of the legs and hindquarters, an effect you can carry off with edible pretzel sticks.

Things You'll Need

• Egg white
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Jumbo white marshmallows
• Toothpicks
• Pastry brush
• Large marshmallows
• Black licorice
• Knife
• Plate

Instructions

1. Prepare the confectioner's paste immediately before beginning to sculpt the poodle centerpiece. Place one egg white and 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar in a bowl. Whisk until smooth, for about 2 to 3 minutes.

2. Apply an even coat of the confectioner's paste to the end of a jumbo marshmallow using the pastry brush and reinforce the structure by placing a toothpick halfway into the end. Secure another marshmallow by sliding it over the toothpick. Repeat, until a chain of three jumbo marshmallows has been formed, creating the torso of the toy poodle centerpiece.

3. Form the head of the poodle by securing a jumbo marshmallow to the top of the sculpture with the paste and a toothpick. Approximately 1/3 of the marshmallow should overlap on to the body, with the rest sticking out.

4. Create the poodle's signature mane of curls by placing 1/2 of a toothpick into the end of a large marshmallow. Stick the other end into the head of the poodle and repeat, spacing the marshmallows close together. Once the head is surrounded by large marshmallows, seal by brushing on confectioner's paste.

5. Complete the face by attaching a large marshmallow nose to center of the face with a toothpick and paste. Cut three round pieces of black licorice into approximately 1/8-inch-thick circles. Attach two circles above the nose to form eyes, and the final piece to the center of the nose.

6. Stick a pretzel stick approximately 1/8 inch into the back of the torso. Place a large marshmallow on the other end, to represent the poodle's tail. Stick four pretzel sticks into the bottom of the centerpiece's torso, forming the base of the limbs.

7. Place a large marshmallow on the end of each pretzel stick leg. Generously coat the bottom of each marshmallow with the confectioner's paste. Place the poodle centerpiece on a decorative platter and allow to dry before moving the centerpiece to display.

References

• American Kennel Club: Poodle