How to Make Cookie Cutters From Aluminum Cans
Round cookies dropped by the teaspoonful onto the baking pan may be the easiest to prepare, but creative shapes and designs are a sure crowd pleaser, whether you're throwing a party or making fun snacks for kids. Store bought cookie cutters can be expensive and a novelty shape such as a bottle for a baby shower may only get used once before being relegated to the back of the drawer. These creative cookie cutters made from aluminum cans will not only provide ample opportunity for creatively shaped desserts, they also provide a fun way to recycle soda cans. Since it won't cost you anything but your time to make them, there's no shame in simply discarding your used cookie cutters after you're finished if you won't use them again.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Empty aluminum can Scissors Pencil Pliers Stapler Staples Cardboard
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Making Cookie Cutters
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1
Cut the aluminum can in half. You may need to begin by poking a hole in the side of the can with your scissors, then using that as a starting point to cut the rest of the way around.
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2
Cut the top of the can off of one piece and the bottom of the can off of the other. This should leave you with two circles of aluminum. Try to cut these at the appropriate depth for your project. It won't matter if the cookie cutter is too deep, but avoid cutting a strip too thin to use.
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3
Shape your aluminum using pliers for the corners, and the pencil to create smooth, rounded edges. Depending on the shape you are creating, you may or may not need to cut the circular shape of the can. If you can, try to create your shape, such as a heart, without cutting the can. If you need to create a large or more intricate shape, you may need to snip the can so that you are working with a free strip of aluminum. For a large cookie cutter, you can use two or more strips of aluminum together.
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4
Staple your cookie cutter together if you needed to cut the strip to create your shape or if you are using multiple strips of aluminum. Make sure that the staples are secure and will not tear off during use.
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5
Use your cookie cutter. Place a piece of cardboard over top of the cutter and press down on this to sink the aluminum shape into the cookie dough.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Don't get discouraged if you aren't able to create your desired shape on the first try. It may be helpful to have multiple soda cans on hand to allow you plenty of practice. Explore the sites located in the resource section of this article to find inspiration for creative cookie cutter shapes you may want to try.
If you are working on this project with children, you may want to have them wear gloves to prevent the sharp edges and corners of the aluminum cans from cutting them.
