Julia continues her latest botanical series with these cookies inspired by the very beauties climbing her own garden arbor. (Or we should say “arbors”; she grows many varieties of clematis!) This edible variety is made entirely of royal icing transfers, some contoured and others stenciled, like the delicate trellis in the background. After drying, each piece is individually airbrushed and then assembled together on the cookie to create this masterpiece. A labor of love, without question, but definitely a project anyone can do with Julia’s detailed step-by-step instructions.
Yes, the official winner reveal in the 4th virtual edition of Julia M. Usher’s Cookie Art Competition™ is here! This year’s competition (once again) surpassed Julia’s expectations on many metrics: the final prize tally was $20,650 (with a record-breaking $9,600 in cash); both number of registrants and entrants grew by a whopping 39% to levels not seen in many years; registrants came from 19 different countries; and the caliber of entries was perhaps better than ever, each one filled with so much thoughtfulness, skill, and meaning.
Congrats to all of the entrants whose passionate expressions of cookie art and the courage to share that art with the world are beyond impressive; thanks to the competition’s 17 sponsors for their incredible generosity; and never-ending gratitude to the judging team for applying so much valuable time and expertise to the evaluation process.
To see all 12 winning entries – along with winners’ bios, notes about their interpretations of theme (“Nature’s Symphony”), and select comments from the judges – please visit the official winner reveal post on Julia’s site Cookie Connection by clicking the “WINNER REVEAL” button below. There you will also find the Kerry Vincent Best in Show winner and notes from Julia about when to expect feedback on entries if you requested it.
But, before you run off to the reveal post, Julia encourages you to visit the competition sponsors’ sites and to say thank-you by checking out their wonderful products and services. You can find them listed under the “FRIENDS” section of this site! Please also stay tuned for a 2026 competition update before the year’s end.
Julia’s 2025 event schedule offers plenty of learning and excitement for everyone! She kicks off the year with a valentines-themed Zoom class as well as a trip to the UK, where she’ll learn if she won the D’licious Magazine 2024 Cookie Artist of the Year and People’s Choice Awards. (She’s been named a finalist for both.) Once back from her travels, Julia will tackle a full agenda of cookie and video production, with the aim of bringing you more online tutorials and classes in 2025 than ever before.
Japan Salonaise Association, Japan and Other Asian Markets
Japan Salonaise Association, Japan and Other Asian Markets
Canada's Baking and Sweets Show, The International Center, Ontario, Canada
Canada's Baking and Sweets Show, The International Center, Ontario, Canada
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