I had the opportunity to teach a few cake classes to a group of middle school students. This program was a series of classes titled “Just Desserts.” This class focused on sculpting candy (specifically, tootsie rolls!) into roses and other flowers!

How to Make Tootsie Roll Roses

1. Start by buying the candy! Choose all brown or the assorted colors package. Remember you will need 1-3 pieces for each rose. You’ll also want a rolling pin and a mat or parchment paper to work on.

2. Microwave one piece of candy at a time for about 3-8 seconds and work the candy until it has the consistency of soft clay.

3. Make a ball

4. Shape your ball into a cone. This will be the center of your flower.

5. Roll out your candy very thin to make petals. You’ll want something to cut your petals out with (the bottom of a decorating tip works nicely) and cut out one or two petals. Use your hands to make them thinner and warm so that they can attach to your center

6. Continue to add petals until you have a nice bud.

7. Add another layer of petals, continuing to roll and cut out your candy. You might need to microwave one or two times during this process.

8. After your third set of petals, you’ll have a completed rose!

9. If you have other cutters and colors available, make other flowers or anything your imagination dreams up! Have fun!