Hey Bestie! When most cookiers think about packaging their cookies, they automatically default to individually bagging each cookie. And while that absolutely makes sense a lot of the time, it’s not the only option or best option in certain circumstances. In fact, when you’re packaging a decorated cookie platter, holiday tray, or large order for an event, individually bagging every cookie can feel time-consuming and honestly, a little unnecessary. So I’m happy to share my cookie platter packaging technique that is a simple and beautiful option. Customer service can make all the difference and when customers don’t want their cookies individually bagged, they appreciate this option. Or when your cookies look their best packaged as a platter, you’ll love this!
Packaging matters
We all know the difference beautiful packaging makes and is commonly the first impression someone makes of your product. But it’s not only about how they look. After all the hard work cookiers do to bake and decorate these edible works of art, we want them to stay safe, fresh and sanitary. Which is why the overwhelming majority of cookiers individually bag their cookies to ensure they are protected and have optimal freshness.
And this makes sense when cookies are being handed out, are serving as party favors, or won’t all be served at the same time. But what about when customers don’t want their cookies individually bagged? There are commonly times when customers prefer to have a platter of cookies. And while many cookiers simply say, “They can unbag them if they don’t want them bagged,” why not offer a simple alternative that pleases your customer, reduces waste and is even faster than individually bagging? I mean, if I had a large order that I’m paying good money for and the cookier didn’t care about my preference and told me to unbag the cookies, I wouldn’t be returning to that baker.
Or sometimes, your cookies look their best when packaged as a platter, like in the case of this decorated cookie platter. Individually bagging these would ruin the presentation and the WOW factor. You’ve already done the hardest part, now make sure your cookies look their best!
Hello Shrink wrapping
For platters, grouped cookie displays or those customers who want open platters, shrink wrapping the platter is a fabulous option. Cookies still remain fresh, safe and secure, and now look polished and professional.
Supplies:
I use cake boards to shrink wrap my platters that correspond to my box sizes for perfect presentation. THESE work great and are a fabulous price point.
The I use THESE food-safe shrink wrap bags. They come in a variety of sizes, but I typically order this size so they work for all my platters.
- ECO-Friendly POF 14X18″ Heat Shrink Wrap Bags 50pcs, Clear, Soft, SGS & ROSH approved, free of heavy metals, non-toxic, 100% odorless, healthy and food-grade safe.
And finally, I love THESE boxes! Beautiful quality and no box building involved, they pop right open!
Shrink wrapping technique
I don’t anchor my cookies to the platter at all, but you can use a dab of icing underneath your cookies if you’d like. I personally rely on the shrink wrap to hold everything in place just right. I place my cookie platter into the shrink wrap bag and heat seal the open end. Then I tuck the corners under and use a heat gun to lightly shrink wrap the bag to my platter. You can seal it as loose or as tight as you want. If your hair drier gets hot enough, you can use that! But I usually use THIS heat gun, which makes it very convenient.
Then simply box and your cookies are ready to go! I add one label to the box, instead of individual bag labels, so I save on labels too!
When the recipient wants to open the platter, they can simply cut into it and the shrink wrap just comes right off!
Shrink wrapping demo
I made a quick video showing exactly how I package my cookie platters. You’ll find it HERE or by clicking on the image below.
You’ve got options!
While the vast majority of my decorated cookies get individually bagged, I love this method of cookie platter packaging and my recipients do too. I hope this was helpful and gives you options to ensure your cookies are safe, fresh, secure and looking their best for those you bake for!
If you need any more help, you can find me and thousands of fellow Besties HERE. It’s the happiest corner of the internet where you’ll find endless help, support, inspiration and celebration of beautiful bakes. And I’d LOVE to see your cookies there too!
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Where did you get your cutter set! It’s ADORABLE!!
Love this platter set. Who makes these cutters please?