Easy Mardi Gras Alligators (Fun, Festive & Kid-Friendly)
When Mardi Gras rolls around, you know it’s time for bold colors, playful traditions, and a whole lot of fun. If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s just as festive as the celebration itself, these Mardi Gras Alligators are the way to go.
They’re crunchy, chocolatey, and decorated to steal the spotlight at any party. Even better? They’re super simple to make—just 20 minutes from start to finish! Whether you’re whipping them up for a classroom snack, a family kitchen project, or a full-on Mardi Gras bash, these little gators are guaranteed to bring the fun.
What You’ll Need
- 12 oz green candy melts
- 8 Nutter Butter cookies
- 16 candy eyes
- 40 white heart sprinkles (for teeth)
- 8 crown sprinkles (because every gator deserves a royal upgrade)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Melt the candy coating
Follow the instructions on your candy melts bag (brands vary). My go-to: microwave at 50% power for 2 minutes, stir, then keep heating in 30-second bursts until smooth.
2. Dip the cookies
Using tongs or a fork, dunk each Nutter Butter cookie into the melted candy until fully coated. Shake off any excess.
3. Set the stage
Place coated cookies on a parchment-lined tray. Work quickly—this is where the decorating magic begins.
4. Add the eyes
While the coating is still warm, press two candy eyes near the top of each cookie.
5. Make the smile
Use five white heart sprinkles along the bottom edge to create a toothy grin. Don’t worry if they’re a little uneven—it just makes your gator more charming!
6. Top with crowns
Finish with a crown sprinkle right on top. Suddenly, these gators are fit for Mardi Gras royalty.
7. Let them dry
Allow the candy to set completely before serving. Too slow? Pop the tray in the fridge for a few minutes.
Tips & Tricks
- 🎨 Keep it colorful: Mix in purple and gold sprinkles to go full Mardi Gras.
- 👩🍳 Kid-friendly fun: Let little hands place the eyes and teeth—messy but memorable!
- ⏱️ Quick fix: If the candy coating hardens too fast, zap it for a few seconds in the microwave to loosen it up.
Why You’ll Love Them
- Ready in just 20 minutes
- Festive and fun for kids + adults
- Perfect for parties, classrooms, or family nights
- Easy enough for beginner bakers
Mardi Gras Alligators
Ingredients
Method
- Melt candy melts according to package directions (usually microwave at 50% power, stir, then repeat until smooth).
- Dip each Nutter Butter cookie into the melted candy. Shake gently to remove excess.
- Place coated cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- While still warm, add 2 candy eyes near the top of each cookie.
- Press 5 white heart sprinkles along the front edge for teeth.
- Add a crown sprinkle to the top for that Mardi Gras flair.
- Let cookies dry completely (room temp or fridge for quicker setting).
- Serve and enjoy your festive alligator treats!
Notes
- Add purple and gold sprinkles for an even more Mardi Gras feel.
- If the candy sets too quickly, warm it briefly in the microwave to loosen.
- Kids love decorating—this is a great family activity.
✨ That’s it! Your Mardi Gras Alligators are ready to party. Sweet, silly, and a little royal—just like Mardi Gras should be.
