Name: Doughnut-Hole Croquembouche
Yield: Makes 1 croquembouche
Ingredients: About 70 doughnut holes of any flavor; Assorted candy decorations such as M&M's, Red Hots, licorice balls, and silver dragées; 1/4 cup corn syrup with 1 teaspoon water stirred in; Purchased or homemade chocolate or caramel sauce (optional); Clear tape, 18-inch-tall Styrofoam cone (available at floral shops and craft stores), waxed or parchment paper or aluminum foil in color similar to doughnuts, cake-decorating turntable (optional), about 70 toothpicks, thimble, cloth leaves (available at floral shops and craft stores)

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Doughnut-Hole CroquemboucheJudy Moy

This kid-friendly version of a classic French Christmas treat subs doughnut holes for the traditional cream puffs. They're attached to a Styrofoam base to form a tall cone, which can then be decorated with candy or artificial leaves bought at craft stores.

Cooks' Note

Test-kitchen tip: Shredded coconut on a platter around the croquembouche can give the feeling of snow. For a healthier option, substitute round cherry tomatoes or cherries for the doughnut holes.

Recipe notes

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