Create a list of cookies that you would like to prepare for your classes. If it's the holiday season, you might prepare cookies that are appropriate for the season. Another approach is to start out with simple recipes, like refrigerator cookies, working up to more complex cookies that require ornate decoration or special preparation. You can also start with your favorite cookie and ask the class members to each pick a favorite they'd like to learn how to prepare.
Prepare a list of materials and ingredients that students will need to bring with them to class, unless you already have enough for everyone to use to prepare your recipe. It's helpful to read through the recipe and make a list of both the tools needed and the ingredients to ensure you don't overlook anything. If you think you have everything, lay out all the materials and ingredients to be sure.
Practice making the cookie recipe anticipating student questions as you complete each step. Try to remember what it was like the first time you baked and what questions might come to mind. Another option is to have a small child help you with the recipe. Many of their questions will be the same as someone new to baking. Also, jot down notes about acceptable substitutes for ingredients that you may not have on hand or ways to mix up the recipe for a variation on the basic cookie.
Tell your class to stop you and ask questions at any time during the class. This will put them at ease and ensure you keep the pace tolerable for all levels of learners. Have a batch of the same cookies that you making already made for your students to taste prior to baking their own. That way they can compare their cookies with yours and ask questions about differences; i.e. size, texture, color, crispiness, etc.
Invite students to share their cookies with one another and compare, just as they did with your cookies. This is a great way to break the ice and get students to mingle. It also helps them learn the many ways the final product can vary based on small changes to the recipe. Serve some hot cocoa, cide, or coffee and mingle with your students while they sample the cookies. This is a relaxed way to solicit feedback on the class so that you can make minor adjustments before the next one.