Thank you all so much for your thoughtful replies!
I first want to apologize if my tone came off as accusatory- I certainly don't believe that anyone has ill intentions or is deliberately swindling anybody. I also will be the first to admit that I really enjoy the products I purchase from cookie-preneurs, although I have never paid for any tutorials personally, but I love love love me some 3D-printed cutters and fancy sprinkles! I really admire them for thinking about their businesses and pursuing their interests and am happy to support them. What I was more getting at is that there is generally not a candid (public) discussion of pricing and business models; in other words, nobody is coming out saying directly "By the way these would cost $40 each so don't think I'm selling them!"
My real annoyance here is mostly that customers see these elaborate cookies, and not knowing they were made as demonstrations/art pieces, think they can add a dozen in their set. When trying to mimic these styles, it of course is taking a long time, which is a frustrating realization midway through a set. It got me thinking about my business model, since I (like Julia) enjoy making the detailed and multi-layer cookies, but I can't see a profitable model in selling these cookies to customers.
Your comments were all very helpful and again I am sorry again if I offended anyone!