Christmas Tree Cookies are the perfect festive treat that brings both the joy of baking and the magic of the holiday season right into your kitchen. These delightful cookies are shaped like Christmas trees, making them a fun and cheerful addition to any holiday celebration. They are soft, buttery, and beautifully decorated, which makes them a hit among kids and adults alike. Plus, the process of baking and decorating these cookies is a wonderful way to create lasting memories with friends and family during the holidays.
Why Make This Christmas Tree Cookies
These Christmas Tree Cookies are not only adorable but also incredibly delicious. With each bite, you’ll experience a soft, buttery texture that melts in your mouth. The sweet aroma of sugar and vanilla fills your home as they bake, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings. Whether you’re looking to add a festive touch to your dessert table or want to create edible gifts for loved ones, these cookies are an ideal choice. Plus, decorating is a fantastic way to unleash your creativity and get everyone involved in the kitchen!
How to Make Christmas Tree Cookies
Making Christmas Tree Cookies is a straightforward process that even beginner bakers can master. With a handful of ingredients and simple instructions, you’ll have a batch of festive cookies ready in no time. Just gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to roll out your dough. The joy of cutting out the shapes and decorating them is all part of the festive fun, making this recipe a delightful holiday activity.
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Green icing for decorating
- Sprinkles (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture until the dough comes together.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use a Christmas tree cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the dough.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool completely, then decorate with green icing and sprinkles if desired.
Nutritional Information
Per cookie (based on 24 servings):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 1g
How to Serve Christmas Tree Cookies
These cookies are perfect for a wide range of occasions. Serve them at holiday parties, school celebrations, or as a sweet treat after your family meal. They also make delightful gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or tins. Pair them with a glass of warm milk or a steaming cup of cocoa for a cozy experience. Kids love to enjoy them as festive snacks, especially when they help with the decorating process!
How to Store Christmas Tree Cookies
To keep your Christmas Tree Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before decorating and serving.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Tree Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough; this could result in tough cookies.
- Chill your dough for about 30 minutes if it feels too soft to handle. This will make it easier to roll out and cut into shapes.
- Experiment with different colors of icing and themed sprinkles to match your holiday décor.
Delicious Variations
Feel free to customize your Christmas Tree Cookies! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor or blend in some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Nut butter can be used in place of butter for a different taste and texture. For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or crushed candies to the dough, or use white icing to mimic snow on the trees.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the cookies may not have the same rich flavor and texture as those made with butter.
2. How can I make my icing stiffer?
To thicken your icing, you can add powdered sugar a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a small amount of milk or water.
3. Can I decorate the cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can decorate the cookies a few days in advance and keep them in an airtight container. Just ensure they don’t stick together by placing parchment paper between layers.
Conclusion
Making Christmas Tree Cookies is a fun, festive way to celebrate the holiday season. With their soft texture and delightful appearance, they are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them. Gather your loved ones, make some memories in the kitchen, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your hard work. Don’t hesitate to experiment with decorating and variations. We’d love to hear how your cookies turn out, so share your creations and enjoy the spirit of the season!