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Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

The festive season is the perfect excuse to embark on delightful baking adventures, and one recipe that comes to mind is the beloved Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies. These cookies bring a touch of whimsy and wonder to any holiday spread, pleasing eyes and taste buds alike from the first bite. Perfect for including in holiday gift baskets or as a charming treat for your next festive gathering, these cookies never fail to impress.

Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies Final Dish Presentation

I remember baking these cookies with my grandmother in her cozy kitchen. She would tell me stories of Christmas past while we decorated each cookie with frosting and sprinkles, transforming the dough into miniature masterpieces. Those golden afternoons taught me that the essence of the season is found in moments made with loved ones around a table brimming with joy and laughter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines simplicity and creativity, making it a delightful project for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The dough is easy to work with, requiring simple pantry ingredients, and the decorating possibilities are endless. The cookies’ buttery texture and sweet flavor provide the perfect canvas for festive decorations.

Ingredients Notes

These cookies call for basic ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. Make sure to use unsalted butter for control over the recipe’s saltiness. Vanilla extract enhances the flavor, but you can also try almond extract for a nutty twist. Food coloring and assorted sprinkles bring the decorations to life.

Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies ingredients

Recipe Steps

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Chill dough for at least one hour.

Step 3

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. Use cookie cutters to cut out tree shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5

Once cooled, decorate with royal icing tinted with food coloring. Add sprinkles or dragées to mimic ornaments and lights on the trees. Let the icing set before serving or storing.

Storage Options

To keep the cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If freezing, layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm holiday twist. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a trusted gluten-free flour blend. Those preferring less sweetness can reduce the sugar by one-third without compromising texture.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies make a striking addition to your holiday table, wrapped as gifts, or shared at cookie exchanges. Pair them with hot cocoa or mulled cider to create an inviting winter treat that warms both the heart and soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, the dough can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows you to break up the preparation and baking into manageable segments.

What is the best way to ensure my cookies don’t spread? Chilling the dough is crucial in preventing cookies from spreading. Additionally, make sure to not overmix the butter and sugar, which can incorporate too much air and result in spreading during baking.

Can I use margarine instead of butter? While margarine can be used, it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Butter provides a richer flavor and contributes to that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture, which is ideal for these cookies.

Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies Final Dish Presentation

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Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies

A delightful treat, perfect for holiday celebrations!
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs room temperature

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Combine flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually stir into the creamed mixture.
  • Roll the dough out on a floured surface and cut into desired shapes.
  • Place cookies 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  • Bake for 8 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven, until edges are lightly browned.
  • Remove from oven and cool on wire racks before decorating.

Notes

Decorate with icing and sprinkles for extra festive flair.

I’m Noelle, a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, personal trainer, author, and podcaster. I love helping people improve their physical and mental health with easy to understand health articles, and delicious recipes made with nourishing ingredients. Pull up a seat, you’re welcome at this table!

Recipe Key

Low Carb

LC

Nut Free

NF

Paleo

P

Vegetarian

V

Gluten Free

GF

Grain Free

GR

Dairy Free

DF

Egg Free

EF

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