Ah, the magic of the holiday season! And what better way to embrace the festive spirit than with delicious Christmas Tree Cookies? These treats are not just visually captivating, shaped like those twinkling trees we adore, but they're also scrumptiously buttery and perfect for holiday munching. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises a cookie experience that's both fun and rewarding.
Share them with loved ones or set them out for Santa; either way, they’re bound to spread holiday cheer!
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
Firstly, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between taste and aesthetics. Many decorative cookies tend to prioritize looks over flavor, but not these! Every bite of these Christmas Tree Cookies gives you that melt-in-the-mouth buttery goodness, reminiscent of all those cozy Christmases spent by the fireplace. The simplicity of the base allows room for creativity, meaning you can customize them to your heart's content, whether that's with colorful icing, sparkling sugar, or festive sprinkles.
Secondly, making these cookies is an activity for everyone. Families can come together, roll up their sleeves, and engage in a delightful baking session. The joy of shaping, decorating, and finally tasting these cookies makes for wonderful memories. Plus, the ingredients are basic and easy to find, ensuring that you don’t have to embark on a wild grocery store hunt. If you're looking to introduce a new tradition or simply want a reliable cookie recipe that’s both gorgeous and tasty, this is the one for you.
Ingredients
Butter - Creates a soft and crumbly texture. Unsalted is best, but if you use salted butter, adjust the added salt accordingly.
Sugar - Adds sweetness to the cookies. Regular white sugar works well, but for a richer flavor, you can try light brown sugar.
All-purpose Flour - The primary dry ingredient for the dough. For a healthier version, whole wheat flour can be used, but it'll alter the texture a bit.
Eggs - Binds the ingredients together. If allergic, applesauce or mashed bananas can be used as substitutes, but the flavor and texture may vary.
Green Food Coloring - Gives the cookies their festive tree color. If you prefer natural colorants, spinach juice or matcha powder can be used (adjust for flavor).
Tips
- Don't overmix the dough, or the cookies might turn out tough.
- Chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling and cutting; it helps the cookies hold their shape.
- Use cookie cutters dipped in flour for easier shaping without sticking.
- Cookies can spread during baking, so place them at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
- For extra festivity, decorate with edible sprinkles or silver dragees before baking.
How to Serve
Christmas Tree Cookies are not just delightful to eat but are also a treat for the eyes. Their festive appearance makes them perfect for various holiday occasions.
- Gifts: Place them in a decorative tin or wrap them in cellophane, tied with a festive ribbon, and gift them to friends, family, or neighbors.
- Parties: Display them on a platter surrounded by other festive treats at your holiday party or dinner.
- Santa's Plate:Don't forget to leave a couple out for Santa, paired with a glass of milk, on Christmas Eve.
Similar Recipes
Christmas Tree Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1-2 drops green food coloring or as needed
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.
- Add green food coloring and mix until the color is evenly distributed.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
- Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
Notes
- Don't overmix the dough, or the cookies might turn out tough.
- Chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling and cutting; it helps the cookies hold their shape.
- Use cookie cutters dipped in flour for easier shaping without sticking.
- Cookies can spread during baking, so place them at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
- For extra festivity, decorate with edible sprinkles or silver dragees before baking.