Christmas Tree Cookies: A Festive Holiday Baking Tradition

Christmas Tree Cookies (Decorated Holiday Sugar Cookies)

Are you looking for the perfect holiday treat to bring festive cheer to your home? Christmas Tree Cookies are not just delicious sugar cookies—they’re edible decorations that capture the magic of the season! Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange, preparing gifts for neighbors, or creating memories with family, these decorated holiday sugar cookies will become a treasured tradition. Let’s dive into creating these delightful treats that combine artistry with the sweet flavors of Christmas.

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Ingredients List

For the Sugar Cookies:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional for enhanced flavor)

For the Royal Icing:

• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 3 tablespoons meringue powder
• 6-8 tablespoons warm water
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (clear vanilla for whiter icing)
• Green food coloring (gel preferred)
• Yellow, red, and white food coloring for decorations
• Sprinkles and edible glitter (optional)

Timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (including dough making)
• Chilling Time: 2 hours (can be prepared the day before)
• Baking Time: 8-10 minutes
• Decorating Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours, 25 minutes

Save time by preparing the dough up to 3 days in advance and storing in the refrigerator – this actually improves flavor development compared to same-day baking!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Beat in egg, vanilla, and almond extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. For tender cookies, avoid overmixing.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Divide dough in half, form into discs, and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Properly chilled dough prevents spreading and maintains your perfect tree shapes!

Step 3: Roll and Cut

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Use Christmas tree cookie cutters to cut shapes. Pro tip: dip cutters in flour between cuts for cleaner edges.

Step 4: Bake

Place cookies 1 inch apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are just set but not browned. Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare Royal Icing

Mix powdered sugar and meringue powder. Add water and vanilla, beating on low speed for 7-10 minutes until stiff peaks form. Divide icing and color as needed (reserve some white for details).

Step 6: Decorate

Outline trees with green icing using a #3 piping tip. Once dry (about 20 minutes), flood with thinned green icing. Add decorations while still wet or wait for base to dry and add details. Get creative with star tips for textured tree effects!

Nutritional Information

Per cookie (approximate):

• Calories: 175
• Protein: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 18g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Reduce sugar by 25% in the cookie dough for a less sweet option
• Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index
• For vegan cookies, substitute butter with plant-based butter and use aquafaba instead of egg
• Create gluten-free Christmas Tree Cookies with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
• For natural coloring, use matcha powder for green, turmeric for yellow, and beet powder for red

Serving Suggestions

Serve on a tiered platter arranged like a Christmas tree forest. Pair with:

• Hot chocolate with peppermint sticks
• Warm spiced apple cider
• Eggnog for adults
• Create a cookie board with other holiday treats like Winter Sugar Cookies Decorated with snowflakes or Christmas Royal Icing Cookies

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping dough chilling (results in spread-out, shapeless trees)
• Overmixing the dough (leads to tough cookies)
• Rolling dough too thin (causes breakage)
• Overbaking (trees should not brown on top)
• Making royal icing too runny (causes bleeding colors)

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Store decorated cookies in a single layer in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 1 week
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking
• Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months
• Prepare dough ahead and freeze for up to 2 months
• For gift-giving, package in cellophane bags tied with ribbon

Conclusion

These Christmas Tree Cookies bring joy beyond just their delicious taste—they create opportunities for family bonding and holiday traditions. The combination of buttery sugar cookies and festive decorations makes them perfect for gifting, displaying, or simply enjoying with loved ones. What holiday recipes will you pair with these festive treats? Share your creations or questions in the comments below!

FAQs

Can I make these cookies without royal icing?
Yes! Simple buttercream frosting or even store-bought icing works well. You can also use a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.

How far in advance can I make these cookies for a party?
You can make the cookies up to 1 week ahead. For best results, bake them 2-3 days before and decorate 1-2 days before your event.

Why did my cookies spread and lose their tree shape?
This typically happens when the dough isn’t chilled enough or contains too much butter. Make sure to refrigerate thoroughly and measure ingredients precisely.

Can I ship these cookies as gifts?
Yes! Once royal icing has completely hardened (allow 24 hours), wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap, then cushion with bubble wrap in a sturdy container. They should ship well domestically for 2-3 days.

What can I use if I don’t have meringue powder?
You can substitute 2 egg whites (pasteurized for safety) for the meringue powder and reduce the water accordingly for royal icing.