Every year, Americans eat about 2 billion cookies during the holidays. This shows how much we love sweet treats! The Christmas tree cookie is a big favorite during this time. With our recipe, you can make around 5 dozen cookies, great for sharing with loved ones.
These cookies are easy to make. You only need 30 minutes to prepare them. Then, bake them at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 14 to 16 minutes. Soon, you’ll be enjoying these tasty treats.
This recipe comes from Jaclyn, a talented baker. It has gotten 5 out of 5 stars from many bakers. The cookies use unbleached flour, powdered sugar, and flavors of vanilla and almond. They’re not just yummy, but also add holiday cheer to your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Create approximately 5 dozen Christmas tree cookies with this festive recipe.
- Prep time is just 30 minutes, with a total of 1 hour 30 minutes to ready.
- The cookies bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 14 to 16 minutes.
- Jaclyn’s recipe boasts a perfect 5-star rating.
- Uses basic ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, vanilla, and almond extracts.
Introduction to Christmas Tree Cookies
The joy of baking homemade Christmas cookies has been loved for many years. Christmas tree cookies are especially dear. They offer a tasty treat and a chance for easy cookie decorating that brings happiness and creativity.
These cookies have a deep history, starting with German Protestant communities in Pennsylvania in the 1700s. They are loved during the holidays for their festive shape. They make any holiday gathering more special.
Making festive cookies like Christmas tree cookies is a fun activity for everyone. Decorating them with colors and candies makes it a memorable experience. It’s something that brings people together.
The recipe makes about 36 cookies and takes 2 hours and 57 minutes to make. It’s perfect for any skill level. With ingredients like white sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla, your cookies will be a hit at any holiday party.
Ingredients Needed for Christmas Tree Cookies
To make Christmas tree cookies, you need a few basic ingredients and some optional extras. These cookies are great for the holidays and are easy to make. Let’s look at what you’ll need.
Basic Ingredients
The base of these cookies is simple but tasty. It’s perfect for decorating and adding extra flavors. Here are the main ingredients:
- 1.5 cups unsalted butter (339g)
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar (300g)
- 3 eggs
- 6 cups all-purpose flour (720g)
- 1 cup cornstarch (125g)
- 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt (7g)
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract (15mL)
- 1 lb confectioner’s sugar (454g)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (225g)
- 3 tbsp heavy whipping cream (45mL, amount can be adjusted)
- Baking powder
- Coloring gel
- Mini M&M’s
- Milk chocolate wafers
- Piping bags
- #3 piping tip
With these ingredients, you can make delicious treats that bake in 7-9 minutes at 350°F. Each cookie has about 178 calories, making them a tasty but not too heavy treat.
Optional Additions
For a special touch, try adding these ingredients:
- Almond Extract: Gives a nutty flavor to the dough. (Use it sparingly to keep the vanilla taste strong.)
- Green Food Coloring: Makes your cookies look festive. Adding color makes them stand out.
- Spices like Nutmeg or Cinnamon: Adds a warm, holiday flavor. (Great for adding a magical touch.)
Adding colored sugar or mini M&M’s makes the cookies look and feel special. These tips will help you make cookies that everyone will enjoy.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1.5 cups (339g) |
| Granulated Sugar | 1.5 cups (300g) |
| Eggs | 3 |
| All-Purpose Flour | 6 cups (720g) |
| Cornstarch | 1 cup (125g) |
| Kosher Salt | 1 1/2 tsp (7g) |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tbsp (15mL) |
| Confectioner’s Sugar | 1 lb (454g) |
| Unsalted Butter, room temperature | 1 cup (225g) |
| Heavy Whipping Cream | 3 tbsp (45mL, amount can be adjusted) |
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Get into the holiday spirit with our guide on making Christmas Tree Cookies. We’ll show you how to prepare and bake these festive treats. They’re perfect for family gatherings and cookie exchanges, ensuring your cookies are always a hit.
Preparing the Dough
Begin by mixing 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is key for the right texture. Then, add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mix. This adds moisture and flavor to your dough.
In another bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Slowly add this to the butter mixture until it forms a dough. Chill the dough in the fridge for at least 3 hours. This step helps your cookies keep their shape and flavor.
Baking the Cookies
When your dough is ready, heat your oven to 350°F. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to make Christmas tree shapes. Make sure the largest part of the tree is 3 inches for easy eating.
Put the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 6-9 minutes, or until they’re dry in the center and lightly browned. Watch the time closely to avoid over-browning. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before decorating.
These Christmas Tree Cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They have about 151 calories per serving, so you can enjoy them without too much guilt.
For more creative ideas and a detailed guide on seasonal treats, check out the step-by-step instructions here.
Decorating Your Christmas Tree Cookies
Decorating Christmas tree cookies can make your holiday baking even more special. With a few simple steps and tools, you can make your cookies look amazing. They will impress your family and guests alike.
Simple Decorating Tips
First, let your cookies cool completely before decorating. This ensures the icing sticks well. Use a piping bag with a #21 star tip for intricate designs. Fill it with green buttercream frosting made from butter, powdered sugar, heavy whipping cream, and green food coloring.
Adding sprinkles like white, gold, and silver sugar pearls can make your cookies pop. Sprinkle them on wet icing for a stunning finish. Edible glitter and coarse white sparkling sugar add a shimmering effect, making your cookies shine.
For more detailed designs, try a #18 or #22 piping tip. These tips give you better control and precision. Try different piping patterns like zigzags, swirls, and loops to make each cookie unique. Adding white sanding sugar can give them a snowy look.
For a fun twist, make snowman cookies. Use white buttercream frosting, black sanding sugar for eyes and buttons, and orange “jimmy” sprinkles for the nose. These cookies add a playful touch to your holiday treats.
Mini gingerbread house cookies are another great idea. Use a mini gingerbread house cookie cutter and royal icing for construction. Decorate with coarse white sugar to look like snow. These mini houses are perfect for your holiday dessert table and can be enjoyed as edible centerpieces.
Remember, store buttercream-frosted cookies in a single layer because they are soft. Cookies with royal icing can dry hard and be stacked. By following these tips and using your creativity, you can make festive desserts that everyone will love.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cookie Dough
Creating the perfect cookie dough is key for amazing holiday treats. Here are some expert tips to help you get it just right.
- Use Room-Temperature Butter: Start with butter at room temperature. This makes mixing smoother and easier for decorating.
- Proper Mixing: Cream 1 cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of granulated sugar for about 5 minutes. This makes the dough light and airy.
- Right Ingredients Proportions: Mix 3 cups of all-purpose flour with 2 tsp of baking powder and 1 tsp of cream of tartar. This avoids a dough that’s too stiff or too soft.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough overnight or for at least 4 hours. This prevents cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Avoid Overmixing: Don’t overmix the dough. It can make cookies tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
When baking time comes, preheat your oven to 350°F. Let the cookies cool fully on the cookie sheet after baking. Following these tips ensures your cookie dough is perfect for your Christmas tree cookie or other holiday treats. Successful holiday baking begins with these essential steps.
Creative Holiday Treats for Your Festive Table
Make your festive table stand out with a variety of Christmas treats. These treats celebrate family traditions and the joy of baking. They will impress your guests and make your holiday unforgettable.
Imagine serving Grinch Cookies alongside your homemade cookies. These green, heart-shaped cookies will make everyone smile. Also, try Holiday Reindeer Chow for a sweet and salty snack.
Snowman Cupcakes are a great choice for something fun and pretty. Their snowman faces will delight both kids and adults. Reindeer Brownies, with pretzel antlers and candy eyes, add a whimsical touch.
For a unique twist, try Christmas Tree Cupcakes and Sweet-and-Savory Peppermint Popcorn. These treats mix festive spirit with homemade cookie delight, making your table the highlight.
Peppermint Palmiers, Chocolate-Peppermint Fudge, and White Chocolate–Peppermint Pie add elegance. French-Style Hot Chocolate and Poinsettia Cocktail will keep everyone warm and happy.
Rosemary-Lemon Bundt Cake and Ginger Cake Squares with Chantilly Cream are perfect for those who love something special. Spicy-n-Sweet Snack Mix and Hot Toddy with Charred Oranges add festive fun to snacks.
Having a variety of these Christmas treats ensures there’s something for everyone. Pairing them with your homemade cookies will create lasting family traditions and a joyful holiday atmosphere.
- Recipe for Grinch Cookies provided
- Recipe for Holiday Reindeer Chow included
- Recipe for Snowman Cupcakes offered
- Recipe for Reindeer Brownies presented
- Recipe for Christmas Tree Cupcakes shared
- Recipe for Sweet-and-Savory Peppermint Popcorn listed
- Recipe for Peppermint Palmiers detailed
- Recipe for Peppermint Eggnog provided
- Recipe for Chocolate-Peppermint Fudge highlighted
- Recipe for Poinsettia Cocktail featured
- Recipe for French-Style Hot Chocolate with Coffee included
- Recipe for White Chocolate–Peppermint Pie mentioned
- Recipe for Rosemary-Lemon Bundt Cake with Candied Rosemary included
- Recipe for Ginger Cake Squares with Chantilly Cream presented
- Recipe for Spicy-n-Sweet Snack Mix shared
- Recipe for Hot Toddy with Charred Oranges outlined
With so many tasty options, hosting your holiday gathering will be easy. Your guests will love the variety and effort you put into each treat. Add your homemade cookies for that special touch. Enjoy making new family traditions and savor these delicious treats!
Easy Cookie Decorating Ideas
Decorating cookies can make your desserts taste and look better. This section offers easy ideas and tips for decorating sugar cookies. These ideas will make your holiday treats special.
Using Piping Bags
Piping bags are key for detailed cookie designs. Use different tips, like star tips #16, #19, and #35, or leaf tips #69 and #352, for various designs. Fill the bags with royal icing, which dries well after 24 hours. Here’s how to start:
- Choose your piping tips based on your design.
- Fill the bag with icing and practice on parchment paper to get the hang of it.
- Outline your cookies with a #2 tip, then fill them with thinned icing.
Using the right tips and practicing can make your cookies look amazing. These tips will help you achieve professional results at home.
Adding Color with Food Coloring
Color makes your cookies pop. Use gel paste food coloring, like AmeriColor, for vibrant colors. Shades like Leaf Green, Electric Green, and Bright White can make your cookies festive. Here’s how to add color:
- Mix equal parts of food coloring and water for your shade.
- Tint your icings ahead of time for even color.
- Use different tips, like #1 for small details, to add more flair.
Trying different colors can really enhance your cookies. This simple trick is a great way to impress your loved ones.
Also, add unique flavors to your cookies. Try ginger and cream cheese frosting, inspired by this easy ghost cookie recipe. It’s a hit in many homes.
Involving Kids in Holiday Baking
Holiday baking is a special tradition that brings families together. It’s even more fun when kids join in. By letting kids help with baking, you create lasting memories and teach them new skills. Here are some tips to make baking fun and safe for your little helpers.
Safe Tips for Kids
- Choose Child-Friendly Tools: Pick soft, easy-to-use cookie cutters for a safe and fun time making festive cookies.
- Set Up a Kid-Appropriate Station: Create a low table or counter for kids. Make sure it has non-slip mats and plastic utensils.
- Supervise Closely: Always watch kids while they’re decorating or using kitchen tools to avoid accidents.
- Use Safe Decorations: Use non-toxic, edible decorations like sprinkles and colored sugars for kids. They’re safe and fun.
Kid-Friendly Decorating Ideas
Decorating cookies is the best part. Let kids use their imagination and offer them safe, edible decorations. This way, they can make their own creative holiday treats.
- Edible Art: Use piping bags with different colored icings for kids to draw their favorite holiday scenes on cookies.
- Sprinkles Galore: Provide a variety of sprinkles, from classic rainbow to festive holiday-themed ones like stars and trees.
- Colorful Icing: Teach kids to outline cookies with a firmer icing before filling in with a thinner one. This creates a smooth look.
| Type of Cookies | Decoration |
|---|---|
| Gingerbread | Traditional spice-themed decorations |
| Chocolate Chip | Colorful chocolate chips and candy pieces |
| Butter Cookies | Colorful icing and sprinkles |
Letting kids help with holiday baking is a great way to spend time together. They can decorate gingerbread men or make a gingerbread village snow globe. The possibilities are endless. Let their creativity shine as you enjoy these special moments together this holiday season.
Conclusion
Holiday baking is more than just making festive desserts. It’s about the joy of mixing dough with loved ones. Seeing your cookies come out of the oven is truly satisfying.
These activities make our family traditions warmer and more special. They add a unique touch to the holiday season.
With ingredients like flour, baking powder, and sugar, you can make amazing cookies. A frosting made from butter and confectioner’s sugar is the perfect touch. Remember the Christmas Tree and Bloody Spearhead Cookies from ‘The Simpsons’? Even Martha Stewart joined in on the fun.
These cookies are not just tasty. They bring families together, celebrating the holiday spirit. Each cookie, whether stored or frozen, carries the joy of the season.
So, let’s make the most of the festive season. Let holiday baking connect us across generations. Every batch of cookies adds to our family’s traditions. The holiday season is the perfect time to enjoy these treats, spreading love with every bite.
F.A.Q
What are the basic ingredients needed for Christmas tree cookies?
To make Christmas tree cookies, you need unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and all-purpose flour. These ingredients make a dough that’s the base of your cookies.
Are there any optional additions to enhance the flavor and appearance of the cookies?
Yes, you can add almond extract for a nutty taste and green food coloring for a pop of color. Spices like nutmeg or cinnamon can also add depth to the flavor. Decorative elements like mini M&M’s or colored sugar add festive flair.
How do I prepare the dough for Christmas tree cookies?
First, cream butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Then, mix in eggs and vanilla extract for moisture and taste. Blend dry ingredients separately and add them to the mix to form a dough. Chill the dough to improve flavor and texture before cutting out shapes.
How do I achieve the best texture and flavor when baking the cookies?
For the best texture and flavor, use room-temperature butter for a smooth mix. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies. Chill the dough before baking to reduce spreading. Bake at a controlled temperature until they’re golden brown.
What are some easy decorating tips for Christmas tree cookies?
For easy decorating, use a piping bag to drizzle icing and create patterns. You can also use food coloring, sprinkles, and edible glitters to make each cookie unique and festive.
Can children safely participate in holiday baking?
Yes, kids can safely help with holiday baking. Use child-friendly cookie cutters and set up a safe decorating station. Choose decorations that are safe for kids. Baking together creates special family memories.
What other creative holiday treats can complement Christmas tree cookies?
Consider making peppermint bark, gingerbread men, and candy cane hearts to go with your Christmas tree cookies. These treats add variety and make your dessert spread more appealing.
How can I use piping bags effectively for cookie decorating?
To decorate with piping bags, pick the right tip sizes and ensure the icing is the right consistency. Practice steady pressure to get precise designs. Try different tips to find the look you want for your cookies.
What are some tips for avoiding common pitfalls when making cookie dough?
Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies and chill the dough to stop spreading. Make sure the dough has the right balance of dry and wet ingredients. This makes the dough easy to work with but not too stiff.
Why are Christmas tree cookies significant in holiday traditions?
Christmas tree cookies are special because of their festive shape and the fun decorating brings. They have a long history, starting in German Protestant communities in Pennsylvania in the 1700s. They add joy and create memories for families and friends.
