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These Decorated Christmas Tree Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that has become a cherished part of my family’s festive traditions. They are simple to make yet bring so much joy to both kids and adults alike, especially when it comes to decorating.
I first made these cookies as part of a holiday baking party with my kids. The giggles as we decorated each tree with colorful sprinkles remain one of my favorite moments every December.
- All purpose flour: 2 ¾ cups Ensures the cookies hold their shape while achieving a delicate texture
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon Helps the dough rise just enough for a light, soft cookie
- Salt: ½ teaspoon Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup softened Creates a buttery and tender base
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup Adds just the right sweetness without overpowering
- Large egg: 1 Binds the ingredients while giving structure to the cookies
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons For warm and rich flavor
- Almond extract: ½ teaspoon Optional but elevates the taste with a subtle nutty hint
How To Make Decorated Christmas Tree Cookies
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a bowl whisk together the flour baking powder and salt until evenly combined. This step ensures the powder is perfectly distributed for even baking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a separate bowl use a mixer to beat the softened butter with the sugar. Continue until it turns light and fluffy around 3 minutes. This process incorporates air for tender cookies.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Mix in the egg vanilla extract and almond extract while beating at a lower speed. Ensure everything is well blended for a smooth dough base.
- Bring Together the Dough:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until the dough just comes together do not overmix. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour to hydrate the flour and make it easier to roll out.
- Roll and Shape:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F or 175°C. Roll the chilled dough to a ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Use a Christmas tree shaped cutter for festive shapes.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Place your shaped cookies on a lined baking sheet leaving some space around each as they expand slightly. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden being careful not to overbake.
- Cool and Decorate:
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled unleash your creativity and decorate with colored frosting icing or sprinkles.
Vanilla extract is by far my favorite ingredient in this recipe. It adds the essence of warm cozy holidays. I remember the bright sparkle in my daughter’s eyes when she first licked the vanilla-scented frosting off the spoon.
Storage Tips
Store the finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If freezing wrap undecorated cookies tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in freezer bags. Thaw completely before decorating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of almond extract simply double the vanilla extract. You can also swap all purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend for a celiac-friendly option.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk hot cocoa or even package a few together with festive wrapping as gifts for family and friends. They also make sweet additions to holiday dessert platters.
Cultural Context
Holiday cookie decorating is a beloved custom in many households especially during Christmas. These Christmas tree cookies symbolize warmth joy and creativity showcasing the soul of festive family traditions.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the dough holds its shape?
Chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out. This helps maintain its shape during baking.
- → Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before use.
- → How thick should I roll the dough?
Roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness for even baking and a soft, tender texture.
- → What decorations can I use for these cookies?
You can use icing, edible glitter, sprinkles, or small sugar ornaments to create festive designs.
- → How long do the cookies last after baking?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.