There’s something truly magical about baking during the holiday season, and Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat to brighten your festivities. These delightful cookies combine simple ingredients and festive charm, making them a cherished recipe for families everywhere. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking to create sweet memories with your kids, baking these tree-shaped delights is a joy in itself.
Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2.75 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use softened butter for easy creaming.
- 1.5 cups white sugar
- 1 piece egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon almond extract
Decoration
- 3-4 cups royal icing for decoration
- Food coloring (optional) Use for decorating if desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, along with the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients to form a soft, manageable dough.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass and use cookie cutters to cut into tree shapes.
Baking
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on wire racks.
- Decorate with royal icing and food coloring as desired.
Notes
Why you’ll love this dish
Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies are not just any cookies; they’re a holiday tradition. This recipe is adored for its buttery flavor and the joy it brings when decorating with royal icing and colorful sprinkles. They’re quick to prepare, perfect for sharing, and appeal to both kids and adults alike.
“Baking these sugar cookies has become a tradition in our family. The kids love decorating them, and they taste amazing!” – Happy Baker
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply to enjoy with a warm cup of cocoa. The fun shape and vibrant decorations bring an extra dose of cheer to your celebrations.
Step-by-step overview
Making Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies is a breeze, and your kitchen will soon be filled with a delightful aroma. The process is simple and straightforward, allowing even novice bakers to shine. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create something special.
What you’ll need
To make these festive cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 3 to 4 cups royal icing for decoration
- Food coloring (optional)
These basic ingredients come together to create delightful cookies perfect for any holiday occasion. If you have dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour or plant-based butter for alternatives.
Directions to follow
Follow these easy steps to create your Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, along with the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients to form a soft, manageable dough.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass and use cookie cutters to cut into tree shapes.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on wire racks.
- Decorate with royal icing and food coloring as desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies are a visual delight and taste delicious on their own. However, they shine brighter when served alongside a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot chocolate. Consider using a festive plate or basket to present your cookies and share the joy with family and friends.
How to store & freeze
To keep your Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last up to a week. For long-term storage, consider freezing the undecorated cookies. Place them in a single layer in a zip-top bag or airtight container, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and decorate as desired.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best sugar cookies, remember to:
- Use softened butter for easy creaming.
- Ensure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh for the best rise.
- Don’t skip cooling the cookies before decorating; this helps the icing set better.
- Experiment with different cookie cutters to create a variety of festive shapes.
Creative twists
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to add your own creative spin. Try using different flavored extracts like lemon or peppermint for a unique taste. You can also incorporate chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using different colors and toppings, such as sprinkles or edible glitter, to make your cookies extra special.
FAQs
What is the prep time for Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes for baking.
Can I substitute the butter in the recipe?
Yes, you can use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free option.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze the dough in advance, then bake and decorate when you’re ready.
What kind of icing can I use besides royal icing?
You can use buttercream frosting or store-bought icing, but royal icing is best for decorating and achieving a crisp finish.
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