Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 1.5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 22 grams
- Fat: 7 grams
- Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Sugar: 8 grams
- Sodium: 50 mg
Why Make This Frosted Christmas Tree Cookies
Frosted Christmas Tree Cookies bring the holiday spirit to your kitchen with their delightful shape and vibrant green frosting. They are not only fun to make, but they also taste fantastic! Each cookie has a buttery flavor and a soft texture that melts in your mouth. Decorating them with colorful sprinkles turns this cheerful treat into a festive masterpiece that every member of the family will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just looking to spread some cheer, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and joy wherever they go.
How to Make Frosted Christmas Tree Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- Green frosting
- Decorative sprinkles
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cookies bake evenly and rise to perfection.
Step 2: Mixing
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture is crucial as it forms the base of your cookies. Set it aside for now.
Step 3: Creaming
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies a lovely texture. Next, add one large egg, the vanilla extract, and almond extract; mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; just go until everything is combined.
Step 5: Rolling and Cutting
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out your cookies and carefully place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Baking
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
Step 7: Cooling
Once baked, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial as it helps ensure that the frosting stays in place when you add it.
Step 8: Decorating
Frost each cooled cookie with green frosting and generously sprinkle with decorative sprinkles to add that festive touch!
How to Serve Frosted Christmas Tree Cookies
These cookies shine at any holiday gathering. Serve them on a decorative platter during your Christmas party or gift them in a festive cookie tin to share the love. Kids will adore these cookies, making them a perfect addition to holiday cookie exchanges or classroom treats.
How to Store Frosted Christmas Tree Cookies
Store your Frosted Christmas Tree Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Just make sure the frosting is completely set before stacking them to prevent sticking.
Expert Tips for Perfect Frosted Christmas Tree Cookies
- Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft to roll out, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for optimal creaming and mixing.
- Even Baking: Rotate your cookie sheet halfway through baking for even cooking, especially if your oven has hot spots.
Delicious Variations
- Flavored Frosting: Experiment with different frosting flavors like peppermint or chocolate to change things up.
- Colorful Sprinkles: Switch up the sprinkles for other colors or shapes that suit your theme, such as red and white for a candy cane vibe.
- Add Nuts: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a delightful crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the baked cookies without frosting for up to three months. Just make sure they are in an airtight container. Frost and decorate them after thawing. -
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but using margarine can slightly change the flavor and texture. Unsalted butter is still the best choice for rich taste and soft cookies. -
What type of flour should I use?
All-purpose flour is perfect for these cookies. However, for a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend. -
How can I make the cookies more festive?
Consider drizzling white chocolate over the frosted cookies for a snowy finish, or use edible glitter for an extra sparkle! -
Is there a substitute for almond extract?
If you don’t have almond extract, you can leave it out or replace it with more vanilla extract for a similar flavor profile.
Conclusion
Frosted Christmas Tree Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the festive season, bringing warmth and sweetness to any gathering. Their vibrant green frosting and charming shape make them an irresistible treat, whether enjoyed at home or shared with friends and family. They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and sure to leave everyone with a smile. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and start baking these joyful cookies today—because nothing spreads holiday cheer quite like a plate of freshly baked cookies!
