Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies: A Touch of Festive Magic
Introduction
Imagine the delightful aroma of freshly baked Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies wafting through your kitchen. These charming cookies are the perfect embodiment of holiday cheer, offering both taste and visual appeal. Ideal for sharing with loved ones, they serve as a sweet reminder of the season’s joy. Subscribe to receive this festive recipe delivered straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a holiday classic for many reasons! The cookies boast a buttery, sweet flavor with a hint of vanilla and almond, making them an irresistible treat. Their ease of preparation makes them a fun family activity, while decorating them offers creative joy for both young and old. Plus, they’re simply gorgeous to look at, adding a festive touch to any holiday spread.
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
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
– Green food coloring
– Colored sprinkles and edible stars
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Electric mixer
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Plastic wrap
– Rolling pin
– Tree-shaped cookie cutter
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
– Wire rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to personalize your cookies with a twist! Swap almond extract with peppermint for a minty surprise, or add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor. For a splash of color, blend multiple food coloring shades to create a unique hue for your trees.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a larger bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Blend in the egg, vanilla, and optional almond extract until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, stirring until just mixed.
6. Incorporate green food coloring gradually to reach your desired shade.
7. Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/4 inch thick.
9. Use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to form cookies, placing them on prepared sheets.
10. Decorate with sprinkles and edible stars.
11. Bake 8-10 minutes until set and edges are slightly golden.
12. Cool on sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect served with a warm mug of cocoa or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make a beautiful addition to any dessert table or as festive party favors.
Pro Tips for Success
For evenly baked cookies, ensure your dough is uniformly rolled. Using chilled dough helps maintain the shape during baking. Don’t skip the cooling stage on the baking sheet for optimal texture!
Storing and Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To refresh them, a few seconds in the microwave revives their just-baked aroma.
FAQ Section
– Can I freeze the dough?** Yes! Wrap in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before use.
– Do I need to use almond extract?** It’s optional. Skip it or replace it with another extract of your choice for a different flavor.
Conclusion
These Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies not only promise delightful flavor but also the joy of festive creativity. Perfect for gatherings or gifting, they’re sure to become a holiday staple. We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos and tag us on Pinterest or Instagram.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 145
– Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Protein: 1g
Gather your family and start creating sweet holiday memories with these cookies. Happy baking!
