Rosemary Shortbread Christmas Tree Cookies: A Festive Delight
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the heartwarming scent of fresh rosemary wafting through your kitchen during the holidays. Rosemary Shortbread Christmas Tree Cookies bring a unique twist to traditional holiday baking, combining buttery goodness with the subtle, aromatic flavor of rosemary. These cookies are not only delicious but also make for a charming homemade gift that will surely impress friends and family. Sign up to receive this delightful recipe straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are a holiday-inspired dream! Their blend of savory rosemary and sweet, buttery shortbread strikes a perfect balance. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make and can be customized with festive decorations or left simple and elegant. Perfect for cozy family gatherings, they also add a homemade touch to any gift basket or cookie platter.
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Green sanding sugar, for decoration
– Royal icing and decorative sprinkles (optional)
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer
– Plastic wrap
– Rolling pin
– Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to experiment by adding a touch of lemon zest for a citrusy spark or swapping granulated sugar for brown sugar to introduce a hint of caramel. If you prefer something sweeter, drizzle with a bit of melted chocolate.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Mix in the rosemary and vanilla extract.
2. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt, blending until just combined.
3. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut out cookies using a Christmas tree-shaped cutter and place them on the baking sheet.
6. Decorate with green sanding sugar or reserve the decorating for post-baking with icing and sprinkles.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the edges turn golden. Cool on a wire rack.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these delightful cookies with a hot cup of herbal tea or mulled wine. They’re a perfect accompaniment to any holiday spread and are similarly delicious alongside creamy desserts like panna cotta.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure the butter is properly softened for easy mixing.
– Avoid overmixing the dough to maintain that tender, crumbly texture.
– If rolling the dough is tricky, chill it a bit longer to make it more manageable.
Storing and Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, warm them slightly in the oven to refresh their aroma and texture.
FAQ Section
Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?
Absolutely, though fresh rosemary offers a more vibrant flavor. Use about half the quantity if using dried.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free baking mix.
Conclusion
Whether you’re making them for your holiday feast or wrapping them up as a love-filled gift, Rosemary Shortbread Christmas Tree Cookies embody festive cheer and homemade goodness. Snap a picture and share your creations on Instagram or Pinterest – I’d love to see your holiday baking in action!
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per cookie)
Calories: 120
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 1g
