Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies are a delightful treat that combines festive cheer with a simple baking experience. Imagine gathering around the kitchen with friends and family, laughter filling the room as you cut out cookies shaped like Christmas trees. Each cookie stacked high with colorful frosting and candy sprinkles shines like a holiday ornament. The joy of creating something beautiful and delicious together makes these cookies special. Plus, they’re easy enough for kids to join in, making it a perfect family activity. As you prepare to bake, let the excitement build; it’s not just about the cookies, but the memories you’ll make along the way!

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Why This Recipe Works

The magic of Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies lies in the combination of rich butter and sugar. This duo creates cookies that are both tender and flavorful. Chilling the dough is another crucial step. It helps with handling and ensures your cookies maintain a lovely shape while baking. Plus, the use of frosting as an adhesive, along with a decorative touch, elevates these cookies to true festive showstoppers.

Why You’ll Love This Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

There are so many reasons to love these cookies! Not only do they taste delicious, but they also serve as a charming centerpiece for your holiday celebrations. Imagine placing them on a festive platter, ready to impress your guests. Baking these cookies is a wonderful activity for families, bringing everyone together in the kitchen. The best part? Their customizable nature means you can decorate them to reflect your Christmas theme perfectly.

Ingredients

To make your Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 can prepared frosting or homemade icing
• Nonpareils or other candy decorations

How to Make Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and pure vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step creates a base that is essential for your cookie’s texture.

Blend in Flour and Salt

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the creamed butter and sugar. Blend on low speed until everything is fully combined. It will form a consistent, soft dough.

Chill the Dough

Now comes an important step: wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out later. Plus, it enhances the flavor!

Roll Out the Dough

When the dough is ready, place it on a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick. Then, use cookie cutters of varying sizes to cut out cookie shapes that will form your Christmas tree.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly. Place the cut-out cookie shapes on the sheet and bake for approximately 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’re looking for just a golden edge to know they’re ready.

Frost and Decorate

After baking, let the cookies cool completely. Once they are cool, spread frosting around the edges of the round cookies. Roll them in nonpareils or other candy decorations to give them a festive look.

Assemble the Christmas Trees

To assemble your adorable Christmas trees, place a dollop of frosting in the center of the largest cookie. Top it with the medium-sized cookie, adding another dollop of frosting. Complete the tree with the smallest cookie shape on top. Secure everything with more frosting and sprinkle additional decorations to make it shine!

Serving Suggestions

Your Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies will look gorgeous served on a festive platter. Pair them with a cup of hot cocoa or a refreshing glass of milk for a delightful holiday treat. They can even serve as unique gifts for neighbors and friends.

Tips for Success

A few tips ensure your cookie baking experience goes smoothly:

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature. It makes creaming easier.
• Keep an eye on the baking time! Overbaking can take away from that perfect softness.
• Don’t hesitate to add flavorings, like almond extract or your favorite spices, for an extra flavor kick.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with your cookies! You can swap out traditional decorations for themed sprinkles that match your holiday color scheme. If you’re in the mood for something chocolatey, substitute 1 cup of all-purpose flour with cocoa powder for a delightful twist.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have any cookies left (though it’s unlikely!), store the decorated cookies at room temperature in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, perfect for enjoying or gifting later.

Pairing Ideas

These cookies pair exceptionally well with peppermint tea or spiced cider. They make an excellent addition to any holiday gathering, complementing your festive drinks beautifully.

FAQs

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it before rolling and baking for the best results.

What kind of frosting works best?
Both store-bought and homemade frostings are great. A thicker consistency holds decorations better, so keep that in mind.

Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! Replace all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free blend.

How can I make the cookies softer?
For softer cookies, try slightly underbaking them. They will continue to firm up while cooling.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids enjoy decorating these cookies, so it’s a fun family activity anyone can join.

Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies are not just a recipe; they’re a way to bring joy and festive spirit into your home this holiday season. Their colorful appearance and delightful flavors will undoubtedly become an instant favorite among those who taste them. Remember, it’s all about enjoying each step, from baking to decorating, and creating lasting memories in your kitchen. Happy baking!

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