Name: Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks that Bring Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature); 1 cup sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract (can be omitted); 3 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups powdered sugar; 0.5 cup water or milk (adjust to desired consistency); as needed green gel icing color; as needed pearl sprinkles; as needed yellow star sprinkles

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The scent of freshly baked cookies fills the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy kitchen aglow with holiday cheer. There’s something magical about crafting these Festive Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks; they not only look like an edible decoration but also bring out the inner child in everyone. With their buttery sweetness and soft-crisp texture, it’s a delightful way to warm hearts over the festive season. Plus, they make for a collaborative activity with loved ones and are a surefire way to impress at any holiday gathering. Trust me, you’re going to love how easy it is to make these charming treats! Ready to spread some festive cheer with your own cookie masterpiece? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks Special?

Delightfully Fun: Everyone will love assembling their own festive tree, making this baking project a joyful experience for all ages.
Buttery Sweetness: The rich, buttery flavor combined with playful decorations creates cookies that are impossible to resist.
Eye-Catching Display: These cookie stacks not only taste delicious but also serve as stunning holiday décor for your table.
Easy to Customize: Whether you want to add peppermint extract for a twist or use different sprinkles, these cookies are versatile!
Perfect for Sharing: Their whimsical charm makes them an excellent gift or contribution to cookie exchanges; they’ll surely be a hit!
These Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks are sure to spread holiday cheer, just like my Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies or Biscoff Cookie Butter. Grab your baking essentials and let’s create some magic!

Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks Ingredients

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to make your delightful Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks!

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; using salted butter? Just reduce the additional salt.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies for a delightful taste.
Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture for soft cookies.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; feel free to swap with any vanilla essence.
Almond Extract – Adds a unique nutty flavor; can be omitted or replaced with more vanilla.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure; for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free all-purpose flour!
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, making your cookies rise perfectly.
Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dough.

For the Icing

Powdered Sugar – Essential for a smooth, sweet icing finish.
Water or Milk – Adjusts icing consistency for easy decorating; choose milk for an extra creamy touch.
Green Gel Icing Color – Adds vibrant color perfect for decorating your cookie trees.

For the Festive Finish

Pearl Sprinkles – A decorative touch to create that festive appearance.
Yellow Star Sprinkles – Use these to resemble stars atop your cookie trees, adding extra charm!

Creating these Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks is a breeze with the right ingredients, bringing a mix of fun and cheer to your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks

Step 1: Prepare Cookie Dough
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. Next, blend in one egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. This will form the flavorful base for your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky—a perfect foundation for your festive cookie shapes.

Step 3: Chill Dough
To make handling the dough easier, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will help solidify the butter, resulting in cookies that hold their shape while baking. While the dough chills, you can prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 4: Shape Cookies
Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ½ inch thick. Use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks. Place the cut-out shapes onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This will allow them to bake evenly and give enough room to expand without overlapping.

Step 5: Bake
Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cookies are done when the edges turn lightly golden while the center remains soft. Remove them from the oven and let cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Decorate
To make the icing, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar with water or milk until you reach your desired consistency. Add green gel icing color until it reaches a vibrant hue. Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously spread or drizzle the green icing onto each tree-shaped cookie. Finish with pearl and yellow star sprinkles to create a beautiful edible decoration that makes each Christmas Tree Cookie Stack shine.

What to Serve with Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks

Looking to elevate your holiday celebrations? Pair these delightful treats with complementary foods that create a full festive spread.

Hot Cocoa Bar: Indulge in rich, creamy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and festive marshmallows, perfect for sipping alongside your cookies.
Gingerbread Men: These spiced, chewy cookies offer contrasting flavors and textures—great for a nostalgic holiday touch on your dessert tray.
Peppermint Bark: The cool crunch of peppermint bark pairs beautifully with the buttery sweetness of the cookie stacks for an enjoyable flavor balance.
Sugar Cookies: Soft and classic, a batch of traditional sugar cookies, perhaps with a hint of vanilla, will harmonize wonderfully with your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks.
Holiday Fruit Punch: A fruity, spiced punch not only refreshes but also brings a festive color to the table, delighting both appearance and taste.
Cheese Platter: Add a savory element with an assortment of cheeses, dried fruits, and nuts for a sophisticated pairing that complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks

Airtight Container: Store decorated Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep their freshness and texture intact.

Refrigeration: If you expect the decorated cookies to last longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just be cautious, as refrigeration can slightly alter their texture.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the un-decorated cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Decorate them once thawed.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature; there’s no need to reheat, as they are perfect chilled or at room temp!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks are perfect for meal prep during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to prevent it from drying out. The shaped cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this, layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. For icing, it’s best to prepare right before decorating to maintain its vibrant color and consistency. By prepping ahead, you’ll save time and have delightful treats ready to impress your guests!

Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookie stacks; the possibilities are as endless as your holiday joy!

Minty Twist: Swap the almond extract with peppermint extract for a refreshing holiday flavor that will dazzle your taste buds.
Royal Icing: Use royal icing instead of the basic icing for more intricate designs and stunning decor; it’s perfect for those master pastry moments!
Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour to cater to gluten-sensitive friends and family without compromising flavor.
Flavored Sprinkles: Explore using different themed sprinkles—think red and green for Christmas or gold and silver for a New Year’s celebration!
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a chocolate drizzle over the icing for a rich twist; the sweet bitterness complements the sugar cookie beautifully.
Coconut Topping: Top with shredded coconut after icing for a snowy effect that not only enhances visual appeal but adds flavor and texture too.
Layered Surprise: Create cookie sandwiches by adding a thin layer of frosting between two cookies; it’s a delightful surprise that the kids will love.
Spiced Variations: Incorporate seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cookie dough for an aromatic holiday experience; it will fill your kitchen with the scents of the season.

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to check out my Cotton Candy Cookies for a whimsical treat or add a tropical twist with these Mango Cookies Delightful. Customize your cookie stacks and enjoy the creativity!

Tips for the Best Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks

Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming and incorporation of air, leading to fluffier cookies.
Don’t Overbake: Keeping a close eye while baking is key; the cookies will firm up as they cool, so remove them when they’re still soft in the center.
Cool Before Icing: Allow your cookies to cool completely prior to decorating to ensure the icing doesn’t melt and lose its shape, preserving those festive artful designs.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the cookies keep their festive Christmas tree shape and prevents spreading in the oven.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap almond extract for peppermint for a seasonal twist or try different colored icing for more variety in your cookie stacks.

Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right butter for my Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for unsalted butter at room temperature. This allows for proper creaming with sugar, which is essential for fluffy cookies. If only salted butter is available, just reduce the additional salt in the recipe to balance flavors.

How should I store my Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks?
To keep your cookies fresh, store the decorated Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just keep in mind that refrigeration can slightly alter their texture, making them less crisp.

Can I freeze Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks?
Certainly! For freezing, I recommend waiting until your cookies are completely cooled. Then, arrange the un-decorated cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag or an airtight container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature and then feel free to decorate!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your cookie dough seems too sticky to work with, you might have added too much moisture or not enough flour. Gradually incorporate a little more flour until the dough reaches a workable consistency. Also, remember that chilling the dough can often help handle stickiness, making it easier to roll and shape.

Are there any dietary considerations for my Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks?
While this recipe doesn’t specify dietary restrictions, it’s important to consider any allergies—especially nut allergies if you’re using almond extract. You can simply replace almond extract with additional vanilla or try a peppermint extract for a fun twist. Also, remember that these cookies contain egg and dairy, so they aren’t suitable for vegans.

How can I ensure my cookies don’t spread too much during baking?
The key is to chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before shaping and baking. This solidifies the butter, helping the cookies maintain their shape. Also, make sure your baking sheets are lined with parchment paper—this not only prevents sticking but also helps with even baking. Happy baking!