Get ready to transform your holiday baking into a winter wonderland of deliciousness! These Christmas Holly Tree Cookies aren't just desserts—they're edible works of art that will make your kitchen smell like pure holiday cheer. Imagine biting into a perfectly soft, buttery cookie shaped like an adorable holly tree, dusted with powdered sugar like a gentle Christmas snow. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these cookies are guaranteed to become your new favorite seasonal tradition that will have everyone asking, "Can you share your secret recipe?"
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Green and red sprinkles
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this dry mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue to beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Using a spatula or your hands, gently fold in the green and red sprinkles into the cookie dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Using your hands, gently shape each ball of dough into a triangular shape to resemble a holly tree. You can flatten the tops slightly to help them hold their shape while baking.
- Once all the cookies are shaped, place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, which is fine as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
- Enjoy your Christmas Holly Tree Cookies with family and friends during the holiday season!
Tips
- • Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted for the perfect cookie texture • Use room temperature egg for better ingredient incorporation • Don't overmix the dough—this keeps cookies tender • When shaping cookies, wet your hands slightly to prevent dough from sticking • Use a light touch when dusting powdered sugar for an elegant finish • Let cookies cool completely before storing to maintain their crisp texture • Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and delicious • For extra festive flair, consider using holiday-themed sprinkle mixes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
