Name: Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp baking powder; 2 tsp vanilla extract; Gel food coloring (as needed); Royal icing (for decorating)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through the air, as colorful layers of frosting dance with joy, creating a delightful sight. Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies are not just treats; they’re edible masterpieces that celebrate the spirit of the season, inviting everyone to partake in their sugary splendor.

These delightful cookies hold a special place in my heart; I remember making them with my grandmother every year, her laughter echoing through the kitchen as we crafted these whimsical trees. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home, these cookies promise a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.

Why You'll Love This Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

This incredible Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies:

All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure, choose a high-quality flour to ensure the best texture.
Granulated Sugar: A key sweetener that brings balance to the flavors in your cookies.
Butter: Unsalted and softened butter guarantees a rich taste and perfect consistency in your dough.
Eggs: Two large eggs will help bind your cookie dough together and add moisture.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent makes your cookies rise beautifully without losing their shape.
Vanilla Extract: For a warm and inviting flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Food Coloring: Use gel food coloring to create vibrant shades for your festive decorating.
Royal Icing: The magic glue that holds your stacked trees together and adds that extra touch of sweetness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies:

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients until well combined.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover your cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour. This helps prevent spreading during baking and ensures that those tree shapes stay intact.

Step 4: Shape Your Trees

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to about a quarter-inch thickness. Use tree-shaped cookie cutters of various sizes to cut out shapes.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Place cut-out tree shapes on parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake in preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cooling on racks.

Step 6: Decorate!

Once cooled, it’s time to unleash your inner artist! Use royal icing mixed with food coloring to decorate each cookie as you stack them into beautiful Christmas trees.

Transfer to plates and revel in your creation; serve them at holiday parties or gift them wrapped up pretty for friends!

And there you have it! A fun and festive treat that’s sure to become a cherished tradition in your family too! So gather around the kitchen with loved ones this holiday season and let the cookie stacking commence!

You Must Know About Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

This showstopping Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by preheating the oven and lining your baking sheets. Mix the cookie dough first, then chill it while preparing your icing. Bake the cookies, allowing them to cool completely before decorating. This sequence ensures efficiency and perfect results every time.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out vanilla extract for almond extract in the cookie dough for a unique twist. Add colorful sprinkles or chocolate chips into the dough for extra flair. You can also experiment with different icing colors to match your holiday theme!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them between layers of parchment paper. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies

This professional-quality Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sharing my first attempt at making Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies always brings a smile; my friends thought I was launching a bakery! The joy on their faces when tasting those cookies made every sprinkle worth it.

FAQs

What are Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies?

Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies are delightful holiday treats that resemble festive Christmas trees. They are made from layers of cookies stacked upon one another, often decorated with vibrant icing and sprinkles to mimic ornaments. These cookies not only taste amazing but also serve as a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. You can customize the flavors and colors to match your holiday theme, making them a fun and creative baking project for families and friends alike.

How do I make Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies?

To make Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies, start by preparing your favorite cookie dough. Roll it out and cut it into various tree shapes using cookie cutters. Bake until golden brown, then allow them to cool. Once cooled, stack the cookies in decreasing sizes to form a tree shape. Decorate with green icing and colorful candies to enhance their festive appeal. This simple process makes it easy to create beautiful holiday cookies that everyone will love.

Can I use different flavors for Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different flavors for Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies. Consider using chocolate, gingerbread, or even vanilla to create a variety of tastes. Each layer can feature a unique flavor, allowing you to surprise your guests with each bite. Adding flavor extracts like peppermint or almond can also elevate these cookies and make them even more festive during the holiday season.

How should I store my Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies?

To keep your Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to maintain their crispness, consider adding a slice of bread inside the container to help absorb moisture. For longer storage, you can freeze them by wrapping each cookie in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy these delightful treats even after the holiday season ends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Stacked Christmas Tree Cookies are a fun and creative way to celebrate the holiday season. With layers of delicious cookie goodness and vibrant decorations, they bring joy to any gathering. By experimenting with flavors and personalizing the decorations, you can create stunning treats that everyone will adore. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake these charming cookies that will surely brighten your holiday festivities!