Name: Delicious Sugar Tree Cookies to Brighten Your Holidays
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 1 cup Sugar (Granulated); 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 teaspoon Almond Extract (Optional); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Powdered Sugar; 1 tablespoon Meringue Powder (Optional); 5 tablespoons Water; Decorative Sprinkles (Festive colors)

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The sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen instantly transports you to a holiday wonderland. These Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies promise to be a festive favorite, combining buttery goodness with a delightful hint of vanilla. Each cookie boasts a crisp edge and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center, making them an irresistible treat for holiday gatherings or cozy baking afternoons with loved ones. Not only are they a feast for the eyes—decorated with smooth royal icing and shimmering sugar pearls—but they’re also incredibly fun to make, allowing everyone to unleash their creativity. If you’re on the lookout for a family-friendly recipe that will warm your hearts and home, look no further! Ready to embark on this flavorful journey together?

Why These Cookies Will Steal the Show?

Irresistible joy: The combination of a buttery base and vanilla notes creates a cookie that’s simply unforgettable during the holidays.
Creative fun: Decorating with royal icing and sparkles allows for uniquely personalized cookies, perfect for family fun!
Crisp yet soft: Enjoy the delightful contrast of crisp edges and a tender center in every bite.
Festive appeal: These cookies add a vibrant touch to any holiday spread, making them a centerpiece worthy of admiration.
Easy success: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can shine in the kitchen with these cookies.

Pair them with a cozy cup of hot chocolate for an even sweeter experience, or explore Cookies and Cream Cupcakes for more festive deliciousness!

Sugar Tree Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and tender texture; use salted if unsalted isn’t available, but reduce added salt.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
• Egg – Binds and adds moisture; essential for the traditional cookie texture.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; substitute with peppermint extract for a festive twist.
• Almond Extract – Adds depth of flavor; omit if nut allergies are a concern, or replace with extra vanilla.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structure; can use a gluten-free flour blend as an alternative.
• Baking Powder – Ensures the cookies rise; check its freshness for best results.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; vital for a harmonious taste.

For the Royal Icing
• Powdered Sugar – The key component for royal icing; can opt for store-bought icing if preferred.
• Meringue Powder – Stabilizes icing for a smooth finish; can omit, but the icing may not hold as well.
• Water – Hydrates icing for the right consistency; essential for perfect piping.

For Decoration
• Decorative Sprinkles – Adds visual appeal and crunch; choose festive colors to celebrate the holidays.

These delightful Sugar Tree Cookies will become a cherished addition to your holiday traditions, bringing joy and creative fun to your kitchen and gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Tree Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Begin by creaming together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is fluffy and light, about 3-5 minutes. Next, beat in 1 egg along with 1 teaspoon each of vanilla and almond extracts until fully incorporated, creating a smooth and creamy base for your Sugar Tree Cookies.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the butter mixture, blending just until combined. This ensures your dough will be well-mixed but not overworked, leading to tender, delightful cookies.

Step 3: Chill Dough
Once the dough is combined, shape it into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling step makes the dough easier to roll out and helps the cookies hold their shape while baking, preventing them from spreading too much.

Step 4: Shape Cookies
After chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly flour a clean countertop, then roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Using a cookie cutter shaped like a tree, cut out your Sugar Tree Cookies and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, then remove from the oven to cool.

Step 5: Cool Completely
Transfer the baked cookies to wire racks to cool completely, which will take about 15-20 minutes. This cooling process is crucial before decorating, as warm cookies can cause the icing to melt and lose its beautiful design.

Step 6: Make Royal Icing
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the royal icing by mixing 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of meringue powder, and about 5 tablespoons of water in a medium bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat until the icing is smooth and holds a stiff peak, about 5 minutes. This icing will create a beautiful, glossy finish for your Sugar Tree Cookies.

Step 7: Decorate
Once the cookies are cool, use a piping bag or a small spatula to apply the royal icing onto each cookie. You can flood the cookies with additional icing for a more polished look. Immediately sprinkle with decorative sprinkles or edible glitter to add that festive touch to your Sugar Tree Cookies.

Step 8: Dry Icing
Allow your decorated cookies to dry at room temperature for 4-6 hours or overnight, if possible. This drying time is essential for the royal icing to set firmly. Once dry, your beautifully decorated Sugar Tree Cookies are ready to be enjoyed or gifted!

Sugar Tree Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Customize your baking experience with delightful variations to make these cookies truly yours!

Flavor Boost: Add citrus zest like lemon or orange to the dough for a refreshing twist.
Nut-Free: Use vanilla extract exclusively if there are nut allergies—skip the almond to ensure safety.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend to allow everyone to enjoy these treats.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate instead of royal icing for a rich alternative.
Different Shapes: Use various cookie cutters for different festive shapes like stars or bells to match the occasion.
Peppermint Delight: Replace vanilla extract with peppermint extract for a holiday-inspired flavor boost.
Spiced Cookies: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and cozy taste.

Feel free to be adventurous and let your creativity flow as you decorate your cookies! For a sweet treat to pair with your baking, try these Cookies and Cream Cupcakes or indulge in some Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots for a well-rounded holiday meal!

Expert Tips for Sugar Tree Cookies

Chill the Dough: Ensure you chill the dough for at least 1 hour. This prevents spreading during baking, resulting in well-defined cookie shapes.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Check that your baking powder is fresh for optimal rising. Stale baking powder can lead to cookies that are flat instead of fluffy.

Pipe with Care: When applying royal icing, use a piping bag for precision. This will give your Sugar Tree Cookies a professional, polished finish.

Let Them Dry: Allow decorated cookies to dry completely for 4-6 hours. This prevents smudging and ensures the royal icing hardens nicely.

Try Flavor Variations: Boost the flavors by adding citrus zest or swap almond extract for extra vanilla. Creative touches can make your cookies even more delightful.

Storage Tips for Sugar Tree Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Sugar Tree Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the cookies, but they should be enjoyed within 5 days for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating: Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature before decorating; do not heat, as it may compromise their delicate texture.

What to Serve with Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies

These festive cookies are not just a treat on their own; they create a perfect backdrop for a delightful holiday gathering.

Hot Chocolate: The rich, creamy texture of hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with the buttery sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy experience.
Spiced Cider: This warm, aromatic drink complements the cookies’ sweetness, adding a festive and comforting flair to your celebration.
Milk: A classic pairing, the cool creaminess of milk enhances the cookies’ rich flavor, making each bite even more indulgent.
Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like apples and oranges provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, balancing flavors beautifully.
Cheese Board: A selection of soft cheeses, particularly brie or cream cheese, can create a satisfying mix of savory and sweet on your holiday table.
Festive Cake: Consider serving a light fruit cake. Its density and fruity notes create an elegant counterpoint to the sparkling sweetness of the cookies.
Nutty Biscotti: Dipping biscotti in coffee or tea alongside these cookies brings a delightful textural experience to your dessert course.
Gingerbread Tea: The warming spices in gingerbread tea harmonize beautifully with the vanilla notes in the cookies, enhancing the festive cheer.
Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink wraps you in holiday warmth when enjoyed alongside the delightful sugary treats, ensuring your festivities are merry and bright.

Make Ahead Options

These Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies are perfect for busy cooks looking for make-ahead options! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape it into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. For decorating, you can also make the royal icing and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before using to ensure it’s smooth again. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to soften for a few minutes, then roll, cut, and bake as usual. With these prep tips, you can enjoy delightful, fresh-baked cookies with minimal last-minute effort!

Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies?
I recommend using unsalted butter for these cookies as it provides a rich, buttery flavor without any additional salt that can alter the sweetness. If you’re in a pinch and only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe to maintain the right balance of flavors!

How should I store my cookies after baking?
To keep your Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature before adding any icing or decoration.

Can I freeze decorated Sugar Tree Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze decorated cookies, but it’s essential to let the icing dry completely first—this usually takes about 4-6 hours or overnight. Once the icing has set, package the cookies in a single layer with parchment between each to prevent sticking and place them in a freezer-safe container.

Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies spread too much, it could be due to insufficient chilling of the dough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 1 hour before rolling it out. Also, ensure you’ve measured your flour accurately—too little flour can lead to spreading. Lastly, using fresh baking powder will help the cookies maintain their shape!

Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies are not safe for pets. The sugar and butter can be harmful to their digestive systems, and the almond extract may pose a risk for pets with nut allergies. Always keep your baked goods securely stored and away from curious paws!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! If you’re looking to make gluten-free Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend specifically designed for baking. Ensure that the blend includes sufficient leavening agents, as some gluten-free flours can be denser. This way, everyone can enjoy a festive treat!