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Irresistible Christmas Tree Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Christmas tree shortbread cookies - featured image
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These buttery, crumbly Christmas tree shortbread cookies with vanilla glaze are a festive treat perfect for holiday celebrations and decorating fun.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup (86 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) milk
  • 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar (for the glaze)
  • 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) milk (for the glaze)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the glaze)
  • Decorations: Sprinkles, edible glitter, or crushed candy canes

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (226 grams) of unsalted butter and 2/3 cup (86 grams) of powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Mix in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
  3. Gradually add 2 cups (240 grams) of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough seems dry, add 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of milk.
  4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use Christmas tree cookie cutters to cut out shapes, transferring them to the prepared baking sheets.
  7. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup (120 grams) of powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
  9. Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle or spread the vanilla glaze over each cookie. Add sprinkles, edible glitter, or crushed candy canes immediately before the glaze sets.
  10. Let the cookies sit for about 30 minutes to allow the glaze to harden. Then, they’re ready to enjoy!

Notes

Chilling the dough is crucial for maintaining the shape of the cookies during baking. Test bake one cookie first to ensure the thickness and baking time are perfect.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas cookies, shortbread cookies, holiday dessert, vanilla glaze, festive treats

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/irresistible-christmas-tree-shortbread-cookies-recipe/