Name: Irresistible Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks for Festive Fun
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Essential for structure; measure accurately for the best results.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Adds a slight lift for a pleasant texture.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.); 0.75 cups Unsalted Butter (Softened) (Creams with sugar to create a tender crumb; make sure it's softened.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Primary sweetness that helps achieve a delicate crisp edge.); 1 large Egg (Binds the dough, contributing to its richness.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Provides a warm flavor; opt for high-quality vanilla.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Creates a smooth icing for the cookies.); 2 tablespoons Milk/Water (Adjusts the glaze consistency to your preference.); a few drops Green Gel Food Coloring (Offers vibrant color without watering down the glaze.); 1 cup Fine Green Sanding Sugar (Gives a dazzling finish that stays put on your cookies.); as needed Mini Gingerbread Cookies (Cute accents to add character to your festive stacks.); as desired Sprinkles (Red and Gold) (Fun toppings for an extra festive flair.); as needed White Icing Pen/Royal Icing (Ideal for detailed decoration on the mini gingerbread cookies.)

You know that feeling when you walk into a cozy kitchen filled with the warm scent of freshly baked cookies? That’s exactly the vibe I’d love for you to capture as we dive into the magic of my Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks. This festive treat is not only a delight to your taste buds but also a visual showstopper with a unique “stay-put sparkle” decoration technique that keeps the glittery sugar in place. Perfect for novice bakers, these cookies are easy to whip up and can quickly transform into cherished holiday gifts or dazzling centerpiece delights at your gatherings. Plus, they can easily be made gluten-free, making them inclusive for everyone at your holiday table. So, ready to create some merry moments in your kitchen? Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Why Make These Festive Cookie Stacks?

Vibrant Visual Appeal: The playful Christmas Tree shape topped with sparkling sugar creates an eye-catching centerpiece that draws everyone in.

Unique Decoration Technique: The “stay-put sparkle” ensures your cookies maintain their festive look, making them perfect for decorating or gifting.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: These cookies are melt-in-your-mouth delicious and a delightful twist on traditional holiday treats—sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can master this recipe in no time.

Gluten-Free Friendly: Simply swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy these sweet delights!

For more festive inspiration, check out my delicious Mexican Street Corn side that pairs wonderfully with holiday meals.

Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; measure accurately for the best results.
Baking Powder – Adds a slight lift for a pleasant texture.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Unsalted Butter (Softened) – Creams with sugar to create a tender crumb; make sure it’s softened, not melted.
Granulated Sugar – Primary sweetness that helps achieve a delicate crisp edge.
Large Egg – Binds the dough, contributing to its richness and structure.
Vanilla Extract – Provides a warm flavor; opt for high-quality vanilla for the best taste.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Creates a smooth icing for the cookies.
Milk/Water – Adjusts the glaze consistency to your preference; use as needed.
Green Gel Food Coloring – Offers vibrant color without watering down the glaze.

For the Decoration

Fine Green Sanding Sugar – Gives a dazzling finish that stays put on your cookies.
Mini Gingerbread Cookies – Cute accents to add character to your festive stacks.
Sprinkles (Red and Gold) – Fun toppings for an extra festive flair.
White Icing Pen/Royal Icing – Ideal for detailed decoration on the mini gingerbread cookies.

Tools Needed

Mixing Bowls – Keep your ingredients organized for easy mixing.
Electric Mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugar efficient and easy.
Rolling Pin – Ensures your dough is uniformly thick for even baking.
Christmas Tree Cookie Cutter – Cut out those delightful tree shapes.
Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and aids in easy transfer of cookies.
Wire Cooling Racks – Let your cookies cool evenly before decorating.
Pastry Brush – For applying glaze evenly and thoroughly.
Shallow Dish/Plate – Perfect for coating cookies with sanding sugar.

Embrace the magic of the season with these Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks, and let each bite transport you to a cozy, festive celebration!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks

Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt thoroughly. This helps combine the dry ingredients evenly and aerates the flour, preparing a light texture for your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks. Set this bowl aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process incorporates air into the butter, which will help your cookies rise beautifully.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add in one large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until just combined, ensuring that everything blends nicely. This step brings richness to your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks, enhancing their delightful flavor profile.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture from Step 1 to your wet ingredients. Mix on low speed, just until a soft dough forms, about 30 seconds. This avoids overmixing, which can toughen the cookies. You should be able to see the ingredients coming together to form a cohesive dough.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten each into a disk, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough prevents spreading during baking, helping your Christmas Tree shapes maintain their festive look.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper, which prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup. Preheating is essential to ensure even baking right from the start.

Step 7: Roll and Cut the Cookies
After the dough has chilled, roll it out on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Use a Christmas tree cookie cutter to cut out shapes, placing them on the prepared baking sheets. This step transforms your dough into delightful trees ready for baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as you want the centers to remain soft and not overbake. This is where the magic begins, as your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks start taking shape!

Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire cooling racks. Letting them cool completely helps firm them up, ensuring they’re ready for glazing without breaking.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar and enough milk or water to achieve a smooth consistency—about 1-2 tablespoons. Add a few drops of green gel food coloring, stirring until evenly distributed. This glaze will add a vibrant shine to your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks!

Step 11: Glaze the Cookies
Use a pastry brush to lightly coat each cooled cookie with the glaze, making sure to cover the tops thoroughly. Immediately press the glazed tops into a plate filled with fine green sanding sugar to create that “stay-put sparkle” effect around the cookies.

Step 12: Assemble the Stacks
After the decorated cookies have dried for about 30 minutes, assemble them by stacking a cookie atop a fluted base or using mini gingerbread cookies as layers. This creates an eye-catching presentation perfect for festive gatherings, and your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks will be ready to shine!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks

Airtight Container: Store your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Refrigeration: If you’d like them to last longer, place the cookies in the fridge for up to 10 days, ensuring they’re well-wrapped to prevent dryness.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw your cookies at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before serving to restore their delightful texture.

Expert Tips for Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks

Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading and maintains those beautiful shapes during baking.
Perfect Glaze Consistency: Your glaze should coat the back of a spoon flawlessly. If it’s too thick, add a little milk; if too thin, sprinkle in more powdered sugar for the right texture.
Gentle Glaze Application: Use a light hand when brushing on the glaze to avoid clumping the sanding sugar. This ensures a smooth, beautiful finish on your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks.
Allow Drying Time: Let the glazed cookies dry completely before stacking or serving. This helps the sugar adhere firmly and avoids accidental smudging.
Keep Dough Chilled: If you’re baking multiple batches, remember to keep any unused dough chilled to maintain the ideal working consistency.

Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks Variations

Ready to make your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks uniquely yours? Let your creativity shine with these delightful twists.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Different Shapes: Use various cookie cutters such as stars or snowflakes to create a festive assortment, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Flavor Infusions: Add 1 teaspoon of almond or peppermint extract to the dough for a delightful twist on flavor. It can create a cherished holiday aroma and taste.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate and drizzle it over the glazed cookies for a rich addition that elevates the treat to new levels of indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the dough for added texture and flavor. If you’re a fan of extra crunch, this variation will become a favorite!
Colorful Sprinkles: Replace the sanding sugar with festive sprinkles in various colors to match your holiday theme, making these cookies truly eye-catching.
Soft Icing: Swap the glaze with a cream cheese frosting for a richer and creamier topping that pairs perfectly with the cookie’s flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or ginger to the dough for a warm spice that perfectly complements the festive season.

For more festive delights, consider pairing these cookies with some delightful Chocolate Chip Cookies as a sweet gift or a side treat at your holiday table! Enjoy every delicious moment!

What to Serve with Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks

Let’s take your holiday gathering to the next level with these charming cookies that are as delightful on the plate as they are to taste!

Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy texture of hot cocoa pairs perfectly with the sweetness of these cookies, creating a cozy, festive experience.
Eggnog: A classic holiday drink, eggnog’s creamy and spiced flavors complement the sugary cookies, making every bite feel like a celebration.
Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits add a vibrant contrast and a refreshing crunch, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies while adding a pop of color to your spread.
Cheese Board: The savory notes from a selection of cheeses can beautifully balance the sweetness of the cookies. A mixture of soft and hard cheeses elevates the taste even further.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage infused with aromatic spices provides comfort on chilly days, making it a delightful companion to the festive cookie stacks.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures, delightfully melting into every bite of your sugary stacks.
Holiday Cake: Serve a slice of spiced or chocolate cake for a more decadent option; the richness will pair well with the light and sweet cookies.
Gingerbread Lattes: Blend the flavors of gingerbread cookies with creamy coffee, creating a delicious drink that complements the cookies beautifully.

Consider these options to create a holiday feast that will warm the hearts of your loved ones and turn your gathering into a cherished memory!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply divide it into disks, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The baked cookies can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 7 days, or frozen for up to 3 months before glazing. When you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats, simply thaw the cookies if frozen, glaze them, and let the icing dry for about 30 minutes. Preparing ahead allows you to focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with family and friends while still delivering delicious homemade holiday cheer!

Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ingredients are fresh?
Absolutely! For your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks, make sure your baking powder is within its expiration date and is still active. You can test its freshness by adding a teaspoon to warm water; if it bubbles, it’s good to go! For flour, check for any dark spots or an off smell as indicators that it might be stale.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very! To keep your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 5-7 days. If you’re worried about moisture, adding a piece of bread to the container can help absorb excess moisture and keep the cookies soft!

Can I freeze my Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before serving.

Why did my cookies spread more than expected?
No worries! If your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks spread too much, it may be because the dough wasn’t chilled long enough or the butter was too warm. Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes to ensure that it holds its shape during baking, and make sure your butter is softened, not melted!

What if someone has a gluten allergy?
The more the merrier! You can easily make these cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that all other ingredients like baking powder and sprinkles are also gluten-free to keep your festive treat safe for everyone.

How can I achieve the perfect glaze consistency?
For the glaze on your Christmas Tree Cookie Stacks, you’ll want it to coat the back of a spoon nicely but not be too thick. Start with 1 cup of powdered sugar and add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or water gradually, stirring until smooth. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it up!