The holiday season is synonymous with festive decorations, joyful gatherings, and delightful treats. Among these, Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies stand out as a quintessential holiday dessert. Their vibrant red hue and charming tree shapes make them a perfect addition to your holiday traditions. Paired with decorative icing, they become a canvas for edible art, ready to impress your family and guests alike.
For inspiration on other creative holiday desserts, you might explore Christmas Tree Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing, another fun treat for the season.
Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need
For the Cookies:
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2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tsp baking powder
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1/2 tsp baking soda
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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3/4 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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1 large egg
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tbsp red food coloring
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1/3 cup buttermilk
For the Royal Icing:
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3 cups powdered sugar
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2 tbsp meringue powder
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4–5 tbsp water (adjust as needed)
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Gel food coloring (white, green, and red)
Tools:
- Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutters
- Piping bags with various tips
- Baking sheets lined with parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Mixing bowls and a whisk
How to Make Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies
Prepare the Cookie Dough:
Chill and Cut Out Cookies:
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out tree shapes using a cookie cutter and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake the Cookies:
Decorate with Royal Icing:
Add Finishing Touches:
Tips for Success
- Chill the Dough: Prevent spreading during baking by keeping the dough cold.
- Test Icing Consistency: Ensure the frosting is firm enough to hold its shape when piped.
- Storage: Store decorated cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
Presentation and Gifting Ideas
- Gift Packaging: Place cookies in decorative tins with parchment paper between layers.
- Event Displays: Arrange on a festive platter or pair with hot be
verages like cocoa or cider.
For a festive pairing, consider this recipe for Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese Topping, a sweet and tangy addition to your holiday table.
FAQs
How long do Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container, these cookies can stay fresh for up to 7 days.
Can I freeze the dough or decorated cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Decorated cookies can also be frozen but should be stored carefully to avoid smudging.
How do I fix runny or thick frosting?
- If too thick, add a small amount of milk.
- If too runny, add powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
