Christmas Tree Shortbread Cookies

by

🎄 Christmas Tree Shortbread Cookies

Buttery, Festive Shortbread Cookies Decorated Like Mini Christmas Trees

These Christmas Tree Shortbread Cookies are everything the holiday season should be: buttery, tender, lightly sweet, and absolutely adorable. With their classic shortbread base and cheerful Christmas tree decoration, they’re perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday dessert tables, gift boxes, or cozy baking days at home.

The dough comes together with just a few pantry staples, and the decoration is simple enough for beginners while still looking beautifully festive. Whether you’re baking with kids or preparing elegant treats for guests, these cookies are guaranteed to bring smiles.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Classic shortbread flavor – rich, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth

  • Simple ingredients – no eggs, no complicated steps

  • Holds its shape perfectly – ideal for clean edges

  • Fun to decorate – great for kids and holiday parties

  • Perfect for gifting – sturdy, stackable, and festive

These cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Ingredients

Cookies

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar

  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Decoration

  • Green icing (piping consistency)

  • Red, white, and green sprinkles

  • Small star sprinkles (yellow or gold)

  • Chocolate sprinkles or thin chocolate pieces (for tree trunks)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowl

  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

  • Rolling pin

  • Sharp knife or cookie cutter

  • Parchment paper

  • Baking tray

  • Piping bag or zip-top bag

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Shortbread Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until creamy, smooth, and pale in color. This step is important—it creates that classic shortbread texture.

Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.

Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing on low speed or by hand until a soft dough forms. The dough should be smooth and not sticky.

Tip: If the dough feels too soft, chill it for 15 minutes before rolling.

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