Introduction

These Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday baking lineup. Soft, vibrant, and full of that classic red velvet flavor, these cookies are decorated to look like festive Christmas trees. A fun and delicious treat for kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon red food coloring
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Decoration:

• 1 cup green frosting (homemade or store-bought)
• Assorted holiday sprinkles
• Edible stars for topping
• Powdered sugar (optional, for a snowy effect)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until smooth and combined.
5. Combine and add buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Shape the cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Use a small spatula or your hands to shape the dough into Christmas tree triangles (a flat, triangular shape).
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Decorate: Once the cookies are cool, pipe green frosting onto the cookies to resemble a Christmas tree. Decorate with holiday sprinkles and top with an edible star.
9. Optional dusting: Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar over the cookies to give them a snowy look.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies at holiday parties, as gifts, or as a festive dessert. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies and decorate when ready to serve.

Variations

• Chocolate lovers: Add chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a richer flavor.
• Colorful twist: Use different colored frostings and sprinkles for a variety of festive looks.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Tips

• Make sure the butter is at room temperature for a smooth dough.
• Chill the dough for 20 minutes if it feels too soft to shape.
• Use a piping bag with a star tip for more detailed frosting decorations.

Small Story: Motivation Behind This Recipe

These Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies were inspired by the joy of holiday baking and the beautiful colors of Christmas. Combining the rich flavor of red velvet with festive decorations creates a treat that brings holiday cheer to every table.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies are a must-have for holiday celebrations. With their delicious red velvet flavor and festive decorations, they’re sure to impress family and friends. Try this recipe for a delightful addition to your holiday baking traditions!

FAQs

• Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes! Bake the cookies in advance, freeze them, and decorate just before serving.
• How do I make the frosting at home? Mix 1/2 cup butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and green food coloring until smooth.
• Can I use other shapes? Absolutely! Use cookie cutters for stars, stockings, or other holiday-themed shapes.