Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies: A Festive Holiday Delight

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.

Tips for Success

1. Chill the Dough: Prevent spreading during baking by keeping the dough cold.
2. Test Icing Consistency: Ensure the frosting is firm enough to hold its shape when piped.
3. 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 beverages 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.

Celebrate the holidays with these Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies decorated to perfection. They’re a joy to make, a delight to eat, and guaranteed to make your season brighter!

Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies

Alana

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Chill time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 42 minutes mins

Servings 20

Ingredients

  

For the Cookies:

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

For the Royal Icing:

• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp meringue powder
• 4-5 tbsp water adjust as needed
• Gel food coloring white, green, and red

For Decoration:

• Edible holly leaves and berries
• Edible glitter or shimmer dust

Instructions

 

1️⃣ Prepare the Cookie Dough:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until well combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, until a soft dough forms.

2️⃣ Chill and Cut Out Cookies:

• Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
• 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.

3️⃣ Bake the Cookies:

• Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

4️⃣ Decorate with Royal Icing:

• In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water. Beat until the icing is smooth and holds stiff peaks. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
• Divide and color the icing as desired.
• Use a piping bag with a small tip to decorate the cookies with white icing as garlands and green icing for holly leaves. Add red icing dots for berries.

5️⃣ Add Finishing Touches:

• Sprinkle edible glitter or shimmer dust for a magical holiday sparkle. Let the icing set completely before serving.

Notes

These Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cookies are a festive delight, perfect for holiday parties or as edible gifts! Get creative with your decorations and spread some holiday cheer.