Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

why make this recipe

Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies are not just cookies; they are a delightful part of holiday traditions. The warm spices and sweet molasses combine to create a flavor that makes everyone feel festive. These cookies are fun to decorate and share, making them perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or as gifts. Plus, baking these cookies fills your home with a wonderful aroma, bringing the true spirit of Christmas to life.

how to make Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (170 g or 1 1/2 sticks)
• 1 cup packed brown sugar (220 g)
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup molasses (230 g)
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 4 cups all-purpose flour (560 g)
• 10 ounces M&M candies (1 small bag)

Directions:

1. Cream together the butter and brown sugar in a stand mixer until the sugar clings to the bowl, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the egg and molasses, mix until incorporated, and scrape down the sides.
3. Add the spices, salt, and baking soda. Mix to incorporate.
4. Add the flour, mix until the dough forms and pulls away from the bowl, about 2 minutes.
5. Flatten the wrapped dough to 1-inch thick and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
6. Preheat oven to 325°F and prepare a baking sheet.
7. Roll out half the dough to 1/4-inch thick, cut cookies with a cookie cutter, placing them 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.
8. Press M&M candies into each cookie.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges look dry.
10. Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
11. Gather scraps, re-roll, and repeat with remaining dough.

how to serve Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

These cookies can be enjoyed plain or decorated with your favorite icing and sprinkles. They make a beautiful centerpiece on a holiday dessert table. Serve them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa to warm up your guests. You can also wrap them in festive bags to give as gifts.

how to store Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

To keep your Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are completely cooled and placed in a freezer-safe container or bag.

tips to make Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing.
• If the dough is too sticky while rolling out, dust it with a little extra flour.
• Use a variety of cookie cutters to create different shapes and sizes for fun decorations.
• If you want extra flavor, try adding a dash of vanilla extract to the dough.

variation

You can add chopped nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips to the dough for different flavors. If you want a spicier cookie, increase the amount of ground ginger or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.

FAQs

Can I use different spices?
Yes, you can experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to change the flavor profile of the cookies.

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Yes, if you are short on time, using store-bought gingerbread cookie dough is a great shortcut.

How do I decorate the cookies?
You can use royal icing, colored sugar, or melted chocolate to decorate your cookies after they cool. Be as creative as you like!