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Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies Recipe

4.7 from 109 reviews

These Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies are festive, buttery treats perfect for holiday celebrations. Featuring a light and fluffy texture with a delicate crunch on the edges, these cookies are enhanced with a touch of vanilla and topped with sparkling sugar for a delightful shimmer.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (at room temperature)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg (at room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

  • Sugar for sprinkling on top (sparkling sugar recommended)

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar until fully incorporated.
  5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
  6. Shape Dough: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Flatten each ball slightly or use cookie cutters to create tree shapes.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped cookies evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Generously sprinkle the tops with sparkling sugar for a festive shine.
  8. Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, indicating they are cooked through yet soft inside.
  9. Cooling: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Ensure butter and egg are at room temperature for the best consistency in the dough.
  • Do not over-mix once dry ingredients are added to avoid tough cookies.
  • Using sparkling sugar adds a beautiful crunch and festive appearance.
  • Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Keywords: Sugar cookies, holiday cookies, Christmas cookies, sparkling sugar cookies, vanilla sugar cookies