Rosemary Shortbread Christmas Tree Cookies: A Festive Twist on a Classic Treat
The holidays are a time for indulgence, creativity, and delicious smells wafting from the kitchen. This year, elevate your festive baking with Rosemary Shortbread Christmas Tree Cookies—a perfect blend of buttery richness, subtle herbal aroma, and seasonal charm. These cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them ideal for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or decorating your own Christmas cookie platter.
Why Rosemary?
Rosemary adds a sophisticated twist to traditional shortbread. Its piney, slightly sweet flavor complements the buttery dough, evoking the scent of a fresh Christmas tree. Unlike overpowering spices, rosemary adds just the right herbal note, enhancing the cookie’s flavor while keeping it familiar and comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a batch of approximately 24 cookies, you’ll need:
-
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
-
1/2 cup granulated sugar
-
2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1 tsp finely chopped fresh rosemary
-
1/4 tsp salt
-
Optional: powdered sugar or glaze for decorating
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Prepare the dough:
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the chopped rosemary. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. -
Chill:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour. This makes it easier to roll and shape. -
Shape the cookies:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes. -
Bake:
Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. -
Cool and decorate:
Let cookies cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling with a light glaze. Add small sprinkles or edible decorations to mimic ornaments on your Christmas trees.
Tips for Success
-
Fresh rosemary matters: Fresh herbs deliver more aroma and flavor than dried.
-
Even thickness: Roll dough evenly for uniform baking and crisp edges.
-
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—or freeze for longer storage.
Why These Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays
Rosemary Shortbread Christmas Tree Cookies combine festive presentation with gourmet flavor. They’re perfect for:
-
Holiday cookie exchanges
-
Adding elegance to your dessert table
-
Gifting to friends, family, or neighbors
With their delicate buttery texture, subtle herbal note, and charming tree shape, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
The Bottom Line
This holiday season, trade ordinary for extraordinary. Rosemary Shortbread Christmas Tree Cookies bring together the warmth of homemade shortbread, the festive charm of Christmas shapes, and the fresh, aromatic touch of rosemary. They’re more than just cookies—they’re a celebration on a plate.
0 comments:
Post a Comment