Name: Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 2 h 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: 60
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 3 tbsp unsalted butter; ¾ cup brown sugar; ½ cup unsweetened applesauce; 1 large egg; ⅓ cup dark molasses; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 2 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp allspice; ¼ tsp ground cloves; For the Icing:; 1½ tbsp egg whites; ¼ tsp Fresh Lemon Juice; 1 cup powdered sugar; 6 drops green food coloring; colored sprinkles

Get into the festive spirit with these delightful gingerbread Christmas tree cookies. Perfect for decorating and sharing, these cookies are a fun activity for the whole family while adding a touch of holiday magic to your dessert table.

Photos of Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies Recipe

Some of the ingredients you might need to grab from the supermarket include dark molasses, which gives the cookies their rich flavor, and unsweetened applesauce, used as a substitute for some of the fat. Don't forget ground ginger and allspice for that warm, spiced taste.

Ingredients For Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

unsalted butter: Provides richness and a tender texture to the cookies.

brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight molasses flavor.

unsweetened applesauce: Used to reduce fat content while maintaining moisture.

large egg: Helps to bind the ingredients together.

dark molasses: Adds depth of flavor and color to the cookies.

all-purpose flour: The main structure for the cookies.

baking soda: Leavening agent to make the cookies rise slightly.

ground ginger: Provides the signature gingerbread taste.

ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.

allspice: Enhances the flavor with a complex blend of spices.

ground cloves: Adds a strong, distinctive spiced flavor.

egg whites: Used in the icing for structure.

fresh lemon juice: Adds a bit of acidity to balance the sweetness.

powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the icing.

green food coloring: Gives the icing a festive green hue.

colored sprinkles: For decorative purposes.

One reader, Boyd Coffman says:

These gingerbread Christmas tree cookies are fantastic! The spices blend perfectly, and the applesauce adds a lovely moist texture. Decorating them was so much fun, and they turned out beautifully. Perfect for holiday gatherings!

Boyd Coffman

Techniques Required for Making Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

How to beat ingredients: Use an electric mixer or a whisk to combine ingredients until smooth and well-blended. How to combine dry ingredients: Mix flour, baking soda, and spices in a separate bowl to ensure even distribution before adding to the wet mixture. How to form dough into a ball: Use your hands to gather the dough into a cohesive ball, even if it feels sticky. How to chill dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to firm up. How to roll out dough: Dust your working surface and rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking, then roll the dough to the desired thickness. How to cut dough into shapes: Use a knife to trim the dough into strips and then into triangles for tree shapes. How to bake cookies: Place the cut dough on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven until done. How to make icing: Mix egg whites, lemon juice, and powdered sugar until smooth, then add food coloring. How to pipe icing: Transfer the icing to a piping bag and decorate the cooled cookies.

How To Make Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

Perfect for the holiday season, these gingerbread Christmas tree cookies made with apple sauce are here to make sure you feel the love and bliss!

Preparation: 2 hours 20 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 2 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3tbspunsalted butter,softened
¾cupbrown sugar,firmly packed
½cupunsweetened applesauce
1large egg
⅓cupdark molasses
3cupsall-purpose flour,plus more for dusting
1tspbaking soda
2tspground ginger
1tspground cinnamon
½tspallspice
¼tspground cloves

For the Icing:

1½tbspegg whites,room temperature
¼tspfresh lemon juice
1cuppowdered sugar
6dropsgreen food coloring
Colored sprinkles

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, and applesauce until smooth. Add the egg and molasses, mix well.
In another large bowl, combine flour, baking soda and spices. Add to sugar and molasses mixture, stirring well with the mixer. Use your hands to form a large ball, the dough will be a little sticky.
Wash and dry your hands. Place flour on your hands so the dough doesn’t stick to you, then divide the dough into two flat balls; cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
After the dough has chilled, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Generously dust the surface of your working area with flour before rolling out the dough. Work with one ball of dough at a time, keep the other refrigerated while you do so.
Depending on how thin you roll the dough out and the size of your trees, this recipe makes at least 60 tree cookies.
Roll the dough out to ⅛-inch thickness, sprinkle a little flour on top of the dough if it’s a little sticky. Trim the uneven edges off to square the dough, then using a knife cut the dough into 3½-inch strips. Then cut the strips into triangles.
Place the cookies 1 or 2 inches apart on a silpat-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. Meanwhile, make the icing.
To decorate, pipe the cookies with the frosting one at a time, quickly adding the sprinkles before it hardens.

Icing:

Mix the egg whites with lemon juice. Combine with powdered sugar, mixing well, then add a few drops of green food coloring until the desired color.
If the icing is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar, if it’s too thick add a drop of lemon juice or water. Transfer to a piping bag to decorate cookies when cookies are cooled.

Nutrition

Calories: 51.31kcal
Fat: 0.73g
Saturated Fat: 0.40g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.19g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.07g
Carbohydrates: 10.47g
Fiber: 0.23g
Sugar: 5.52g
Protein: 0.81g
Cholesterol: 4.63mg
Sodium: 24.33mg
Calcium: 7.71mg
Potassium: 41.25mg
Iron: 0.43mg
Vitamin A: 6.22µg
Vitamin C: 0.45mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

When rolling out the dough, ensure it is evenly flattened to the specified ⅛-inch thickness to guarantee uniform baking. If the dough becomes too sticky, lightly dust both the rolling pin and the surface with flour. This will help maintain the dough's consistency and prevent it from sticking, making it easier to cut precise shapes for your gingerbread christmas tree cookies.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix dry ingredients the night before to save time on baking day.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can speed up the process of combining butter, sugar, and applesauce.

Chill dough efficiently: Flatten the dough into thinner disks before chilling; it will cool faster and be easier to roll out.

Pre-cut parchment paper: Line baking sheets with pre-cut parchment paper to quickly transfer cookies for baking.

Batch bake: Bake multiple trays of cookies at once if your oven allows, to cut down on total baking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, making it a good alternative for baking.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used in equal amounts.
unsweetened applesauce - Substitute with mashed bananas: Mashed bananas offer a similar moisture content and natural sweetness.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to replace one egg, providing a similar binding effect.
dark molasses - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and viscosity, though the flavor will be slightly different.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used in equal amounts and adds a slightly nutty flavor and more nutrients.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder to replace baking soda, though it may slightly alter the texture.
ground ginger - Substitute with fresh ginger: Use 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger for every teaspoon of ground ginger for a more intense flavor.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon along with other spices, providing a similar flavor profile.
allspice - Substitute with nutmeg and cinnamon: Use a mix of equal parts nutmeg and cinnamon to replicate the flavor of allspice.
ground cloves - Substitute with ground nutmeg: Ground nutmeg offers a similar warm, spicy flavor.
egg whites - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) can be whipped to replace egg whites in icing.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar acidity and tanginess.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar blended with cornstarch: Blend granulated sugar with a small amount of cornstarch to create a similar texture.
green food coloring - Substitute with matcha powder: Matcha powder provides a natural green color and a subtle flavor.
colored sprinkles - Substitute with crushed nuts: Crushed nuts add a decorative touch and a bit of crunch.

Presentation Ideas for Festive Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

Use a pristine white plate: The contrast between the gingerbread cookies and the white plate will make the colors pop and look more festive.
Arrange cookies in a tree shape: Stack the gingerbread tree cookies in a pyramid-like structure to mimic a Christmas tree, creating a visually appealing centerpiece.
Add edible glitter: Lightly dust the cookies with edible glitter to give them a magical, snowy effect that enhances their festive appearance.
Use a variety of sprinkles: Decorate each cookie with different colored sprinkles to create a vibrant and playful look, reminiscent of Christmas tree ornaments.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Place small sprigs of rosemary around the base of the cookie tree to resemble pine needles, adding a touch of greenery and a subtle aroma.
Drizzle with white icing: Pipe a delicate drizzle of white icing over the cookies to mimic snow, adding an elegant touch to the presentation.
Serve with a side of hot cocoa: Pair the gingerbread cookies with a small cup of rich, creamy hot cocoa to enhance the holiday experience and provide a comforting beverage.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly sift powdered sugar over the entire plate to give the appearance of freshly fallen snow, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Use festive garnishes: Add a few cranberries and mint leaves around the plate for a pop of color and a touch of holiday cheer.
Finish with a gold leaf accent: Place a small piece of edible gold leaf on the top cookie to signify the star on the Christmas tree, adding a luxurious and sophisticated touch.

Essential Tools for Making Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the butter, sugar, and applesauce until smooth, and later to mix the flour and spices with the sugar and molasses mixture.
Mixer: This will help you beat the butter, sugar, and applesauce until smooth, and mix in the egg and molasses.
Plastic wrap: Cover the dough balls with this before chilling them in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator: Chill the dough for at least 2 hours to make it easier to work with.
Rolling pin: Roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Knife: Trim the uneven edges of the dough and cut it into strips and triangles.
Silpat-lined baking sheet: Place the cookies on this to bake them evenly without sticking.
Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees F and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes.
Piping bag: Use this to decorate the cookies with the icing.
Measuring cups: Measure out the ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Measure out smaller quantities of ingredients like baking soda and spices.
Spatula: Scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Sifter: Sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the icing.
Whisk: Mix the egg whites and lemon juice for the icing.
Cooling rack: Place the baked cookies on this to cool before decorating.

How To Store and Freeze Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

Allow the gingerbread christmas tree cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.
If you plan to store the cookies for more than a few days, place a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of cookies to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the cookies in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They should keep well for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
For longer storage, you can freeze the gingerbread cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
When freezing, make sure to label the container or bag with the date so you can keep track of how long they've been stored.
Frozen gingerbread cookies can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
If you've already decorated the cookies with icing and sprinkles, it's best to store them in a single layer to prevent the decorations from getting damaged. If you need to stack them, place a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer.
Avoid storing the cookies in the refrigerator, as the humidity can cause them to become soft and lose their crisp texture.

Random Fact About Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

A fun fact about this gingerbread christmas tree cookies recipe is that using unsweetened applesauce instead of more traditional fats like butter or oil helps to reduce the overall fat content while adding a subtle fruity flavor.

Is Making Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

This gingerbread christmas tree cookies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and spices are pantry staples, while items like unsweetened applesauce and dark molasses are affordable and can be used in multiple recipes. The icing ingredients are minimal and inexpensive. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $10-$12.

Are Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The gingerbread Christmas tree cookie recipe, while festive and delicious, is not particularly healthy. The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, butter, and molasses, which are high in calories and saturated fats. The use of all-purpose flour also means that the cookies are made with refined carbohydrates, which have a high glycemic index and can cause blood sugar spikes. Additionally, the icing contains powdered sugar and food coloring, which offer no nutritional value and may contain artificial ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use unsweetened applesauce instead of butter to lower the saturated fat content
Opt for a healthier icing alternative, such as a Greek yogurt-based glaze or a drizzle of dark chocolate
Add some finely chopped nuts or seeds to the dough for an extra boost of healthy fats and protein

By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutritious version of the gingerbread Christmas tree cookies that still captures the holiday spirit. Remember, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying treats like these, so savor each bite and balance your indulgences with a healthy lifestyle.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Holiday Cookie Recipe

This gingerbread Christmas tree cookie recipe is a delightful blend of traditional flavors with a modern twist, thanks to the inclusion of applesauce. The spices are well-balanced, ensuring a warm, festive aroma. The dough's stickiness might be a bit challenging, but chilling it helps manage that. The icing, with its touch of lemon, adds a refreshing zing that complements the rich molasses and spices. The green food coloring and sprinkles make for a visually appealing presentation. Overall, it's a charming and flavorful recipe perfect for holiday celebrations.

Enhance Your Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine the warmth of roasted butternut squash soup enveloping your senses, its creamy texture and subtle sweetness perfectly complementing the spicy notes of your gingerbread christmas tree cookies. The earthy flavors of the squash and the aromatic spices create a harmonious balance, making each bite a delightful experience.

Cranberry Orange Salad: Picture a vibrant cranberry orange salad on your table, its tart and tangy flavors providing a refreshing contrast to the rich, spiced gingerbread cookies. The burst of citrus from the oranges and the sweet-tartness of the cranberries will cleanse your palate and enhance the festive spirit of your dessert.

Maple Glazed Carrots: Envision maple glazed carrots glistening on your plate, their natural sweetness amplified by a luscious maple syrup glaze. These tender, caramelized carrots offer a delightful counterpoint to the spiced gingerbread cookies, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds.

Spiced Apple Cider: Think of a steaming mug of spiced apple cider in your hands, its fragrant aroma wafting through the air. The warm, comforting blend of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg will perfectly echo the spices in your gingerbread cookies, making each sip a cozy, festive delight.

Brie and Fig Crostini: Visualize a platter of brie and fig crostini, the creamy brie melting into the crisp bread, topped with a dollop of sweet fig jam. This elegant appetizer offers a sophisticated contrast to the rustic charm of your gingerbread cookies, creating a memorable and indulgent holiday spread.

Alternative Holiday Cookie Recipes Similar to Gingerbread Christmas Trees

Spiced Sugar Cookies: Spiced Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, infused with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Perfect for the holiday season, these cookies are both aromatic and flavorful, making them a festive treat for any gathering.

Peppermint Bark: Peppermint Bark is a holiday favorite that combines layers of rich dark chocolate and creamy white chocolate, topped with crushed peppermint candies. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies: Cinnamon Roll Cookies bring the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls into a bite-sized treat. These cookies feature a buttery dough swirled with a cinnamon-sugar filling, topped with a sweet vanilla glaze.

Eggnog Snickerdoodles: Eggnog Snickerdoodles are a festive twist on the classic snickerdoodle cookie. Infused with eggnog and a hint of nutmeg, these cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for holiday celebrations.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a rich and fudgy treat with a crackled powdered sugar exterior. These cookies are perfect for chocolate lovers and add a touch of elegance to any holiday cookie platter.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your holiday gathering with these delightful Stuffed Mushrooms. Imagine earthy mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The creamy filling is perfectly balanced with a hint of Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and satisfying bite. These little morsels are baked until golden and bubbly, making them an irresistible start to any festive meal. Serve them warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Bruschetta: Kick off your holiday feast with a vibrant and flavorful Bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Top each slice with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella pearls. A splash of balsamic glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish that complements the freshness of the tomatoes and basil. This classic Italian appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect addition to your holiday spread.

Main Courses:

Stuffed Bell Peppers: For a vibrant and hearty meal, consider stuffed bell peppers. These colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, seasoned with garlic, onions, and a blend of Italian herbs. Topped with melted cheese, they offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Serve with a side of mixed greens for a complete and nutritious dinner.

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in the creamy goodness of chicken alfredo. This classic Italian dish features tender chicken breast slices sautéed to perfection, then tossed in a rich and velvety alfredo sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Serve over a bed of fettuccine pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Pair with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Why trust this Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies Recipe:

This gingerbread christmas tree cookies recipe is a delightful blend of spices and molasses, creating a rich and festive flavor perfect for the holidays. The use of unsweetened applesauce adds a unique twist, making the cookies moist and slightly healthier. The icing recipe is simple yet effective, ensuring your cookies look as good as they taste. With clear instructions and common ingredients, this recipe is both accessible and reliable, making it a trusted choice for your holiday baking.

Share your thoughts and experiences with making these delightful Gingerbread Christmas Tree Cookies in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Join the discussion and let us know how your festive treats turned out!

FAQ:

How long do the cookies need to chill in the refrigerator?

The dough needs to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to roll out.

Can I use a different type of sugar instead of brown sugar?

Brown sugar adds a nice depth of flavor and moisture to the cookies, but if you don't have it, you can use white sugar. Just keep in mind the flavor and texture might be slightly different.

What if I don't have a piping bag for the icing?

No worries! You can use a plastic sandwich bag and snip off a tiny corner to pipe the icing. It works just as well in a pinch.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be slightly firm to the touch and just starting to brown around the edges. This usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes in the oven.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and freeze it?

Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. When you're ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.