Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Christmas Lemon Tree Cookies

Christmas Lemon Tree Cookies


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Jam Scott
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Christmas Lemon Tree Cookies are a bright, citrusy twist on holiday baking. Soft, buttery sugar cookies are infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, cut into festive tree shapes, and topped with vibrant lemon icing. Perfect for edible gifting, cookie swaps, or adding cheer to your dessert table. This easy recipe makes a delightful treat for kids and adults alike—ideal for quick desserts, baking with kids, or festive snack ideas.


Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon lemon zest

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 cups powdered sugar

23 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Yellow gel food coloring

White royal icing (for piping)

Gold and white sprinkles (optional)


Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

3. Mix in the egg, vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice until fully combined.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

5. Divide dough into two, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough to ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.

7. Cut into Christmas tree shapes and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

8. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.

9. In a bowl, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. Tint with yellow food coloring.

10. Spread icing on each cookie. Once set, drizzle with white royal icing and decorate with sprinkles.

Notes

For a sweeter lemon flavor, try Meyer lemons—they’re less tart and more floral.

If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, pop it back in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.

To ensure smooth icing, sift powdered sugar before mixing and adjust juice for consistency.

  • Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg