Name: Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter 1 cup granulated sugar 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 batch royal icing Festive sprinkles (gold, green, and white)

These Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies are a magical treat that brings holiday cheer to any cookie platter. With their crisp edges, soft buttery centers, and festive sparkle, they taste as delightful as they look. The sugar cookie base is classic and reliable, offering a sturdy structure for decorating while still melting in your mouth.

Topped with royal icing and shimmering sprinkles in gold and green, these cookies are the edible ornaments you didn’t know your dessert table needed. Whether you’re planning a cookie exchange or baking with kids, these sweet trees are a joyful way to celebrate the season.

For this recipe, a Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter sets the tone perfectly. If you’re aiming for that nostalgic, wintry aesthetic, go for a medium-sized cutter (around 3 to 4 inches). This size gives you enough space to decorate and ensures your cookies bake evenly without losing detail.

Ingredients for the Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies

Unsalted Butter – Gives the cookies a soft, rich texture while holding shape during baking.

Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the dough hold together without spreading too much.

Egg – Acts as a binder and adds structure to the cookie dough.

Vanilla Extract – For that warm, familiar holiday flavor.

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure and chew of the cookie.

Baking Powder – Offers just enough lift for a tender texture.

Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.

Royal Icing – The perfect canvas for decorating and dries with a glossy finish.

Festive Sprinkles – Gold and green nonpareils or sugar pearls bring the sparkle.

How To Make the Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step ensures your cookies are tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This adds moisture and flavor to the dough.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Decorate

Once the cookies are completely cooled, pipe royal icing over the surface of each tree and sprinkle with gold and green festive sprinkles while the icing is still wet. Allow to set completely.

How to Serve and Store Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies

These cookies make a stunning centerpiece on any holiday dessert table or cookie tray. Pair them with hot cocoa or a festive tea blend for a cozy treat. They’re also perfect for wrapping in clear bags with ribbon as edible gifts.

To store, keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you need to make them ahead, you can freeze the undecorated cookies for up to 2 months. Just thaw and decorate before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I chill the dough?

At least one hour is recommended, but chilling overnight is even better for firm dough and clean-cut shapes.

Can I use a different shape for the cookies?

Absolutely! While the tree shape is festive, stars, snowflakes, or even gingerbread men work wonderfully too.

Can I use store-bought icing?

Yes, you can use pre-made royal icing, but homemade gives you better consistency and flavor.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

The dough likely wasn’t chilled long enough or the butter was too soft. Be sure to chill well before baking.

How do I get that perfect icing finish?

Use a piping bag with a small round tip for outlining, then flood the center with thinner icing. Let dry completely before stacking or storing.

Are these cookies good for mailing?

Yes! Once the icing is set, these cookies ship well. Just cushion them with parchment or bubble wrap in a sturdy box.

If you love these Sparkling Sugar Tree Cookies, you’ll definitely enjoy these festive favorites from the Life with Jam kitchen:

Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for a soft, creamy bite with winter magic.
Caramel Cheesecake Cookies if you want sweet, gooey decadence.
Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for fruity and creamy goodness.
Blueberry Lemon Dutch Baby when you crave a brunchy baked treat.
Winter Brittle if you’re a fan of sweet and crunchy.

And if you’re looking for even more holiday baking inspiration, follow along on Pinterest @hallarecipes where I share new sweet ideas all season long.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a fun twist to the decorations? Maybe a dusting of edible glitter or peppermint crunch?

I love seeing how you make these cookies your own. Share your tips, swaps, or just how many batches you ended up baking!