Last Updated on October 16, 2025 by recipeinspire

Christmas Tree Shortbread Sticks: 7 Tips for Perfect Holiday Treats

Are you craving festive sweets? Did you know that traditional shortbread cookies date back to 12th century Scotland? As the holiday season approaches, the nostalgia of Christmas baking fills the air. This year, why not raise the festive spirit with delightful Christmas tree shortbread sticks? Perfectly shaped like little holiday trees, they capture the essence of the season and are a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. In this post, we’ll share seven essential tips to help you master the art of making these delicious treats with ease.

Ingredients List

Let’s gather the ingredients to whip up this delightful treat! You’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Keeps the base sturdy and crumbly.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – For a rich, buttery flavor.
• ¾ cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness without a grainy texture.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, comforting aroma.
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional) – A nutty twist that enhances flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
• Colored sprinkles or edible glitter – For that festive touch!

Substitutions

• For a dairy-free version, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter.
• You can use almond flour for a gluten-free option, adjusting the quantity.

Timing

Making these exquisite Christmas tree shortbread sticks doesn’t take long—only about 90 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average cookie recipe. Here’s a breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes (essential for the perfect texture)
• Baking Time: 15 minutes
• Cooling Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This typically takes about 3-4 minutes.

Tip: Don’t rush this step; fluffy butter makes for a lighter cookie!

Step 2: Add the Flour and Flavors

Gradually add the flour, salt, and extracts into the creamed mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined.

Tip: Use a spatula to scrape down the sides to ensure everything is blended well.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two balls and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour—this step significantly helps in shaping the sticks.

Step 4: Roll and Shape

Once chilled, roll out one dough ball on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Tip: Keep your cookie cutter flour-dusted to prevent sticking!

Step 5: Bake

Bake the shortbread for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 6: Cool and Decorate

Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Once cooled completely, decorate with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter for that festive touch.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Once decorated, serve them on a platter, and watch them disappear at your holiday gathering!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of these delightful treats contains approximately:

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 1g

Data Insight

A single shortbread stick is much lower in calories compared to many store-bought festive sweets, allowing you to indulge without the guilt!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to make these Christmas tree shortbread sticks a bit healthier? Consider these alternatives:

• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for added protein.
• Replace powdered sugar with a natural sweetener like monk fruit sweetener to reduce sugar content.
• Swap regular butter for unsweetened applesauce in a 1:1 ratio for a lower-fat option.

Serving Suggestions

These charming shortbread sticks make for delightful holiday gifts! Present them in a festive tin adorned with a ribbon. You can also serve them on a dessert platter with other holiday treats such as peppermint bark or gingerbread cookies.

Personalization Tip: Pair them with a warm cup of holiday spiced tea or cocoa for a cozy treat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to baking Christmas tree shortbread sticks, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Too Warm Dough: If the dough is too warm, it won’t hold its shape and will spread in the oven.
• Skipping the Chill: Always chill the dough. It’s essential for maintaining the right texture.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should only be lightly golden at the edges.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your shortbread sticks fresh:

• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper.

Print

Conclusion

In summary, with a few crucial tips, you can create the most delightful Christmas tree shortbread sticks that will impress your friends, family, and even Santa! Remember to experiment with flavors and decorations to make them your own. Try this recipe today and let us know how your holiday baking goes!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.

Are shortbread sticks gluten-free?

You can easily make these gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Can I decorate them in advance?

Yes, you can decorate the shortbread sticks a day before and store them in an airtight container.

What can I use instead of butter?

For a vegan option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute works similarly, yielding excellent results.

Get ready to spread some holiday cheer with your homemade treats!