Christmas tree shortbread sticks

Imagine the inviting aroma of freshly baked Christmas tree shortbread sticks wafting through your home, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia. These delightful treats, crisp and buttery, evoke fond memories of family gatherings and cozy winter nights. With just the right balance of sweetness and a hint of holiday spice, they are the perfect companion to a mug of hot cocoa or a warm cup of tea. Let’s dive into creating this comforting delight that will fill your kitchen and your hearts with joy!

Print

Let’s Make It Together

Creating Christmas tree shortbread sticks is a simple and rewarding experience, one that invites you to gather around the kitchen, laughing and sharing stories as the dough comes together. With just a few basic ingredients and some love, you’ll have a batch ready to brighten your holiday season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Green and red sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
• 1 tablespoon icing sugar (for dusting, optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Begin by beating the softened butter and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 minutes. The mixture should look pale and inviting, just like a cloud!
2. Gently mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring that it seamlessly blends with the creamy butter. This step adds a lovely richness that makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix – we want our shortbread sticks to be tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
4. Gather the dough into a rectangle shape, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle and bake perfectly.
5. Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ready for those beautiful shortbread sticks.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips resembling Christmas trees. For a fun touch, you might even use a tree-shaped cookie cutter! Place these pieces onto your prepared baking sheet with a little space between them.
7. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle the colorful decorations on top of each tree before baking.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the edges. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with the comforting scent of butter and vanilla, promising joy.
9. Allow the shortbread sticks to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you wish, dust them lightly with icing sugar once they are completely cooled.

Nutritional Snapshot

• Serving Size: 1 shortbread stick
• Calories: 150
• Protein: 1g
• Carbs: 17g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 0g

This delightful recipe is not only a festive treat, but it also packs a comforting punch. With just the right amount of sweetness, it won’t weigh you down, making it a perfect nibble at holiday gatherings.

Moments Made for This Dish

These Christmas tree shortbread sticks are perfect for holiday parties, cozy family dinners, or even a winter brunch. Imagine pairing them with a warm cup of eggnog or some creamy hot chocolate, decorated with a sprinkle of marshmallows on top. They also make for a lovely gift when wrapped in a festive box, brightening someone else’s holiday season!

Smart Storage Tricks

To keep your shortbread sticks fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Just place the cooled sticks in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll be delightful treats ready to enjoy for up to three months. When you’re ready for a taste, let them thaw at room temperature, and they will be as good as new!

Betty’s Secrets

• For a richer flavor, use high-quality butter – it truly makes a difference!
• Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for achieving that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• If you want to play with flavors, consider adding a bit of grated lemon or orange zest to brighten things up.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for cozy, warm notes that fit the season perfectly.

Creative Twists

• For a festive variation, try adding crushed peppermint candies to the top before baking for a delightful holiday crunch.
• In the summer, swap in fresh herbs such as rosemary or lavender for a refreshing twist.
• Mix in chocolate chips or dried cranberries into the dough for a sweet surprise in every bite.

Your Questions Answered

What can I serve with Christmas tree shortbread sticks? They pair beautifully with hot drinks like cocoa or cider, or you can enjoy them alongside fresh fruits and cheeses for a more savory touch.

Can I make these shortbread sticks gluten-free? Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

How do I know when my shortbread sticks are done baking? Look for a light golden color around the edges – they should still be soft in the center.

Can I decorate the shortbread before baking? Yes! Adding sprinkles or icing before baking makes them even more festive and fun.