Christmas Cookies: Gingerbread Star Tree Recipe 2026

Christmas cookies are delicious little stars made with ginger and cinnamon, stacked on top of each other to create a tiny tree… the final touch is powdered sugar and colorful sprinkles—our little trees are ready to be served at the table.

Ingredients for Christmas Cookies

• 500 g flour
• 2 eggs + 1 egg white
• 1 level teaspoon baking soda
• 1 heaped teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• Scant ½ deciliter milk
• 150 g butter
• 130 g sugar
• 260 g powdered sugar
• ½ lemon
• Silver sugar sprinkles for decoration
• A pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Preparation

After preparing the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for one hour. Roll out the dough to a thickness of 2-3 mm and, using star-shaped cookie cutters in 4 different sizes (scaled), cut out many cookies. Knead the scraps again and repeat the process. Then bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes.

Prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with the egg white and lemon juice, and beat with electric beaters for 3-4 minutes. Remove the Christmas cookies from the oven and let them cool. Place a drop of glaze in the center of the largest cookies and cover them with another of the same size. Repeat until all cookies are used, then decorate as desired.

Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookies

• For best results, ensure your kitchen tools are clean and sharp—a good rolling pin and star cutters make all the difference.
• Use a sturdy kitchen island or cart as your prep station to keep everything organized.
• If you're baking large batches, consider storing cookies in airtight containers to keep them fresh.
• For a festive display, arrange the finished cookie trees on a beautiful dining table as a centerpiece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just note that the texture may be slightly different. For best results, use a blend that includes xanthan gum.

How long do these Christmas cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid climate, you can add a silica gel packet to the container to help maintain crispness.

Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?

Absolutely! The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months—wrap it tightly in plastic and then foil. Baked cookies (without glaze) can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.

What other decorations can I use?

Besides silver sprinkles, try using colored sanding sugar, edible glitter, or mini chocolate chips. For a more elegant look, drizzle with white chocolate. You can also find decorative wall art to complement your holiday table setting.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading while baking?

Chill the shaped cookies on a baking sheet in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps solidify the butter and prevents spreading. Also, be sure to use a quality baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

More Festive Ideas

Once you've mastered these cookie trees, you can expand your holiday baking with other shapes like snowflakes, gingerbread men, or Christmas wreaths. Pair your treats with a warm cup of cocoa or mulled wine, and enjoy the cozy season. For outdoor entertaining, consider adding a patio heater to keep guests warm while they enjoy your homemade goodies.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These cookies make wonderful gifts. Package them in festive tins or clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon. For a party, present them on a festive rug or tablecloth to create an inviting dessert station. If you're hosting a large gathering, arrange comfortable seating nearby so guests can relax and enjoy.

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