When the holidays roll around, there’s nothing more magical than baking cookies that capture the spirit of the season. Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. With a buttery, caramel-infused dough shaped into pine trees and drizzled with golden caramel glaze, these cookies feel like a cozy hug on a frosty winter day.
The first time I made these, I was struck by how they sparkled like tiny treasures. Each bite melts in your mouth, with the warmth of caramel and the buttery richness of a classic shortbread. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or as a festive gift for someone special.
What I love most about these cookies is their versatility. Decorate them simply or go all out with sprinkles and edible glitter—it’s up to you! Let’s get baking and add a little golden magic to the season.
Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies combine a buttery shortbread base with the rich flavor of caramel. These festive cookies are shaped like pine trees and topped with a golden caramel glaze, making them the perfect holiday treat.
An Exciting Story
The first time I served Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies, they were the centerpiece of our holiday dessert table. My husband couldn’t get enough of their rich, buttery flavor, and the kids loved decorating them with sprinkles. Now, these cookies have become a tradition in our home—a must-have for celebrating the season.
Why These Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies?
- Rich and Buttery: A melt-in-your-mouth cookie with caramel warmth.
- Festive and Fun: Perfectly shaped pine trees add holiday cheer.
- Customizable: Decorate with sprinkles, glitter, or edible stars.
- Perfect for Gifting: Beautiful and delicious, they make the perfect homemade gift.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
What You Need for Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies
- For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- For the Caramel Glaze:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
- Optional Decorations:
- Sprinkles, edible glitter, or gold sugar
How to Make Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Chill the Dough:
- Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cut Out the Cookies:
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a pine tree cookie cutter to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Make the Caramel Glaze:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a golden amber color. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter and cream until smooth. Add a pinch of salt for balance. Let the glaze cool slightly.
- Decorate the Cookies:
- Drizzle the caramel glaze over the cooled cookies or use a pastry brush for a more even coating. Decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter while the glaze is still wet. Let the glaze set completely before serving.
Tips for Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Cold dough helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Work Quickly with Caramel: Caramel hardens as it cools, so decorate the cookies immediately after glazing.
Substitutions and Variations
- Spiced Version: Add ½ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a holiday twist.
- Nutty Touch: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the caramel glaze.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate alongside the caramel for extra decadence.
Make a Healthier Version
- Replace some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat.
- Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetener.
- Swap heavy cream in the glaze for coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Closing for Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies:
And there you have it—Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies, a festive, buttery treat that’s perfect for celebrating the season. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, adding them to a cookie platter, or keeping them all to yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to bring a little sparkle to your holidays. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to explore more of our holiday recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions for Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, the cookies can be baked and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Add the glaze just before serving for freshness. - How do I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. - Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and cutting. - How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too quickly?
Work in small batches and keep the caramel warm over low heat if needed. - What if I don’t have a pine tree cookie cutter?
Use any festive cookie cutter you have, or shape the dough into rounds for simple caramel cookies. - Can I use pre-made caramel sauce?
Yes, but homemade caramel glaze gives the best flavor and texture. - What’s the best way to drizzle caramel?
Use a spoon, piping bag, or even a small squeeze bottle for control. - Can I make them nut-free?
Absolutely! Skip any nut toppings and double-check that your other ingredients are nut-free. - How do I keep the cookies from spreading?
Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking. - Can I color the caramel glaze?
Yes, add gel food coloring to the caramel for a festive touch. - What pairs well with these cookies?
Serve with hot cocoa, spiced cider, or a warm cup of coffee for the ultimate holiday treat. - How do I keep them fresh for gifting?
Wrap individually in cellophane bags or store in decorative tins with parchment paper between layers.
Golden Caramel Pine Tree Cookies
4
30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- For the Cookies:
1 cup 1 unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
1 large 1 egg
1 tsp 1 vanilla extract
2 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
- For the Caramel Glaze:
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp 2 unsalted butter
¼ cup heavy cream
Pinch salt
- Optional Decorations:
Sprinkles, edible glitter, or gold sugar
Directions
- Make the Cookie Dough:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Chill the Dough:
- Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cut Out the Cookies:
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a pine tree cookie cutter to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Make the Caramel Glaze:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a golden amber color. Remove from heat and whisk in the butter and cream until smooth. Add a pinch of salt for balance. Let the glaze cool slightly.
- Decorate the Cookies:
- Drizzle the caramel glaze over the cooled cookies or use a pastry brush for a more even coating. Decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter while the glaze is still wet. Let the glaze set completely before serving.
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