Christmas tree made of shortbread cookies

Christmas tree made of shortbread cookies

Biscuit “Tree” Recipe (Layered Butter Biscuits)

These delicate, buttery biscuits are perfect for stacking into a simple “tree” shape using different cutter sizes. The dough is rich thanks to the egg yolks and butter, which gives you a tender crumb and a clean snap once baked and fully cooled. They’re ideal as a showpiece for a dessert table, an edible gift, or a fun bake to assemble with family.

Equipment you’ll need

  • Mixing bowl or stand mixer with paddle attachment

  • Rolling pin (or pasta machine for super-even thickness)

  • Nested round cookie cutters (small to large)

  • Baking tray + parchment/baking paper

  • Cooling rack (recommended)

Ingredients

  • 250 g flour
  • 200 g softened butter
  • 100 g powdered sugar
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 2 egg yolks

Preparing

  1. In a bowl or a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, rub the flour with the softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt until crumbly.
  2. Add the egg yolks. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
  3. Slightly flatten the dough, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 160°C (fan-forced).
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Roll out the dough using a rolling pin or a pasta machine to a thickness of 4 mm.
  7. Cut circles of various sizes using nested cookie cutters.
  8. Carefully place them on the baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  10. Let cool completely before handling.
 

Chef tip's

For extra indulgence and a taller tree, place a small rosette of whipped cream or whipped ganache between each layer.

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