“These cute cookies have been a Christmas tradition for years in my home!”
Christmas baking has a special kind of magic—warm kitchens, sparkling sprinkles, and recipes passed down through generations. These Peanut Butter Christmas Tree Cookies are exactly the kind of treat that people look forward to every December. They’re whimsical, festive, and incredibly delicious, combining soft peanut butter cookies with adorable decorated chocolate “trees” on top. Each cookie looks like a tiny holiday scene, complete with frosting garland and ornament sprinkles.
Whether you’re filling cookie trays, surprising your neighbors, or simply baking with your kids on a cozy winter afternoon, these cookies always bring joy. They’re easy enough for beginners, fun enough for little helpers, and beautiful enough for holiday parties. Let’s get into the full recipe so you can bring this long-loved tradition into your home, too.
INGREDIENTS
For the Peanut Butter Cookies
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1 cup creamy peanut butter
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Optional: 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for extra softness)
For Rolling the Cookies
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Red sanding sugar
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Green sanding sugar
(You can mix them for a blended red-green effect like in the photo.)
For the Chocolate Christmas Trees
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Hershey’s Kisses or Rolos
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Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (unwrapped)
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Melted chocolate (for stacking)
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Green icing or melted green candy melts
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White, red, or green nonpareil sprinkles
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Star sprinkles (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1 – Mix the Peanut Butter Cookie Dough
You’ll be amazed at how simple this dough is. In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and thick. Because these cookies don’t contain flour, they’re naturally soft, rich, and gluten-friendly.
Let the dough rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps it firm up slightly, making rolling easier.
