Coconut Christmas Trees: A Festive Treat for the Holidays

Every year, as the first snowflakes begin to fall, I find myself drawn back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, filled with the scent of warm sugar and vanilla. Among the many holiday traditions she held dear, one always stood out: her adorable coconut Christmas trees. These weren’t just cookies; they were edible ornaments, crafted with love and decorated with the kind of childlike wonder that only the holiday season can inspire. Now, I carry on that tradition, sharing these delightful treats with my own family and friends, hoping to spread a little of that same Christmas magic.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour chill time
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Servings: 24
• Yield: 24 trees
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 3 cups flaked coconut (do not use frozen, it is too moist)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup butter or 1/4 cup margarine, softened to room temperature
• 1/4 cup light cream
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (for even tastier trees use lemon or orange extract)
• 4 ounces chocolate-flavored candy coating
• Green sugar (optional if you didn’t tint the coconut)
• Miniature M&M baking bits or red cinnamon candies

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Cookie sheet
• Wax paper
• Microwave-safe bowl

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked coconut, powdered sugar, softened butter (or margarine), light cream, and almond extract. Mix thoroughly until a well-combined dough forms.

2. If you desire colored coconut trees, add a few drops of food coloring to the mixture at this stage and blend until the color is uniformly distributed. Remember, a little goes a long way!

3. Drop the coconut mixture by tablespoonfuls onto a cookie sheet lined with wax paper. Space them adequately to prevent sticking.

4. Now, it’s time to chill! Place the cookie sheet with the coconut mounds into the refrigerator for about an hour. This firming up process will make them much easier to shape into trees.

5. Once chilled, remove the cookie sheet from the refrigerator. Using your fingers, gently shape each coconut mound into a tree shape, creating a distinct trunk at the bottom. Don’t worry about perfection; a little rustic charm adds to the character!

6. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate-flavored candy coating according to the package directions. Usually, this involves microwaving in short bursts (30 seconds), stirring in between, to prevent burning.

7. Dip the trunks of each tree into the melted chocolate, ensuring a good coating. Then, place the dipped trees back onto the wax paper-lined cookie sheet.

8. While the chocolate is still wet, decorate the trees. Sprinkle with green sugar (if you opted for plain coconut trees) and press miniature M&M baking bits or red cinnamon candies onto the trees to resemble ornaments. Get creative with your designs!

9. Allow the chocolate to harden completely. This can be sped up by placing the cookie sheet back in the refrigerator for a short time.

10. Keep the finished Coconut Christmas Trees chilled until ready to serve or take to a party. This helps them maintain their shape and freshness.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Extract Selection: While almond extract provides a classic flavor, consider using lemon or orange extract for a bright, citrusy twist.

• Coconut Freshness: Be sure to use fresh, moist (but not frozen) flaked coconut. Dry coconut will result in a crumbly mixture that doesn’t hold its shape well.

• Chocolate Consistency: If the chocolate coating is too thick, add a tiny bit of vegetable shortening or coconut oil to thin it out for easier dipping. Be sure to stir well to incorporate.

• Color Enhancement: To achieve more vibrant colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring. Gel colors are more concentrated and won’t affect the consistency of the mixture.

• Preventing Sticking: Make sure the wax paper is securely adhered to the cookie sheet to prevent the trees from sticking. A light spritz of cooking spray can help.

• Tree Support: For taller trees, consider inserting a small pretzel stick into the trunk for extra support before dipping. This is especially helpful if you’re transporting them.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these adorable Coconut Christmas Trees on a festive platter, alongside other holiday treats. They make a delightful addition to any Christmas cookie exchange or holiday party. To store, keep the trees in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week. These are best served chilled or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	105.1 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	48 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	5.4 g	8%
Saturated Fat	4.2 g	20%
Cholesterol	6.7 mg	2%
Sodium	38.4 mg	1%
Total Carbohydrate	14.5 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	0.4 g	1%
Sugars	13.8 g	55%
Protein	0.4 g	0%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine alternative and use coconut cream instead of light cream.
• Vegan: Use a vegan margarine and coconut cream. Ensure the chocolate candy coating is also vegan-friendly.
• Nut-Free: Omit the almond extract or substitute it with vanilla extract.
• Chocolate Variety: Experiment with different types of chocolate candy coating, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, for a unique flavor profile.
• Coconut Preference: For a more pronounced coconut flavor, toast the flaked coconut lightly before adding it to the mixture. Spread the coconut on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden, watching closely to prevent burning.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make these trees ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These Coconut Christmas Trees can be made several days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Q: What can I use instead of M&Ms for decorating?
A: Get creative! You can use sprinkles, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or any other small candies that you enjoy.

Q: My coconut mixture is too dry and crumbly. What can I do?
A: Add a little more light cream, a teaspoon at a time, until the mixture comes together.

Q: Can I freeze these trees?
A: While you can freeze them, the texture of the coconut may change slightly. If you do freeze them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe bag.

Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from melting when I’m decorating?
A: Work in a cool environment and chill the trees briefly in the refrigerator before decorating to help the chocolate set faster.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll find as much joy in making these Coconut Christmas Trees as I do. They’re not just a recipe; they’re a tradition, a memory, and a symbol of the warmth and love that the holiday season represents. Gather your family, put on some festive music, and create these edible masterpieces together. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the decorations and, most importantly, have fun! I’d love to hear your feedback and see your creations, so please share your thoughts and photos with me. Happy baking, and Merry Christmas!