Speculaas Christmas Trees

It's best to briefly mix the spices beforehand so cinnamon & co. are evenly distributed in the dough.

Don't knead for too long so the dough stays tender and crumbly.

If you need it faster: 15 minutes in the freezer, but keep an eye on it so the dough doesn't freeze solid.

Prepare the baking sheets with parchment paper in advance, then cutting out shapes is quicker.

For even baking, roll the dough to an even thickness everywhere (about 3–4 mm).

Dip cookie cutters in flour between uses so the shapes release more cleanly.

They should remain fairly light; the edges may only take on a little color.

They are still soft and more fragile while warm – only decorate once cooled.

If the icing is too thick, add milk drop by drop; if it's too thin, stir in a little more powdered sugar.

Apply sprinkles over a plate to catch leftovers that you can reuse.

Store side by side (not stacked) while drying so the decorations don't get pressed.