1. Following the instructions on the cookie mix box, the mix I used called for 1 stick of butter, 1 tbsp of water and 1 egg. Combine the ingredients and roll out the dough. Using the cookie tree cutter, cut star shapes using all 15 pieces (refer to photos above).
2. Bake your cookies following the instructions. Allow to cool, and test your cookie tree (as pictured). I like doing this to make sure it can stay up and it’s as straight as possible before piping frosting on them.

To make the buttercream:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter on medium speed, until soft and creamy. Sift the powdered sugar, reduce speed to low and add 1 cup at a time.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of milk at a time until desired consistency (I used 2 tbsp). Beat on medium-high for about 2-3 minutes. Add vanilla vanilla extract and continue mixing.
3. Reserve 2 tbsp of buttercream if making a white star. If not, proceed with step 4.
4. Add in green food coloring drops until you have the desired color. If the buttercream is too runny, add 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. If it’s too thick add 1 more tablespoon of milk.

Assembly:

1. Pipe the buttercream onto each star, this works as the “glue” between each layer. I used a star tip #22.
2. Assemble your tree, starting from big to small stars. Don’t forget to add a white star at the top.
3. To finish it off I decorated it with edible pearls and gold star sprinkles.