Spritz cookies have been a magical part of my holidays since I was a little girl. The delicate, buttery flavor and the way they melt in your mouth are simply irresistible. My grandmother would always let me help with the cookie press, and the satisfying click as each beautiful shape emerged from the press felt like pure enchantment. These easy spritz cookies are a classic for a reason, bringing a touch of elegance and delicious sweetness to any festive occasion. Get ready to create some holiday magic in your own kitchen – let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Spritz Cookie Recipe
You’re going to adore making these delightful cookies. They’re a fantastic addition to any holiday baking spread and are surprisingly simple to whip up.
- Incredibly buttery flavor that just melts in your mouth.
- Perfectly crisp edges with a tender center.
- A truly festive and beautiful cookie for any celebration.
- These butter spritz cookies are a crowd-pleaser, beloved by all ages.
- The process of using a cookie press is fun and engaging for everyone.
- They are surprisingly forgiving, making them ideal for beginners.
- These simple spritz cookies come together quickly, saving you time.
- Endless decorating possibilities with various candy melts and sprinkles!
Ingredients for Classic Spritz Cookies
Putting together this spritz cookie dough recipe is a breeze, and having the right ingredients is key to those perfect buttery cookies. I always make sure my butter is perfectly softened, not melted, for the best texture. Room temperature eggs also incorporate much more smoothly into the batter.
- 1 cup Salted Sweet Cream Butter, softened – This is the heart of the buttery flavor and tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar – Balances the butter and adds sweetness.
- 1 large Egg, room temperature – Binds everything together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon Clear Vanilla Flavoring – Enhances the sweet flavor without adding color.
- 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract – Adds a classic, subtle hint of almond that pairs beautifully with butter.
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour – The structure of our cookies; don’t overmix it!
- 1 cup Red Candy Melts, melted (optional) – For dipping and adding a festive touch.
- 1 cup Green Candy Melts, melted (optional) – More fun color for decorating!
- 1 cup Nonpareil Sprinkles (optional) – The perfect little pop of color and crunch.
How to Make Spritz Cookies
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to make spritz cookies! This process is really satisfying, and seeing the beautiful shapes emerge is half the fun.
- Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the perfect temperature when your cookies are ready to bake, helping them set properly.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream your softened butter for about 1 to 1.5 minutes until it’s wonderfully creamy and smooth. This step is crucial for a tender cookie texture.
- Step 3: Add the granulated sugar to the creamed butter and mix for another minute until everything is well combined and looks light and fluffy.
- Step 4: Now, incorporate the egg, clear vanilla flavoring, and almond extract. Blend these wet ingredients until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Step 5: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients. Mix on a low speed, only until the flour is just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
- Step 6: This is where the magic happens! Load your spritz cookie press recipes with the dough. Select your favorite disk shape and press the dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 7: Bake the cookies for approximately 8 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to just start setting and turn a very light golden color. They bake quickly, so keep an eye on them!
- Step 8: Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up enough to be moved without losing their shape.
- Step 9: While the cookies cool, melt your red and green candy melts in separate heat-safe bowls. Stir them every minute until they are completely melted and smooth.
- Step 10: Dip each cooled cookie halfway into the melted candy.
- Step 11: Place the dipped cookies on parchment paper and immediately sprinkle with nonpareils, if you’re using them.
- Step 12: Let the candy coating set completely before serving or storing your beautiful creations.
Pro Tips for the Best Spritz Cookies
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really make these classic cookies shine. Following these tips will ensure your holiday baking is a sweet success!
- Ensure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This is key for the dough’s consistency and prevents spreading.
- Don’t overmix the flour into the dough once it’s added. Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and delicate.
- Chill the dough for about 15-30 minutes if it feels too soft to press. This makes it easier to handle.
- Use ungreased baking sheets or parchment paper. Parchment makes cleanup a breeze and helps cookies release easily.
What’s the secret to perfect Spritz Cookies?
The secret to perfect no-spread spritz cookies lies in the butter and sugar creaming technique. Creaming them until light and fluffy incorporates air, which helps the cookies hold their shape beautifully. For more baking tips, check out our guide on baking with grains.
Can I make Spritz Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! The spritz cookie dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored, tightly wrapped, in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before pressing.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Spritz Cookies?
The most common mistake is why are my spritz cookies spreading – this usually happens if the butter is too soft or the dough is overmixed. Another pitfall is pressing the dough onto hot baking sheets; always use cool or room temperature sheets. Learn more about common baking pitfalls.
Best Ways to Serve Holiday Spritz Cookies
These beautiful cookies are perfect for any festive gathering. They look stunning on a holiday dessert platter, especially when you get creative with spritz cookie decorating ideas. Try dipping them halfway into melted red or green candy melts and then adding some festive nonpareil sprinkles for a pop of color and crunch. They pair wonderfully with a warm mug of hot cocoa or a glass of cold milk, making them a delightful treat for both kids and adults. For an extra touch, arrange them alongside other classic Christmas cookies for a truly spectacular holiday spread. You might also enjoy our recipe for Cinnamon Orange Jam Linzer Cookies.
Nutrition Facts for Spritz Cookies
Per serving (recipe makes approximately 24 cookies, with 1-2 cookies per serving depending on size and decorations):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if candy melts and sprinkles are added.
How to Store and Reheat Spritz Cookies
Once your beautiful spritz cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to think about storage. Proper storage ensures they stay fresh and delicious for your guests. I always let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. If you live in a warmer climate or have used candy melts, it’s best to refrigerate them to prevent the coating from melting.
For longer-term storage of spritz cookies, you can freeze them! Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bring them to room temperature directly from the freezer. If they have a candy coating, avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can melt unevenly. For more storage tips, see our guide on storing homemade sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spritz Cookies
What are spritz cookies?
Spritz cookies are a type of butter cookie known for their delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture and beautiful, pressed shapes. They are traditionally made using a cookie press, which allows you to create intricate designs like wreaths, stars, and shells. They are a beloved classic, especially during the holidays.
What is the best spritz cookie recipe?
The best spritz cookie recipe is one that balances buttery flavor with a dough that’s easy to press and holds its shape well. This recipe is fantastic because it uses simple ingredients and provides clear instructions, ensuring you get delicious, beautifully shaped cookies every time. The key is the creaming of butter and sugar and not overmixing the flour.
Why do my spritz cookies spread so much?
There are a few common reasons why your spritz cookies might be spreading excessively. Often, it’s because the butter was too soft or even melted, or the dough was overmixed after adding the flour. Using room temperature ingredients and gently combining the flour are crucial steps to achieve no-spread spritz cookies. You can find more information on achieving perfect cookie textures by looking into food science.
Can I use different extracts in my spritz cookies?
Absolutely! While vanilla and almond are classic flavors, feel free to experiment. Lemon extract, peppermint extract, or even a touch of orange zest can add wonderful variations to your Christmas spritz cookies. Just be mindful of the amount, as extracts can be potent.
Variations of Spritz Cookies You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, you’ll love experimenting with different flavors and twists on this beloved cookie. These variations are perfect for adding extra cheer to your holiday baking.
- German Spritz Cookies: For a taste of tradition, try incorporating a bit of lemon zest into the dough. This authentic touch gives German spritz cookies a bright, refreshing flavor that’s absolutely delightful.
- Chocolate Spritz Cookies: Easily make chocolate spritz cookies by adding 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. You might need to add an extra tablespoon or two of flour to maintain the correct dough consistency.
- Holiday Spritz Cookies: Elevate your Christmas spritz cookies by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor. You can also use festive colored sprinkles mixed into the dough before pressing for an extra pop of color.
- Gluten-Free Spritz Cookies: Substitute a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still be wonderfully buttery and festive!
Magical Spritz Cookies: 12 Delicious Variations
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Spritz cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth holiday treats perfect for beginners. Easy to make with a cookie press, they offer endless decorating possibilities.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Salted Sweet Cream Butter, softened
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 large Egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon Clear Vanilla Flavoring
- 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup Red Candy Melts, melted (optional)
- 1 cup Green Candy Melts, melted (optional)
- 1 cup Nonpareil Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cream softened butter for 1-1.5 minutes until creamy.
- Add granulated sugar and mix for another minute until well combined.
- Incorporate the egg, vanilla flavoring, and almond extract, blending until smooth.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour on low speed, mixing just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Press the spritz cookie dough into a cookie press with your desired disk shape.
- Press the dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8 minutes, or until the edges are just set.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Melt red and green candy melts in separate heat-safe bowls, stirring every minute until fully melted.
- Dip each cookie halfway into the melted candy melts.
- Place the dipped cookies on parchment paper and sprinkle with nonpareils, if using.
- Allow the candy melts to set before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use softened butter, not melted.
- Avoid overmixing the flour to keep the cookies tender.
- Use parchment paper on baking sheets for easy removal.
- Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes to firm up.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerate cookies in warm climates to prevent the candy coating from melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 45 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
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