Spritz cookies are a delightful holiday treat that bring comfort and joy to any gathering. Their buttery flavor and beautiful shapes make them a favorite for festive occasions.
Why Make This?
These spritz cookies are a cherished tradition, often made during the holiday season. Their name comes from the German word 'spritzen', which means to squirt or spray, reflecting how the dough is pressed through a cookie press or piping bag to create intricate designs. The irresistible buttery taste, combined with a hint of vanilla, makes these cookies melt in your mouth.
What makes this recipe truly special is the versatility and ease of making these cookies. They can be shaped into festive designs, decorated with colorful sprinkles, or even drizzled with chocolate for an extra touch. This recipe is perfect for baking with family, allowing everyone to join in on the fun as they create their own unique shapes and decorations. Enjoy these treats with a warm cup of cocoa or share them as gifts during the holiday season.
Equipment Lineup
To make spritz cookies, you will need the following equipment:
- A cookie press or piping bag with star or flower tip
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack. Having these essential tools will streamline the baking process and help you achieve the perfect cookie texture and design.
Tips You Can't Live Without
When making spritz cookies, ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture. Using a cookie press can be tricky; if the dough is too soft, chill it in the fridge for a short time before pressing. For easier shaping, preheat your baking sheets slightly. Make sure to keep the cookies spaced evenly on the baking sheet to allow for even baking. Always check that your cookies are golden around the edges before removing them from the oven.
Food safety is crucial, especially when baking. Always wash your hands and surfaces before starting. If you are using any decorations or toppings, check to ensure they are safe to consume and free from allergens. Store any leftover dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Recipe Card
Ingredients
- one cup (unsalted butter, softened)
- three-fourths cup (granulated sugar)
- one large egg (room temperature)
- two teaspoons (vanilla extract)
- two and one-fourth cups (all-purpose flour)
- one teaspoon (baking powder)
- one-fourth teaspoon (salt)
- optional sprinkles or colored sugar (for decoration)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fill the cookie press with the dough and press onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about one inch apart.
- If desired, sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar or sprinkles before baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for eight to ten minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Change It Up
There are numerous ways to elevate your spritz cookies. Consider adding different flavors such as almond or lemon extract to give a unique twist to the classic recipe. You can also incorporate finely chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough for added texture. Try using food coloring to make vibrant cookies for special occasions. To decorate, dip half of the baked cookies in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candies or nuts for a festive flair.
Serve It With
Spritz cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are still warm, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for several days. Serve them on a beautiful platter at holiday gatherings, or place them in decorative tins for gifting. Pair these cookies with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate to enhance the delightful experience.
Emergency Fixes
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The dough is too crumbly and won’t hold its shape. | Make sure the butter is adequately softened and mix until the dough is smooth and cohesive. If it remains crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk to help bind the ingredients. |
| Cookies lose their shape during baking. | Ensure the cookie press is filled properly and that the dough is not too warm. Chilling the dough before pressing can help maintain the shape. |
| Cookies are too hard after baking. | Avoid over-baking; check the cookies a few minutes before the recommended time. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. |
Questions I Get Asked
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, butter provides the best flavor and texture for spritz cookies.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
Cookies may spread if the dough is too warm or if they are not chilled before baking.
Can I freeze spritz cookies?
Yes, baked spritz cookies can be frozen for up to three months. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container.
