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Spritz cookies are the perfect festive treat that feel just as special during holiday gatherings as they do year-round. These light and buttery cookies stand out because of their delightful shapes made with a cookie press, and they are surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you want to make colorful snowflakes or classic Christmas trees, spritz cookies bring a charming and customizable touch to your cookie platter.
I first made these spritz cookies for a holiday party and was amazed at how the cookie press turned ordinary dough into festive art. Now I enjoy baking them throughout the year to brighten up any occasion.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: perfect for a tender cookie structure sift it to avoid lumps
- Kosher salt: enhances the buttery flavor of the cookies
- Unsalted butter: softened for optimal creaming and texture
- Granulated sugar: adds sweetness and helps achieve the right cookie crispness
- Large egg: binds the ingredients and adds richness to the dough
- Almond extract or pure vanilla extract: provides the classic nutty or warm flavor
- Liquid food coloring: lets you create bright, festive designs pick high-quality colors for vibrant results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sift the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk the flour and kosher salt together thoroughly to ensure even distribution of salt and to keep the dough light.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is smooth, fluffy, and pale, about 4 minutes. This step is essential for a light cookie texture.
- Incorporate Egg and Extract:
- Add the egg and your chosen almond or vanilla extract. Continue mixing for about 2 minutes until everything blends into a homogenous dough base.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating until just incorporated to avoid overdeveloping the gluten which can make cookies tough.
- Color the Dough:
- Divide two-thirds of the dough evenly into two bowls and add your desired food coloring to each. Mix well until the color is vibrant. Leave the last third plain or a single color depending on your design plan.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Load the colored dough into your spritz cookie press following the manufacturer’s guidance. Press the dough onto two ungreased baking sheets with about one inch spacing to allow for slight spreading.
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, rotating the pans halfway through. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and cookies feel firm when touched. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make Ahead and Storage:
- Spritz cookie dough can be prepared ahead and frozen for up to one month. Bring to room temperature before using in the cookie press. Baked cookies stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
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Storage Tips
Keep your cookies crispy longer by storing them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread helps maintain moisture balance. For the dough, portion it into logs, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for easy access whenever the craving hits.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have almond extract, vanilla extract is a great alternative that keeps the flavor classic. For a nutty twist, try adding a bit of finely ground nuts to the dough. Use softened margarine if you want a dairy-free option but remember it may slightly change the texture.
Serving Suggestions
Spritz cookies pair wonderfully with hot tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. Dress them up with colored sugar sprinkles after pressing the dough for a festive look, or sandwich two cookies together with jam or frosting for a delightful twist.
Cultural Context
Spritz cookies originate from German baking traditions with the name spritz meaning to squirt, highlighting how the cookie press shapes the dough. They became popular in American holiday baking for their ease and festive appeal.
Pro Tips
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted to keep dough consistency just right
- Do not overmix once the dry ingredients are added to keep cookies tender
- Practice with your cookie press on parchment paper to get comfortable before pressing directly on baking sheets for best shapes
Common Recipe Questions
- → What gives spritz cookies their unique shape?
The distinctive shapes come from using a cookie press that squeezes the dough out in decorative patterns before baking.
- → Can I flavor the dough differently?
Yes, almond or vanilla extract are common options to add subtle, complementary flavors to the dough.
- → How should spritz cookie dough be stored?
The dough can be frozen for up to one month. Thaw it to room temperature before pressing and baking.
- → What is the ideal baking temperature and time?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 13 to 15 minutes until edges are lightly golden and cookies are firm to the touch.
- → How can I decorate spritz cookies?
Use food coloring in the dough for vibrant shades or add sprinkles and colored sugar on top before baking for festive touches.
- → How long do baked cookies stay fresh?
Store finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature; they remain fresh for up to two weeks.