Spritz Cookies

Spritz cookies are a timeless classic that have been gracing holiday cookie trays and festive tables for generations. These delicate, buttery treats are known for their crisp edges, tender centers, and beautiful shapes created by a cookie press. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, spritz cookies are incredibly satisfying to make and even more delightful to eat. Their subtle vanilla flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a crowd favorite, perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting during special occasions. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring a touch of tradition and sweetness into your kitchen any time of the year.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’ve ever admired spritz cookies in bakery windows or at holiday parties, now is your chance to create them at home with a recipe that’s both foolproof and delicious. This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients and a straightforward method that results in perfectly tender, buttery cookies every single time. Unlike many cookie recipes that require chilling dough and multiple steps, this one comes together quickly, making it ideal for last-minute baking projects.

What sets this spritz cookie recipe apart is the balance between crispness and softness — these cookies hold their shape beautifully when pressed, bake up with golden edges, and have just enough sweetness to satisfy without overpowering. Plus, you can customize the shapes and decorations to fit any occasion, adding sprinkles or colored sugar for a festive touch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups (315 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: colored sanding sugar or sprinkles for decoration

How To Make Spritz Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Gather all your ingredients and a cookie press — this tool is essential for creating the classic shapes spritz cookies are known for.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes and is crucial for achieving that tender texture.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The egg adds richness and helps bind the dough, while the vanilla enhances the cookie’s flavor with a warm, inviting aroma.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 5: Load the Dough Into the Cookie Press

Fill your cookie press with the dough. If the dough feels too soft, you can chill it for 15-20 minutes to firm up, making it easier to press. Choose your desired cookie disk attachment and press the cookies directly onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 6: Decorate and Bake

If using colored sanding sugar or sprinkles, gently press them onto the tops of the cookies before baking. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cool, these cookies are perfect for stacking in tins, sharing with friends, or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.

Expert Tips

• Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better dough consistency.
• Don’t skip the baking powder — it helps the cookies hold their shape while giving a light texture.
• If you don’t have a cookie press, you can pipe the dough using a sturdy plastic bag fitted with a large star tip.
• Chill the dough slightly if it’s too soft to press, but avoid over-chilling as it can make pressing difficult.
• For even baking, rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
• Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Variations and Customizations

• Almond Spritz Cookies: Replace 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty twist.
• Citrus Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of finely grated lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright, refreshing flavor.
• Chocolate Spritz: Mix 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a chocolatey version.
• Decorate Creatively: Use colored sugars, edible glitter, or small candy pieces to decorate before baking.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend suitable for cookies, adjusting as necessary.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your spritz cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crisp and flavorful for up to two weeks. If you plan to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature. Avoid storing cookies in the refrigerator as this can cause them to become dry and lose their tender texture.

FAQ

Can I make spritz cookies without a cookie press?

Yes! If you don’t have a cookie press, you can use a piping bag fitted with a large star tip or a sturdy plastic bag with the corner snipped off. While the shapes may not be as precise, you can still create beautiful cookies by piping the dough onto the baking sheet.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before pressing?

Chilling the dough is not always necessary, but if your dough feels too soft or sticky, chilling it for 15-20 minutes can make it easier to handle. Just be careful not to over-chill, as very stiff dough can be difficult to press through the cookie press.

Can I use margarine or oil instead of butter?

Butter is preferred for spritz cookies because it provides the best flavor and texture. Margarine or oil will change the taste and may affect how the dough presses and bakes. If you must substitute, use a high-quality margarine with a similar fat content, but expect slightly different results.

How long do spritz cookies keep fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, spritz cookies stay fresh for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freezing is recommended. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the cookies.

Conclusion

Spritz cookies are a delightful treat that bring charm and nostalgia to any occasion. With their buttery flavor, delicate texture, and endless possibilities for customization, they’re a recipe worth mastering. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special celebration, or just because, this spritz cookie recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So grab your cookie press, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade spritz cookies that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Happy baking!