There is something truly magical about a classic Spritz Cookies Recipe that captivates both the eyes and the taste buds. These delicate, buttery cookies are not only delightfully crisp but also offer a tender melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible. Perfectly shaped with a cookie press and often adorned with colorful sprinkles or sanding sugars, spritz cookies bring a warm sense of nostalgia and festive cheer to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this Spritz Cookies Recipe is a beloved staple that’s surprisingly easy to master and share with those you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy in making this Spritz Cookies Recipe. Each essential component plays a unique role to ensure the cookies come out perfectly crisp, flavorful, and beautiful every time.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226 grams, room temperature): Provides rich flavor and the perfect buttery texture that defines classic spritz cookies.
- Granulated sugar (â…” cup / 133 grams): Adds just the right amount of sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon / 3 grams): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Large egg yolks (3, room temperature): Contribute to the cookies’ richness and help bind the dough together.
- Pure vanilla extract (½ teaspoon / 2 grams): Adds warm, familiar aromatic notes that complement the buttery base.
- Almond extract (½ teaspoon / 2 grams): Infuses a subtle nutty essence that makes these cookies stand out in the best way.
- All-purpose flour (2½ cups / 300 grams): The foundation that gives the cookies their delicate structure without being too dense.
- Sprinkles and sanding sugars (optional): Perfect for adding festive color and a touch of crunch when decorating.
How to Make Spritz Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. It’s best to skip parchment paper here and bake the cookies directly on baking sheets to ensure they crisp up beautifully. Setting everything up early keeps your process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Salt
Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the room temperature butter, sugar, and salt together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale—around 3 minutes. This step is crucial for that tender texture and lovely rise.
Step 3: Add Egg Yolks
Add each egg yolk one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Egg yolks enrich the dough, lending depth and helping your cookies hold their shape during baking.
Step 4: Incorporate Extracts
Next, blend in the vanilla and almond extracts just until combined. These two extracts are what give this Spritz Cookies Recipe its signature aroma and flavor that will have everyone swooning.
Step 5: Fold in Flour
Turn your mixer off to add the flour, then mix on low speed just until the flour disappears into the dough. Overmixing here can toughen the dough, so keep it gentle for tender results.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Follow the instructions for your cookie press to shape the dough directly onto the baking sheets. This is one of the most fun parts — watching those intricate and festive shapes come to life! If desired, sprinkle your cookies with colorful sanding sugars or festive sprinkles to add a cheerful sparkle.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—when the edges start to turn a very light golden brown, they are ready to come out. This short baking time ensures they stay crisp yet tender.
Step 8: Cool Completely
Finally, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps maintain their crisp texture and prevents sogginess.
How to Serve Spritz Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While spritz cookies are lovely on their own, adding garnishes can make your presentation pop. Classic options like sparkling sanding sugars or colorful sprinkles infuse the cookies with eye-catching charm and a hint of extra sweetness. You can also dip some cookies in melted chocolate for an elegant twist.
Side Dishes
Spritz cookies pair wonderfully with simple accompaniments. A warm cup of tea or coffee is a natural match, as their delicate sweetness complements the bitterness of the beverage. They also go well alongside a light fruit compote or custard for a delightful dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or holiday gatherings, arrange your spritz cookies on beautiful vintage trays or tiered stands to make the spread feel extra special. Wrapping small bundles with colorful ribbons makes for charming edible gifts that friends and family will adore. You can even sandwich them with a thin layer of fruit jam or chocolate ganache for a playful variation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once fully cooled, store spritz cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh and crisp for up to one week. Placing parchment paper between layers helps prevent sticking and preserves their pretty shapes.
Freezing
You can freeze spritz cookies either before or after baking. For dough, shape the cookies on a lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to three months. For baked cookies, freeze in airtight containers with parchment layers; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked crispness from stored or slightly stale cookies, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 3-5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make cookies soft and chewy rather than crisp.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter in this Spritz Cookies Recipe?
It’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe. Using salted butter might make the cookies too salty, but if salted butter is all you have, reduce or omit added salt accordingly.
What if I don’t have a cookie press?
You can still make this recipe without a cookie press by rolling out the dough and using small cookie cutters to create shapes. It won’t have the intricate pressed designs but will still taste delicious.
Can I substitute extracts like lemon or orange for vanilla and almond?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with extracts like lemon, orange, or even coconut to customize these cookies and create new favorite flavors.
Why shouldn’t I use parchment paper for baking these cookies?
Baking spritz cookies directly on baking sheets helps them crisp up properly. Parchment paper can prevent this slight crispness, leading to a softer bottom that’s not quite as classic.
How long do spritz cookies last once baked?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, spritz cookies maintain their fresh taste and texture for about one week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for events.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try out this wonderful Spritz Cookies Recipe! With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a joy to make and share. These cookies bring a nostalgic touch, vibrant charm, and a buttery sweetness that truly turns any moment into a special occasion. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delightful scent of spritz cookies soon!
