This spritz cookie recipe has been in my family for years! Buttery, tender, and decorated with sprinkles, they’re our favorite Christmas cookies.
Introduction to Spritz Cookies
This spritz cookie recipe comes straight from my mom’s recipe box! My family has been making it every Christmas for over 40 years—my first kitchen memory is of baking these spritz cookies with my mom and sister for the holidays.
Made with a 6-ingredient dough, these spritz cookies are buttery, tender, and scented with almond extract, not unlike sugar cookies or shortbread. What sets them apart from other cookies is how they’re made. Spritz cookies get their festive shapes from a cookie press. Their name comes from the German word spritzen, which means “to squirt,” reflecting how the dough expels from the press.
I hope you’ll try this spritz cookie recipe this holiday season. Delicious, easy to make, and fun to decorate, it’s one of my absolute favorites. Don’t let the cookie press intimidate you—this recipe is simple, and I think you’ll love it.
How to Make Spritz Cookies
You can find the complete spritz cookie recipe with measurements at the bottom of this post. Here’s a quick overview:
- Start by making the cookie dough. We use softened butter in this recipe, so I make the dough in my stand mixer.
- Next, shape the cookies. Load the dough into your cookie press and press out onto ungreased sheet pans to form your desired shapes.
Tip: If the dough isn’t holding its shape, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up. - Decorate them as desired. Top with colored sugar or sprinkles before baking.
- Bake until lightly golden brown around the edges, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Allow to cool for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Use a Cookie Press
Let’s talk about cookie presses! I recommend these two:
Here’s a general step-by-step on how to use a cookie press:
- Select your desired shape: Remove the bottom cover from the cookie press and place the desired shape plate inside.
- Fill the press with cookie dough: Pull back the rod and fill the barrel.
- Shape the cookies: Reattach the bottom cover, hold the press upright, and press down to form a cookie. If the dough doesn’t stick, gently remove it with your fingers or a blade.
Check your specific cookie press instructions for any variations.
How to Store Spritz Cookies
Spritz cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or they can be frozen for up to 3 months. They thaw well at room temperature within an hour.
More Christmas Cookie Recipes
If you love these classic spritz cookies, here are some other holiday cookie recipes you might enjoy:
- Snowball Cookies
- Gingerbread Cookies
- Pecan Sandies
Recipe for Spritz Cookies
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Softened Butter | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Almond Extract | 1 tsp |
| Flour | 2 cups |
| Baking Powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In a mixer, cream the butter, then add sugar, egg, and almond extract. Combine well.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients. Use a cookie press to shape the cookies.
- Decorate and bake for 8 to 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes spritz cookies unique?
Spritz cookies are unique because they are shaped using a cookie press, which allows for a variety of festive shapes.
Can I use a different flavor extract?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with vanilla or lemon extract in place of almond extract.
What is the best way to store spritz cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for extended freshness.