The aroma wafting from the oven takes me back to my grandmother's cozy kitchen, where buttery spritz cookies were the highlight of every holiday gathering. These delightful little treats are not just visually stunning with their whimsical shapes and colorful sprinkles—they’re also incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. With just a handful of ingredients, my Buttery Spritz Cookies come together in mere minutes, and they hold the secret to brightening any occasion. Plus, this recipe yields a generous batch, ensuring there are plenty to share or save for future cravings. Who can resist the allure of homemade cookies, especially when they’re as joyful as these? Ready to bring a touch of nostalgia back to your baking? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Buttery Spritz Cookies So Special?
Delightfully Simple: The ease of this recipe means anyone can join in the fun of baking, creating a beautiful batch of cookies effortlessly.
Irresistible Flavor: With the classic combination of vanilla and almond extracts, these cookies offer a taste that’s both rich and comforting, sure to warm your heart.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or an ordinary day, these spritz cookies bring a special touch to every moment, making them a crowd favorite.
Endless Creativity: Decorate them however you like—add colorful sprinkles or a splash of food coloring to personalize each batch to your liking! If you're looking for more festive ideas, check out our Holiday Cookie Guide.
Impressive Yield: With approximately 70 cookies per batch, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or simply keeping them all for yourself!
Nostalgic Fun: Remember the joy of pressing cookie shapes? This classic technique not only looks delightful but also creates cookies that evoke cherished memories, inviting you to relax and enjoy the process.
Buttery Spritz Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
• Unsalted butter – 1 cup (224g) at room temperature ensures a creamy consistency for your dough.
• Granulated sugar – ¾ cup (155g) adds sweetness and contributes to that delightful texture.
• Large egg – Just 1 brings richness and helps bind the ingredients together!
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon for that warm, inviting flavor everyone loves.
• Almond extract – 1 teaspoon lends a lovely hint of nutty aroma, enhancing the buttery flavor.
• All-purpose flour – 2 ¼ cups (293g) forms the bulk of the cookie, giving it structure.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon balances the sweetness, making these Buttery Spritz Cookies even more delicious.
Optional Decor
• Red gel icing color – Use this for vibrant holiday-themed cookies that'll impress your guests.
• Green gel icing color – Add a fun splash of color for a festive touch!
• Sprinkles – Perfect for an extra layer of sweetness and joy on top of your cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Spritz Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to create the perfect baking environment. While it warms up, line your baking sheets with silicone baking mats, ensuring they are ready for your delicious Buttery Spritz Cookies. This step is crucial for optimal baking and easy cookie removal later on.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter with ¾ cup granulated sugar. Using a mixer on medium speed, cream the butter and sugar together for about 3-4 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the mixture is light, fluffy, and has lightened in color—this is where that delightful texture begins!
Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts
Crack in 1 large egg and mix until fully incorporated into your creamy butter and sugar blend. Then, add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of almond extract, mixing well. This step infuses your Buttery Spritz Cookies with a rich and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth.
Step 4: Incorporate Flour and Salt
Gradually add 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix as you want a tender, delicate cookie. If necessary, use a rubber spatula to finish incorporating the dough, ensuring all ingredients meld beautifully without losing that fluffy texture.
Step 5: Color the Dough (Optional)
If you want to add a fun twist to your cookies, divide the dough into parts and gradually add red or green gel icing color, mixing until you achieve your desired hue. This step allows you to personalize your Buttery Spritz Cookies, making them even more festive and appealing to the eye.
Step 6: Load the Cookie Press
Now it’s time to load the dough into your cookie press, following the manufacturer’s directions for best results. Hold the press perpendicular to the lined cookie sheet and carefully press out cookies close together, creating beautiful shapes that reflect your festive spirit and creativity.
Step 7: Decorate with Sprinkles
Before baking, take a moment to sprinkle colorful toppings over your cookie shapes if desired. This extra touch enhances the visual appeal of your Buttery Spritz Cookies, inviting joy and excitement, especially for the little ones in your family who love to decorate.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Transfer your decorated cookie sheets to your preheated oven and bake for 5-8 minutes. For softer cookies, aim for the lower end of the baking time at about 5 minutes. Watch closely as they bake; they should be just turning lightly golden, signaling they are perfectly done.
Step 9: Cool and Finish
Once baked, cool the cookies on the baking sheets for about 4-5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time allows the Buttery Spritz Cookies to firm up slightly, ensuring they maintain their delightful shapes and soft centers.
How to Store and Freeze Buttery Spritz Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Buttery Spritz Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for the best taste and texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, these cookies can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they're well-sealed to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For even longer storage, freeze your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop in the microwave for a few seconds, bringing back that freshly baked goodness!
Buttery Spritz Cookies Variations
Feel free to switch things up and personalize these spritz cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for delicious cookies everyone can enjoy. This keeps the texture light without sacrificing flavor!
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Vegan: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter, creating a plant-based treat that’s equally delightful.
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Nutty Flavor Boost: Add ½ cup of finely chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts to the dough for a crunch that contrasts with the soft cookie base. The subtle nuttiness brings a new layer of flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for a rich twist. This combination of buttery sweetness with chocolate is undeniably dreamy and indulgent.
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Spiced Delight: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor. These spices are perfect for autumnal gatherings and holiday celebrations!
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Citrus Zest: Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough to enhance the flavors and bring a refreshing brightness to each bite. The fragrance alone is enough to make you smile!
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Heat it Up: For a bold twist, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder while preparing the dough. This unexpected kick transforms your cookies into a spicy-sweet surprise!
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Dipped in Icing: After the cookies cool, dip them in a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk or a splash of almond extract. It adds extra sweetness and a delightful shine!
These variations encourage you to explore new flavors and textures, making each batch a unique experience. Consider trying them all—your family and friends will love the surprises!
Expert Tips for Buttery Spritz Cookies
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Perfect Texture: Ensure the butter is at room temperature to achieve that creamy texture, making it easier to whip into a light and fluffy consistency.
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Mixing Matters: Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour; this ensures your Buttery Spritz Cookies remain tender and don't turn out tough.
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Coloring Caution: If adding gel icing color, start with just a tiny bit at a time; it's easier to darken than to lighten the dough.
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Cookie Press Technique: Hold the cookie press perpendicular to the baking sheet to ensure even shapes and avoid uneven cookies.
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Cooling Time: Don't skip cooling on the baking sheet first; this step helps set your cookies, so they keep their lovely shapes.
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Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. Aim for just a hint of golden edges for perfect cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Buttery Spritz Cookies are perfect for your meal prep needs! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients as directed, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining the dough’s quality. When you’re ready to bake, take the dough out and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature before loading it into your cookie press. This little waiting period ensures a smoother cookie pressing process. Bake as directed, and you'll enjoy fresh, delightful cookies without the last-minute stress!
What to Serve with Buttery Spritz Cookies?
The sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, inviting you to create a delightful spread for any gathering.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of rich hot chocolate provides a sweet and cozy backdrop that beautifully complements the buttery flavors.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoops of silky vanilla ice cream bring a creamy contrast to the cookie’s texture, offering absolute bliss with each bite.
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Festive Fruit Platter: A colorful array of fruits like berries and citrus adds freshness, balancing the sweetness of the cookies and refreshing your palate.
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Decadent Coffee: Pairing these cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee creates a lovely harmony of sweet and bitter, perfect for afternoon snacking.
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Milkshake Madness: A thick milkshake enhances the fun; think rich chocolate or vanilla for a delightful dunking experience that kids will adore.
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Cinnamon Sugar Puffs: For a whimsical touch, serve these light, airy puffs sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, offering an extra dimension to your cookie spread.
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Cheese and Cracker Board: Elevate your treat table with a selection of cheeses and savory crackers; the contrast of flavors will surprise and delight your guests.
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Holiday Punch: A refreshing holiday punch, made with fruity juices and sparkling water, acts as a festive drink that perfectly pairs with sweet treats like these cookies.
Creating a full meal experience around Buttery Spritz Cookies will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also impress family and friends with its appealing variety!
Buttery Spritz Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right butter for Buttery Spritz Cookies?
Absolutely! Make sure to use unsalted butter at room temperature for the best results. This creates a creamy texture that helps achieve that light and fluffy consistency essential for these cookies. Avoid margarine or spread as they can alter the taste and texture of your cookies.
How should I store leftover spritz cookies?
These delightful cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For even longer freshness, consider refrigerating them for up to 2 weeks. This protects the cookies from drying out and maintains their delightful softness!
Can I freeze Buttery Spritz Cookies?
Yes, you definitely can! Start by placing the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too soft?
If your dough is too soft and difficult to press, that often means the butter may not have been cold enough or you haven’t added enough flour. In this case, you can chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to help firm it up. If needed, gradually incorporate a bit more flour while mixing, but make sure not to overmix.
Are there any dietary considerations with Buttery Spritz Cookies?
Very! If you're concerned about allergies, these cookies contain dairy and gluten. For a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based butter alternative. Additionally, if anyone has egg allergies, you could try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute, although it may slightly change the texture of the cookies.
Delicious Buttery Spritz Cookies You’ll Love to Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line your baking sheets with silicone baking mats.
- Combine 1 cup of unsalted butter and ¾ cup granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl and cream together for 3-4 minutes.
- Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon almond extract; mix until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add 2 ¼ cups flour and ½ teaspoon salt, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the dough and add red or green gel icing color to parts if desired.
- Load the dough into your cookie press and press out cookie shapes onto the lined baking sheets.
- Sprinkle colorful toppings over your cookie shapes if desired.
- Bake for 5-8 minutes, aiming for just turning lightly golden.
- Cool the cookies on baking sheets for about 4-5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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