The sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies can transport anyone to a cherished holiday memory, can’t it? That’s exactly what my Classic Buttery Spritz Cookies do for me. Bursting with tender texture and enriched with the delightful hints of vanilla and almond, this recipe is as quick and easy as it is delicious—perfect for those spontaneous baking sessions when friends drop by unannounced. Not only do these cookies add a festive touch to any gathering, but they also invite your creativity with vibrant colors and playful decorations. Whether you’re looking to impress at a party or simply indulge your sweet tooth, these buttery delights are calling your name. So, are you ready to whip up a batch that’ll surely put a smile on everyone’s face?
Why are Buttery Spritz Cookies so special?
Tender Texture: These cookies melt in your mouth, creating a delightful experience with every bite.
Quick & Easy: You can whip them up in no time—including colorful variations that spark joy during holiday festivities!
Perfect for Sharing: Their vibrant decor makes them a hit when served on platters or gifted in cute bags, just like my Cool Whip Cookies that are equally popular.
Customizable Flavors: Swap out almond for lemon zest for a refreshing twist or keep it classic—whatever suits your taste!
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for parties, these cookies are sure to please both kids and adults alike with their festive charm.
Make them ahead and store them in an airtight container to enjoy all week!
Buttery Spritz Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – This is the primary fat that gives the cookies their rich flavor and tender texture; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness while also helping to create a perfect cookie structure.
- Large Egg – Binds all the ingredients together and adds necessary moisture to the dough.
- Vanilla Extract – A classic flavor enhancer that rounds out the taste beautifully.
- Almond Extract – Contributes a distinctive nutty flavor; you can substitute this with more vanilla extract for a more traditional taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – This is essential for providing structure to your buttery spritz cookies.
- Salt – A pinch balances the sweetness and brings out all the flavors.
Optional Decorations
- Gel Food Coloring – Feel free to add a pop of color to your dough, but remember to use it sparingly to avoid affecting the texture.
- Sprinkles – Add these for an extra touch of fun and visual appeal; they brighten up any cookie platter!
Make your holiday gatherings even more special with these vibrant and delightful buttery spritz cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Spritz Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin your journey to making delightful Buttery Spritz Cookies by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven warms up, line your baking sheets with silicone baking mats or parchment paper. This preparation ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and won’t stick, setting the stage for perfect holiday treats.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add your room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and has lightened in color. This crucial step is vital for incorporating air into the dough, which results in those tender, melt-in-your-mouth Buttery Spritz Cookies.
Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts
Once your butter and sugar are beautifully creamed, crack in the large egg along with the vanilla and almond extracts. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined—about 30 seconds should suffice. You’ll notice a creamy consistency that invites the remaining dry ingredients, enhancing the flavor profile of your cookies.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring in the dry ingredients! Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt into the creamed mixture. Using a spatula, carefully fold in the flour until the dough forms and no dry clumps remain. This gentle mixing keeps your cookies light and perfect while ensuring all the flavors are well-distributed.
Step 5: Color the Dough (Optional)
If you wish to add some flair, divide the dough into portions and incorporate gel food coloring into each. Use a toothpick to add small amounts of color, carefully blending until you achieve your desired shade. Remember to keep a close eye on the dough’s texture, as too much coloring can alter its consistency.
Step 6: Prepare the Cookie Press
Fill your cookie press with the prepared dough for those charming shapes that define Buttery Spritz Cookies. As you press the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, space them closely together because these cookies won’t spread much. Aim for neatly formed shapes that are ready to shine at your festive gatherings.
Step 7: Add Sparkle with Sprinkles
Before baking, take a moment to decorate your pressed cookies with sprinkles if you desire. This step adds a festive touch that enhances visual appeal, making your cookies perfect for celebrations. Each sprinkle adds a touch of color, making your Buttery Spritz Cookies more inviting.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven and let your cookies bake for 5-8 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, removing them from the oven when the edges start to turn lightly golden. If you prefer softer cookies, aim for the lower end of the baking time to achieve that tender texture.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, carefully remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 4-5 minutes. This step allows them to set and makes transferring easier. After they’ve cooled slightly, move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture.
Buttery Spritz Cookies: Creative Twists
Feel free to bring your personal touch to these buttery delights; let your imagination run wild as you bake!
- Flavor Swap: Replace almond extract with lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens your cookies.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring that your cookies remain deliciously tender.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every buttery bite—perfect for indulgent occasions!
- Fruity Variations: Mix in finely chopped dried fruits like cherries or cranberries for an unexpected burst of flavor and texture.
- Spiced Options: Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy flavor that’s especially inviting during the holidays.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and taste.
- Decorative Magic: Experiment with different shapes and colored sprinkles to elevate your holiday cookie presentation, making them even more festive.
- Layered Treats: Sandwich two cookies with a layer of buttercream or fruit preserves to create delightful cookie sandwiches that look as good as they taste.
Explore other delightful recipes like Millies Cookies Bake or Cake Mix Cookies for new treats to try!
How to Store and Freeze Buttery Spritz Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container. Just let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
Dough Storage: If making ahead, refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days. Bring it back to room temperature before pressing and baking your buttery spritz cookies.
Expert Tips for Buttery Spritz Cookies
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Proper Butter Temperature: Make sure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for optimal blending. Room temperature fat yields fluffy cookies!
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Chill If Necessary: If your dough gets warm while working, chill it briefly to maintain the shape during baking. This prevents flat cookies.
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Test Cookie: Before baking the whole batch, press a test cookie to check if the dough holds its shape. Adjust baking time if needed.
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Clean Cookie Press: Between batches, clean your cookie press plates to ensure designs stay sharp and details remain defined for perfect buttery spritz cookies.
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Even Baking: Rotate cookie sheets halfway through baking for even results. Your cookies will have that perfect golden edge all around!
What to Serve with Buttery Spritz Cookies?
Set the stage for a delightful holiday gathering, pairing scrumptious buttery spritz cookies with these charming additions that enhance every bite.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm, velvety drink that complements the buttery sweetness perfectly, inviting cozy moments by the fire.
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Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: Crunchy and sweet, these spiced nuts add a delightful contrast, making every mouthful a symphony of flavors.
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Fruit Platter: Fresh seasonal fruits bring a burst of brightness and balance to the rich cookies, creating a colorful treat display.
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Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, this classic holiday drink is a festive companion, enhancing the warmth of your cookie experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place two spritz cookies around a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat that will surely please everyone.
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Gingerbread Men: Adding another layer of holiday spirit, these spiced cookies harmonize wonderfully with the buttery flavor, evoking festive memories.
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Festive Cheeses: A small cheese board with mild cheeses offers a savory counterpoint to the sweetness, inviting guests to enjoy contrasting flavors.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The luscious sweetness of strawberries dipped in chocolate adds a special touch that pairs beautifully with your cookies.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: Refreshing and bubbly, this drink is an excellent non-alcoholic option that enhances the joy of the celebration.
Embrace the holiday spirit with these suggestions, turning your gathering into a deliciously unforgettable feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Buttery Spritz Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing it up and refrigerating it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply bring the dough back to room temperature, fill your cookie press, and shape them as desired. If you prefer, you can also shape the cookies and freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 24 hours—just bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, melt-in-your-mouth Buttery Spritz Cookies that taste just as delightful, saving you precious time without compromising on quality!
Buttery Spritz Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best butter for my Buttery Spritz Cookies?
Absolutely! Always use unsalted butter at room temperature for your cookies. This ensures optimal mixing and prevents the cookies from becoming too salty. You’ll want your butter to be soft but not melting, as this contributes to that perfect tender texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover Buttery Spritz Cookies?
You can store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For best results, place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. If you want to enjoy them longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, just allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze my Buttery Spritz Cookies for later?
Yes, definitely! Freeze your baked cookies for up to 2 months. To do this, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer the cookies into a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge.
My dough seems too soft; what should I do?
Very! If your dough becomes too warm and soft while mixing, it can cause your cookies to spread too much during baking. The solution? Chill the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before using your cookie press. This will help maintain their charming shapes and achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
Could anyone with nut allergies enjoy these cookies?
Of course! If someone you’re serving has nut allergies, simply omit the almond extract and use an equal amount of vanilla instead. This keeps the overall flavor beautiful while ensuring it’s safe for everyone to enjoy!
How can I add fun colors to my Buttery Spritz Cookies?
Absolutely! To color your dough, divide it into portions and use gel food coloring—adding tiny drops at a time and mixing thoroughly until you achieve your desired shade. Be cautious with the amounts; too much coloring can affect the dough’s texture and baking. Enjoy your color journey!
Buttery Spritz Cookies - Melt-in-Your-Mouth Holiday Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until fully combined, about 30 seconds.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt, folding until no dry clumps remain.
- If using, divide the dough and incorporate gel food coloring to achieve desired shades.
- Fill a cookie press with the dough and press onto prepared baking sheets.
- Decorate with sprinkles if desired before baking.
- Bake cookies for 5-8 minutes until edges are lightly golden. For softer cookies, check on the lower end of the baking time.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
