Spritz cookies are simple to make yet feel special thanks to their pretty shapes and buttery flavor. The dough comes together quickly, and a cookie press lets you create fun seasonal designs. These cookies are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee and make lovely gifts or party treats.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
All‑purpose flour
Unsalted butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract (or almond extract)
Salt
Optional: colored sugar or sprinkles
Directions
Preheat your oven and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla (or almond) extract.
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
Fit a cookie press with your chosen design plate and fill it with dough.
Press shapes directly onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing cookies evenly.
Sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on top if desired.
Bake until the cookies are lightly golden at the edges.
Cool on the baking sheet briefly, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and timing
Makes about 36 cookies (depending on size and design). Prep time: 15–20 minutes Bake time: 8–12 minutes per batch Total time: ~40–50 minutes
Storage/Reheating
Store spritz cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1–2 weeks. Layer sheets of wax or parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking. There’s no need to reheat — they’re best enjoyed at room temperature. If cookies lose crispness, you can briefly warm them in a low‑heat oven to refresh texture.
FAQs
What makes spritz cookies special?
Spritz cookies are distinguished by their buttery flavor and decorative shapes created with a cookie press.
Do I need a cookie press?
A cookie press makes shaping easy and decorative, but you can also roll the dough and cut shapes with cookie cutters.
Can I use almond extract?
Yes, almond extract adds a lovely flavor that pairs well with the buttery dough.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If the butter was too soft or the dough warm, cookies may spread. Chill the dough slightly before pressing.
Can I add sprinkles or colored sugar?
Yes, add them before baking for a festive look and added texture.
How long do spritz cookies last?
Stored in an airtight container, they last about 1–2 weeks at room temperature.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze dough logs or shaped dough on trays before storing in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
How do I prevent cookies from sticking?
Make sure your cookie press or cutter is clean and lightly dusted with flour if needed.
Can I make these gluten‑free?
Use a gluten‑free flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly from traditional cookies.
What occasions are spritz cookies good for?
They’re popular during holidays like Christmas, but great for birthdays, parties, or anytime you want a pretty, tasty cookie.
Conclusion
Spritz cookies are delightful, buttery treats with charming shapes and simple flavors. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for festive occasions or everyday snacking. Enjoy them with tea, coffee, or as part of a cookie exchange!
Classic buttery spritz cookies with crisp edges and a tender interior, traditionally shaped with a cookie press into festive designs. Perfect for holidays or anytime you crave a melt-in-your-mouth treat.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:12 minutes
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:36 cookies
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:German-American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional: colored sugar or sprinkles, for decorating
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, then mix in the vanilla or almond extract.
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until the dough is smooth and well combined.
Fill a cookie press with the dough and press shapes directly onto the prepared baking sheets.
Decorate with colored sugar or sprinkles if desired.
Bake for 8–12 minutes, or until edges are just starting to turn golden.
Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use a cookie press for traditional shapes, or roll and cut with cookie cutters if preferred.If dough is too soft to hold shape, chill it briefly before pressing.Switch up flavors with different extracts like lemon, orange, or peppermint.Cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container.Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking when storing.
