As I sat down to plan my holiday baking, the aroma of warm butter and vanilla wafted through my mind, conjuring memories of festive gatherings filled with laughter and treats. That’s when I knew it was time to whip up a batch of Classic Buttery Spritz Cookies. These delicious little morsels are not just a delight to eat; they offer the perfect way to add a touch of color and charm to any holiday spread. With quick prep and the delightful option to customize them with sprinkles, they’re not only a crowd-pleaser but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together in the kitchen. Want to know how these buttery delights can become your new go-to treat? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Buttery Spritz Cookies So Loved?
Irresistible Flavor: The buttery goodness combined with vanilla and almond extracts creates an aromatic treat that fills your home with the scents of the season.
Fun to Decorate: Use festive sprinkles or vibrant gel food coloring to personalize each cookie, making them perfect for any occasion.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward instructions and minimal prep time, you can whip up these cookies in no time, freeing up hours for holiday celebrations or family time.
A Tradition Worth Keeping: Spritz cookies have been a beloved staple in holiday baking, connecting generations through their delightful flavors and charming shapes.
Perfect for Gifting: Stack them in decorative tins or package in colorful bags to share the joy of homemade baking with loved ones. Find more festive ideas in my post on Gluten Free Cookies.
With all these reasons, it’s easy to see why everyone will adore your Classic Buttery Spritz Cookies!
Buttery Spritz Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – at room temperature, it lends the cookies richness and moisture.
- Granulated Sugar – sweetens and helps create a light texture when mixed.
- Large Egg – essential for binding and providing moisture for structure.
- Vanilla Extract – enhances the flavor; opt for high-quality for a richer taste.
- Almond Extract – offers a nutty note; feel free to omit or substitute with extra vanilla if preferred.
- All-Purpose Flour – the main structure component; avoid overmixing for a tender bite.
- Salt – balances sweetness and elevates flavor.
For Color and Decoration
- Gel Food Coloring (optional) – use sparingly to add vibrant hues to the dough without thinning it.
- Sprinkles (optional) – perfect for adding a festive touch; choose colors that match the season.
With these simple ingredients, your Buttery Spritz Cookies will become a holiday favorite, filling your kitchen with warmth and cheer!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Spritz Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This critical first step ensures that your Buttery Spritz Cookies bake evenly. While the oven warms up, line your baking sheets with silicone baking mats; this will prevent the cookies from sticking and help achieve a perfectly golden bottom.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, helping to create a tender texture in your cookies.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix on low speed until all the wet ingredients are fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. This step infuses moisture and flavor into your Buttery Spritz Cookies.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the dough. You want a soft, cohesive dough that’s not sticky and holds together beautifully, ready for shaping.
Step 5: Coloring the Dough (if desired)
If you’d like to add some color to your Buttery Spritz Cookies, divide the dough into manageable portions. Add a few drops of gel food coloring to each section and gently fold it in until evenly colored. Remember to keep your colors vibrant but not too thin; you want a firm dough for pressing.
Step 6: Press Cookies
Fill your cookie press with the prepared dough, ensuring it’s packed but not overly tight. Hold the press perpendicular to the lined baking sheet, and press out cookies close together. They won’t spread much during baking, so don’t worry about spacing too far apart.
Step 7: Bake
Place the trays in your preheated oven and bake for 5-8 minutes. You’re aiming for the cookies to be set but still slightly soft in the center. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain tender—a perfect balance for Buttery Spritz Cookies.
Step 8: Cool
Once baked, remove the trays from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 4-5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Ensure they cool completely so they maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Buttery Spritz Cookies
As you bask in the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies, it’s time to consider what delightful companions could enhance this festive treat.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: This creamy drink pairs beautifully with the buttery cookies, enriching your holiday experience with every sip.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream provides a contrast to the warm, tender cookies, making each bite exquisite.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the flavors in your cookies, creating a cozy pairing perfect for chilly evenings.
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Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of color and brightness, balancing the sweetness of the spritz cookies with its natural tartness.
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Glazed Lemon Bars: The zesty brightness of lemon bars offers a delightful contrast to the rich buttery cookies, giving a refreshing twist to your dessert table.
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Eggnog: For a little holiday cheer, serve your cookies with a glass of spiced eggnog; the creamy texture and warmth enhance the festive flavors.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The sweetness of chocolate-covered strawberries presents an elegant pairing, introducing a bit of indulgence to your cookie platter.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso intensifies the buttery flavor, making it a sophisticated pairing for an after-dinner treat.
With these delightful pairings, your Buttery Spritz Cookies will shine even brighter and create fond memories filled with flavor and joy!
How to Store and Freeze Buttery Spritz Cookies
Airtight Container: Store your Buttery Spritz Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Layer them with wax paper between to prevent sticking.
Reheat: Thaw cookies at room temperature before serving to bring back their soft and buttery goodness.
Dough Storage: If you want to prepare ahead, refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 3 days before baking; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Buttery Spritz Cookies: Customization Ideas
Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize these delightful cookies with these fun and tasty twists!
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Flavor Variations: Substitute almond extract with coconut or lemon extract for a unique flair. These swaps breathe new life into the classic taste and let you experiment with flavors your family loves.
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Gluten-Free Delight: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make a gluten-free version of these cookies, delicious and accommodating for friends with dietary restrictions. Check out my recipe for Gluten Free Cookies for more tips!
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added texture and flavor. This variation gives your cookies a delightful crunch and depth.
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Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate on top for an indulgent touch. It adds both sweetness and visual appeal that’ll impress your holiday guests.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, comforting spice flavor. These cozy notes perfectly enhance the buttery goodness and seasonal vibes of the cookies.
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Fun Sprinkles: Try different types of sprinkles, such as edible glitter or themed shapes for holidays, to make each cookie even more festive. The right sprinkles can transform these cookies into a dazzling centerpiece for any occasion.
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Multicolored Cookies: Divide the dough into sections and color each with different gel food colors. Roll them together to create a marbled or swirled effect that’s both fun and visually stunning!
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Serving Them Up: Consider packaging your Buttery Spritz Cookies in holiday-themed bags or stacked in a decorative tin for gifting. It’s a delightful way to share homemade joy with those you love!
With these ideas, you can surely create a batch of Buttery Spritz Cookies that reflects your taste and creativity, making each moment more special and memorable!
Make Ahead Options
These Buttery Spritz Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating the dough in an airtight container. This helps maintain its fresh flavor and prevents the dough from becoming too soft for pressing. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven, press out the cookies, and bake them for 5-8 minutes. Additionally, you can also freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months; just layer them between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and they’ll be just as delicious and festive as freshly baked!
Expert Tips for Buttery Spritz Cookies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming; this helps incorporate air for a light texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. A light touch is key for buttery spritz cookies.
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Chill if Necessary: If the dough feels too warm or soft, chill it in the refrigerator briefly. This helps maintain shape during pressing and baking.
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Test Bake: Always bake a single cookie first to check the timing and texture before committing to a full batch, ensuring perfect results.
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Store Properly: To keep cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container with wax paper between layers, preserving both their flavor and decoration.
Buttery Spritz Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best butter for my Buttery Spritz Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality unsalted butter that is at room temperature. This is crucial for achieving the right consistency and creaminess in your dough, ensuring your cookies turn out perfectly tender and rich.
Can I store leftover cookies, and how long will they last?
Yes, you can! Store your Buttery Spritz Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them fresh, place wax paper between layers to maintain the decorations. They’ll stay deliciously soft and flavorful!
Can I freeze Buttery Spritz Cookies? If so, how?
Very! For longer storage, you can freeze your baked cookies. Place them in airtight containers, layering with wax paper to prevent sticking, and they’ll remain good for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too soft to press?
Not to worry! If your dough feels too soft or sticky, refrigerate it for about 15-30 minutes to firm it up. This will help the dough hold its shape when pressed, ensuring beautifully structured cookies that bake evenly.
Is there an alternative for almond extract if someone is allergic?
Yes, absolutely! You can either omit almond extract entirely or substitute it with additional vanilla extract for a similar flavor profile. If you want a unique twist, try coconut or lemon extract, which will also add delightfully different notes to your Buttery Spritz Cookies!
How do I know when my cookies are properly baked?
The more the merrier! Bake your cookies for 5-8 minutes until they are set but still slightly soft in the center. The edges should turn lightly golden. If unsure, you can always test bake one cookie first to check the timing and texture before baking a full batch.
Buttery Spritz Cookies for Irresistible Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with silicone mats.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing on low speed until combined.
- Slowly add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
- If desired, divide dough and add gel food coloring, folding until evenly colored.
- Fill your cookie press with dough and press cookies onto the baking sheet.
- Bake for 5-8 minutes until edges are golden and centers remain tender.
- Cool on the sheets for 4-5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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