Old Fashioned Spritz Cookies

Spritz cookies are a classic treat that evokes nostalgia with every bite. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are made with a simple dough that is pressed through a cookie press to create beautifully intricate shapes, perfect for holidays or any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic and Timeless: A traditional recipe passed down through generations.
• Quick and Easy: Requires minimal ingredients and comes together in no time.
• Customizable: Shape and decorate them as you like with sprinkles, colored sugar, or food coloring.
• Perfect for Gifting: These cookies look as good as they taste, making them ideal for holiday gifts.
• Kid-Friendly: The cookie press and decorating process are fun for the whole family.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Almond extract (optional)
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Do not grease the baking sheets, as the dough needs a clean surface to adhere.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Load the dough into a cookie press fitted with your desired disk shape.
7. Press the cookies onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart.
8. Decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar if desired.
9. Bake for 6–8 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: About 5 dozen cookies (depending on size and shape)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–8 minutes per batch
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Flavorful Twists: Substitute almond extract with lemon, orange, or peppermint extract.
• Colored Dough: Add food coloring to the dough for festive cookies.
• Chocolate Dipped: After baking, dip one end of the cookie in melted chocolate and let it set.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: These cookies don’t require reheating, but you can warm them slightly in a low oven (200°F) to refresh their texture.

FAQs

1. Can I make these without a cookie press?

Yes, you can roll the dough into small balls and flatten them with a fork for a simple design.

2. Why aren’t my cookies sticking to the baking sheet?

Make sure your baking sheet is ungreased and at room temperature to help the dough adhere.

3. Can I make the dough in advance?

Absolutely! Store the dough in the fridge for up to 2 days. Let it soften slightly before pressing.

4. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but omit the additional salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

5. Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Ensure your butter is not overly softened, and chill the dough if needed.

6. How can I make the cookies crispier?

Bake them a minute or two longer, watching carefully to avoid overbrowning.

7. Can I add nuts or dried fruit?

It’s not recommended, as the dough needs to be smooth to press properly.

8. What’s the best way to clean a cookie press?

Disassemble the press and wash all parts in warm, soapy water. Dry thoroughly before storing.

9. Are these cookies suitable for decorating with royal icing?

Yes, but keep the icing light to preserve the delicate texture.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Certainly! This recipe scales well for larger batches.

Conclusion

Old-fashioned spritz cookies are a delightful addition to any cookie tray. Their buttery flavor, tender texture, and eye-catching shapes make them a favorite during the holiday season and beyond. With just a few simple ingredients and a touch of creativity, you can create a batch of cookies that will charm and satisfy every guest. Happy baking!

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