There is nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Christmas cookies wafting through the house, and these delightful Christmas Spritz Cookies are a true festive treat. With their buttery texture and colorful sprinkles, they capture the joy of the holiday season in every bite. Quick to make and absolutely scrumptious, these cookies are a must-have for every Christmas celebration, ensuring you have a deliciously sweet holiday.
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Every December, my family gathers around the kitchen island for our annual cookie-baking day, and these spritz cookies are always the stars of the show. Passed down from my grandmother, this recipe embodies the warmth of Christmases past. The festive shapes, the neon colors of the sprinkles, and most importantly, the memories made while baking, continue to bring us joy every year.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in a flash, perfect for sudden cravings or last-minute gatherings.
- Festive Appearance: Their vibrant colors and unique shapes add a decorative touch to any holiday table.
- Family-friendly: Simple enough for little helpers, making it a fun holiday activity.
- Customizable: You can easily alter flavors or colors to match other festivities throughout the year.
Ingredients Notes
To make the most flavorful spritz cookies, use high-quality unsalted butter. If you prefer, you can substitute vanilla with almond extract for a nuttier flavor. Colored sprinkles add a festive touch, but you can customize with your choice of toppings.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This ensures your cookies have the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 2
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. This creates a light batter that captures all the aromas.
Step 3
Gradually add the flour and mix until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 4
Fill your cookie press with dough and press onto ungreased baking sheets. If you don’t have a press, a piping bag with a large star tip can also work.
Step 5
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 7-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on a wire rack before storage.
Storage Options
Store your spritz cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer and transfer them to a ziplock bag. Reheat using a microwave at low power for a freshly baked taste.
Variations & Substitutions
For those following a gluten-free diet, substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. Add a dash of peppermint extract and crushed candy canes for a minty twist. If you’re a chocolate lover, drizzle some melted chocolate over the tops.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for holiday parties or as a thoughtful gift in decorated tins. Serve them with a warm glass of eggnog or Hot Cocoa for a cozy winter evening treat. They also make excellent additions to a Christmas dessert platter.
frequently asked questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely, you can prepare the dough up to two days in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature before pressing and baking.
What if I don’t have a cookie press? If you don’t own a cookie press, you can use a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Alternatively, roll out the dough and use festive cookie cutters to shape your cookies.
How can I ensure my cookies retain their shape? Chilling the dough for 15 minutes before pressing can help maintain the shape during baking. Also, avoid placing the dough on warm baking sheets as this can cause them to spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Christmas Spritz Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 egg large egg room temperature
- 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, and egg, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Fill a cookies press with the dough and form cookies on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 7-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on wire racks before serving.
