As the holiday season approaches, I find myself drawn into the comforting whirl of festive baking. The first time I popped these Christmas Spritz Cookies out of my cookie press, it was like unwrapping joy itself; their delightful shapes and festive colors brilliantly danced on the baking sheet. Each bite is a sweet explosion of buttery goodness, enhanced by the warm notes of vanilla and almond, instantly making them a crowd favorite at gatherings.
What I love most about these cookies is how effortlessly they elevate any holiday spread. Seriously, they’re not just treats; they’re conversation starters, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Plus, with minimal prep time and a recipe that allows for those creative personal touches—think vibrant sprinkles or a drizzle of icing—it’s impossible to resist the urge to whip up a batch (or two!) each year. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your cookie press, and let’s make some magical Christmas memories together with these irresistible Spritz Cookies!
Why are Christmas Spritz Cookies a Must-Make?
Simplicity at its best: These cookies come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy holiday baking sessions.
Charming presentation: The unique shapes and colors make them visually appealing, turning your dessert table into a festive display.
Flavorful blend: Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth goodness paired with hints of vanilla and almond create a flavor that’s simply unforgettable.
Perfect for everyone: Great for sharing at holiday parties or gifting, these cookies spread joy wherever they go.
Customizable fun: Add your favorite sprinkles or icing to personalize every batch! For more festive ideas, check out our post on holiday baking essentials.
Christmas Spritz Cookies Ingredients
• Whip up these delightful treats!
- 2 cups flour – all-purpose works best for a light texture
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
- ¾ cup butter (1 ½ sticks, softened) – use unsalted for better flavor control
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – the base sweetness for these Christmas Spritz Cookies
- 1 egg – binds the ingredients together
- 1 teaspoon vanilla – enhances the buttery taste
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract – adds a delightful nutty note
- Food color and sprinkles (optional) – for a festive touch
- Icing (either homemade or store-bought) (optional) – to elevate your cookies beautifully
How to Make Christmas Spritz Cookies
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out delectably golden.
-
Cream together the butter and sugar using a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes for the perfect airy texture.
-
Add in the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated. These flavors will bring warmth to your cookies.
-
Whisk the flour and salt together in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, and mix until the dough comes together beautifully.
-
(Optional) Separate the dough into small bowls if you’re adding food coloring. Stir in a few drops of color until evenly distributed to create a fun, festive look.
-
Fill your cookie press with the dough and attach the desired disk. Hold it perpendicular to the baking sheet and press, leaving about an inch between cookies. You can sprinkle them before baking for extra flair!
-
Bake for 7-9 minutes, until they’re just barely golden. Let them cool on a rack for 5 minutes—this helps them firm up for better handling.
-
(Optional) Decorate with icing and sprinkles after your cookies have cooled completely. This adds a lovely finishing touch and a pop of color!
Optional: For added fun, experiment with different colored sprinkles.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Spritz Cookies Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own magic into these delightful cookies with these fun ideas!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously accommodating treat.
- Vegan: Replace the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water). These cookies will still be yummy and guilt-free!
- Nutty Twist: Incorporate finely chopped nuts or pecans into the dough for added crunch and flavor. Think of how these would be exquisitely paired with a warm cup of cocoa!
- Spicy Touch: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough to warmly spice things up—it’s like a cozy hug during the holiday season.
- Chocolate Delight: Mix in chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies for a decadent twist. The combination of chocolate and almond is a match made in heaven!
- Fruity Flavor: Fold in dried cranberries or orange zest for a burst of refreshing flavors that will brighten your festivities. Just imagine the bright colors contrasting your holiday treats!
- Minty Fresh: Swap in peppermint extract for a festive candy cane version. These will pack a delightful minty punch that’s perfect for the holiday!
- Extra Icing: Try adding cream cheese frosting instead of standard icing for a rich and tangy flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What to Serve with Christmas Spritz Cookies?
These delightful treats not only deliver cheerful flavors but also pair beautifully with a host of festive favorites.
-
Hot Chocolate: A cozy mug of rich hot chocolate complements the buttery sweetness of the cookies for the perfect holiday treat.
-
Eggnog: Creamy and indulgent, eggnog brings a festive cheer that matches the holiday vibes of your spritz cookies beautifully.
-
Coffee: The robust flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of the cookies, providing a delightful contrast that warms the soul.
-
Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh fruits adds a refreshing element and complements the rich butteriness of your cookies.
-
Cheese Board: Curated cheese alongside your Christmas Spritz Cookies creates a delightful mix of savory and sweet—consider mild cheeses that won’t overpower the flavors.
-
Baking Spices: Think cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger—sprinkle them around your dessert table to enhance the festive atmosphere and tantalize senses.
-
Gingerbread Cookies: For a nostalgic touch, serve your spritz cookies alongside gingerbread cookies, inviting a delightful taste comparison.
-
Festive Punch: A sparkling fruit punch can add a touch of merriment and refreshment, making it a perfect drink to pair with sweet treats.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a comforting and luscious contrast to the crispy texture of the cookies.
-
Nutty Medley: A mix of roasted nuts adds crunch, making for a satisfying snack that beautifully complements the tender textures of Christmas Spritz Cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Spritz Cookies
-
Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and maintains their delightful texture.
-
Fridge: For longer-lasting freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 10 days. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
-
Freezer: To freeze, layer cookies between parchment paper in an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months without losing their festive charm!
-
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the Christmas Spritz Cookies, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, and they’re ready to bring joy to your gatherings again!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Spritz Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to savor the joy of baking without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to extend that timeframe, the dough can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the dough thaw in the fridge overnight before using your cookie press to shape and bake the cookies. This makes your holiday baking smooth and stress-free, resulting in delightful treats just as delicious as if they were made fresh on the spot!
Expert Tips for Christmas Spritz Cookies
-
Use Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming. Cold butter will result in a dense texture for your Christmas Spritz Cookies.
-
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; you want them light and tender!
-
Space Wisely: Leave enough space between each cookie when pressing onto the baking sheet. They expand slightly, so give them room to shine!
-
Experiment with Colors: Have fun with food coloring! Splitting the dough allows for a variety of festive shades, adding a personal touch to your Christmas Spritz Cookies.
-
Cool Before Icing: If decorating with icing, let the cookies cool completely first. This will prevent the icing from melting and helps it set beautifully.
-
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be set but not overly golden; a light touch should show a slight bounce back!
Christmas Spritz Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for Christmas Spritz Cookies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best results! It provides a lovely light texture that’s perfect for these delightful cookies, ensuring they remain tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
How should I store Christmas Spritz Cookies to keep them fresh?
Absolutely! Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh for longer, a refrigerator can extend their life to about 10 days. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving!
Can I freeze Christmas Spritz Cookies? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze, layer your cookies between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure to label it with the date! They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky to press?
If your dough feels a bit sticky, don’t worry! This can happen if your butter was too warm. Try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm it up. You can also sprinkle a little flour on your hands and the cookie press to help it slide without sticking.
Are there any dietary considerations for Christmas Spritz Cookies?
Definitely! If you’re making these cookies for a gathering, be sure to check for common allergens. You can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for those with wheat allergies. For a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based butter. Always keep any dietary restrictions in mind when preparing your delightful treats!
How can I make Christmas Spritz Cookies without a cookie press?
No worries if you don’t have a cookie press on hand! Simply roll out your dough into a flat sheet about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out fun shapes. Place them on your baking sheet with space in between. They may lose some of the traditional shapes, but the taste will still remain wonderfully festive!
Deliciously Festive Christmas Spritz Cookies You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Cream together the butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add in the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Whisk the flour and salt together, then gradually combine with the wet ingredients.
- Separate dough if adding food coloring, then stir until evenly distributed.
- Fill your cookie press with the dough and press onto the baking sheet.
- Bake for 7-9 minutes until barely golden, then cool for 5 minutes on a rack.
- Decorate with icing and sprinkles after cooling if desired.
Leave a Comment