As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the anticipation that fills the air—especially when it comes to baking! The moment I pressed down on my spritz cookie press, the delightful rhythm of festive shapes forming on the baking sheet brought a smile to my face. These Christmas Spritz Cookies, with their soft, buttery texture, are not just a treat for the taste buds but also an invitation to gather loved ones in the kitchen.
Imagine the sweet aroma of vanilla wafting through your home, complemented by the sight of colorful sprinkles adding a playful touch to each delicate cookie. This recipe is simple enough for the kids to join in, making it the perfect way to create cherished holiday memories. Plus, they bake up quickly, allowing you to whip up batch after batch to share with friends and family.
Get ready to indulge in the magic of these festive gems that melt in your mouth and are bound to be the highlight of any holiday gathering!
Why Are Christmas Spritz Cookies So Special?
Irresistible Flavors: These cookies boast a buttery richness that is sure to delight every palate.
Family Fun: Their easy-to-make nature invites the whole family to get involved in the baking process, creating memories that last.
Festive Shapes: Use a spritz cookie press to make a variety of charming shapes that add to your holiday cheer.
Quick Baking: With just 10-15 minutes in the oven, you’ll have warm, fresh cookies ready to enjoy in no time.
Versatile Treats: These cookies can be easily customized with different extracts or decorations, making each batch unique, offering endless possibilities for flavor!
Christmas Spritz Cookies Ingredients
• For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and fat for tenderness; can substitute with salted butter, but reduce added salt.
- Margarine – Contributes to a soft texture; replace with additional unsalted butter if desired.
- Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and aids in browning; use white sugar for the best results in these Christmas Spritz Cookies.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder and moisture source; for a vegan option, use flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flax + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the most delightful taste.
• For Structure
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; add if using unsalted butter to ensure taste is just right.
- All-purpose Flour – Provides the structure and base; can use a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.
- Baking Powder – Ensures cookies are light and fluffy; always check for freshness to guarantee proper leavening.
• For Decorating
- Gel Food Coloring (optional) – Perfect for vibrant decorations; use sparingly to avoid overwhelming the cookie’s classic appeal.
- Sprinkles/Sanding Sugar (optional) – Add a festive touch and crunch; sprinkle on top before baking for a colorful finish.
How to Make Christmas Spritz Cookies
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Beat Butter: In an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and margarine until fluffy and light in color, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Add Sugar: Gradually mix in the white sugar, adding it in increments of 1/2 cup, while incorporating the eggs one at a time. Continue mixing until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
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Incorporate Vanilla: Stir in the pure vanilla extract gently until evenly distributed. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, hinting at the delicious treat on its way!
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined to prevent overmixing.
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Chill Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and help the cookies hold their shape.
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Prepare Cookie Sheets: While the dough is chilling, place your baking sheets in the refrigerator as well. Chilled sheets help the cookies stick less during baking!
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Load the Press: Once the dough is chilled, load your spritz cookie press according to its instructions. Press the dough onto ungreased cookie sheets in various fun shapes, leaving some space between each cookie.
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Sprinkle Topping: If desired, add colorful sprinkles or sanding sugar on top of the unbaked cookies for that festive touch before they head into the oven.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary!
Optional: Try adding a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra delightful finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Christmas Spritz Cookies?
Baking these delightful cookies is only half the fun—let’s elevate your holiday experience with some perfect pairings!
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Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy warmth of hot cocoa complements the buttery texture of the cookies, bringing cozy vibes to your dessert table.
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Coffee or Espresso: A bold cup of coffee balances the sweetness and enhances the buttery flavors of your spritz cookies, creating a harmonious indulgence.
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Milk: Classic and timeless, a cold glass of milk makes every bite feel like childhood again, perfect for dunking your festive treats.
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Fruit Tart: A vibrant fruit tart adds a fresh contrast to the buttery cookies, with juicy flavors that cleanse the palate between sweet bites.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The aromatic spices in warm apple cider create a festive atmosphere. Sip it slowly while munching on the cookies for a comforting experience.
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Decorative Platter: Arrange your spritz cookies alongside other holiday cookies, like gingerbread and sugar cookies, to create a beautiful display that celebrates the spirit of the season.
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Cheese Plate: Soft cheeses, like brie, paired with sweet cookies provide an unexpected yet delightful savory-sweet contrast that’s sure to impress guests.
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Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue for a fun interactive dessert where everyone can dip their spritz cookies into luscious melted chocolate!
Layer your festive gathering with these pairings, and let the joyous flavors of the season shine through each bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Spritz Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep during the holiday hustle! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If you want to get a head start even earlier, you can freeze the unbaked cookies by arranging them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring to an airtight container for up to three months. When it’s time to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Following these simple steps will ensure you have homemade treats at your fingertips, ready to delight your family at a moment’s notice!
Storage Tips for Christmas Spritz Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your freshly baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful softness.
Fridge: If you live in a warmer climate, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Use a sealed container to prevent them from absorbing unwanted odors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Lay parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Cookie Dough: Freeze any unused dough for up to 1 month. Shape it into logs, wrap tightly, and when ready, slice and bake directly from the freezer for fresh Christmas Spritz Cookies anytime!
Expert Tips for Christmas Spritz Cookies
• Chill for Success: Chilling the dough and baking sheets is essential; it helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and prevents sticking.
• Perfect Consistency: If your dough is too soft, chill it again. If it’s too stiff to press easily, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Using a spritz cookie press can take some practice. Don’t get discouraged if your first batch isn’t perfect; keep trying!
• Customize with Flavor: Feel free to play around with different extracts like almond or lemon for a unique twist on your Christmas Spritz Cookies.
• Storage Secrets: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container with a saltine cracker; this helps absorb moisture!
Christmas Spritz Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize these delightful cookies and make them your own with these fun ideas!
- Flavor Boost: Add almond or lemon extract for a unique twist that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Nutty Texture: Replace a portion of all-purpose flour with almond flour for added nuttiness and depth.
- Chocolaty Delight: Incorporate cocoa powder into the dough for a rich chocolate version that will satisfy any sweet tooth!
- Fruity Fun: Fold in mini chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries for bursts of flavor in every bite.
- Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend to enjoy the same deliciousness without gluten.
- Vegan Swap: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flax + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a plant-based option.
- Delightful Drizzle: Top your cooled cookies with a drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate for added sweetness.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Christmas Spritz Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if ingredients like butter or eggs are at the right ripeness or selection?
Absolutely! When using unsalted butter, ensure it’s soft but not melted—it should press easily but retain its shape. For eggs, room temperature is best as it helps create a lighter texture in your cookies. Just take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking. Freshness is key, so always check the expiration date on your eggs and use butter that shows no signs of off-odors or discoloration.
How should I store my Christmas Spritz Cookies, and for how long will they stay fresh?
To keep your Christmas Spritz Cookies soft and tasty, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can last for up to one week. If you live in a warmer climate, it’s best to keep them in the fridge, where they’ll be good for two weeks without losing flavor or texture. Just remember to prevent them from absorbing odors by sealing the container tightly!
Can I freeze Christmas Spritz Cookies, and if so, how?
Definitely! You can freeze your baked cookies for up to three months. Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you want to freeze the dough, shape it into logs, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, and then store in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just slice and bake directly from the freezer—it’s super convenient!
What should I do if my spritz cookie dough is too soft or too firm?
Very good question! If your dough feels too soft, don’t worry! Just pop it back in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to firm it up. This will make it easier to handle. On the flip side, if your dough is too stiff and difficult to push through the spritz press, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes until it softens up a bit. Finding that perfect consistency is key to gorgeous cookies!
Are Christmas Spritz Cookies safe for pets or anyone with specific allergies?
While Christmas Spritz Cookies are a delightful treat for humans, they shouldn’t be shared with pets due to their sugar and butter content. For allergy considerations, be mindful of any egg or dairy allergies among your guests. You can opt for vegan alternatives as mentioned in the recipe—using flaxseed meal for eggs is a fantastic start, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this festive treat!
Best Buttery German Christmas Spritz Cookies You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and margarine until fluffy and light in color, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually mix in the white sugar, adding it in increments of 1/2 cup, while incorporating the eggs one at a time.
- Stir in the pure vanilla extract gently until evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
- Place your baking sheets in the refrigerator to help the cookies stick less during baking.
- Load your spritz cookie press and press the dough onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- If desired, add colorful sprinkles or sanding sugar on top before baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.