Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Buttery Spritz Cookies Made Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Ensures a rich, creamy texture; use at room temperature); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the cookies, creates a light and fluffy consistency); 1 Large Egg (Binds ingredients for a structured cookie); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Adds warm depth of flavor); 1 tsp Almond Extract (Elevates buttery taste with nutty notes); 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Foundation for volume and structure); 1/2 tsp Salt (Enhances sweetness and balances flavors); Red and Green Gel Icing Color (Adds vibrant hues to the dough); Sprinkles (Adds fun and celebratory touch)

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As I opened my pantry and caught a whiff of rich, buttery goodness, I found myself transported back to my childhood kitchen, where holiday baking was a cherished ritual. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Festive Buttery Spritz Cookies, an easy and delightful treat that’s sure to spark joy in your home. With no chilling required, these cookies come together quickly, allowing you to whip up a batch (or several) for holiday gatherings without the stress. The melt-in-your-mouth texture and tempting hints of almond and vanilla make each bite a comforting reminder of family traditions, while their customizable shapes and colors turn them into a festive centerpiece. Will you choose sprinkles or perhaps a splash of vibrant gel color to make your creations uniquely yours? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Melt-in-your-mouth goodness: These buttery spritz cookies boast a texture that’s light and tender, ensuring each bite disappears deliciously.
Quick and easy: With no chilling required, you’ll have a delightful batch ready in no time, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Versatile decorating options: Customize your cookies with vibrant colors and fun sprinkles to match any celebration theme.
Crowd-pleasing treat: Their rich flavors of almond and vanilla make them universally loved, perfect for parties or as gifts in cute decorative tins.
Bonus variations: Try swapping the almond extract for vanilla or sandwiched fillings like chocolate, offering a new twist to surprise your family!

Buttery Spritz Cookies Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful holiday treats!

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted Butter (1 cup, 224g) – Ensures a rich, creamy texture; remember to use it at room temperature for easy blending.
Granulated Sugar (3/4 cup, 155g) – Sweetens the cookies while creating a light and fluffy consistency when creamed with butter.
Large Egg (1) – Binds the ingredients for a perfectly structured cookie.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds a warm depth of flavor that complements the buttery base.
Almond Extract (1 tsp) – Elevates the buttery taste with delightful nutty notes, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups, 293g) – The foundation for volume and structure, ensuring your cookies hold their beautiful shapes.
Salt (1/2 tsp) – A pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.

For Decorating (Optional)

Red and Green Gel Icing Color – Give your dough a festive twist; just a drop will add vibrant hues without thinning it out.
Sprinkles – Use these to add an extra layer of fun; they’re perfect for adorning your cookies and making them celebratory!

Enjoy crafting your very own buttery spritz cookies that are not just treats but heartfelt creations for your loved ones!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buttery Spritz Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). As the oven warms up, line your baking sheets with silicone mats, which will prevent sticking and help your buttery spritz cookies hold their shape during baking. This step is crucial for ensuring that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that delightful golden edge.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream the mixture on medium speed for 3 to 4 minutes, until it appears light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when the color lightens and the texture becomes smooth. This step incorporates air, making your cookies melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Extracts
Add in one large egg along with the vanilla and almond extracts to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. This step infuses the dough with rich flavors that will enhance your buttery spritz cookies, creating that satisfying taste everyone loves.

Step 4: Add Flour and Salt
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough should come together without being sticky. This is the moment where the structure of your cookies forms, so keep an eye on the texture—smooth but still fluffy is the goal for these delightfully tender cookies.

Step 5: Color Your Dough (Optional)
If desired, divide your dough into smaller portions and add red and green gel icing color to create festive hues. Mix gently until the color is evenly distributed, ensuring not to overwork the dough. This step allows you to customize your buttery spritz cookies with cheerful colors for any holiday gathering or celebration.

Step 6: Fill the Cookie Press
Spoon the prepared cookie dough into your cookie press. Press the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, creating various shapes while keeping them close enough together to minimize spreading. Aim for uniform sizes, as this will help them bake evenly. The excitement builds as your festive buttery spritz cookies take shape on the baking sheet!

Step 7: Add Sprinkles for Fun
Before baking, feel free to sprinkle the pressed cookies with colorful sprinkles if you’d like. This optional step not only adds a lovely visual appeal but also a delightful crunch to your buttery spritz cookies. It’s your chance to get creative, ensuring each cookie is uniquely festive and ready for cheerful gatherings.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 5 to 8 minutes, depending on your preference for softness—5 minutes for softer cookies, or up to 8 minutes for a slightly crispier texture. Keep an eye on the edges; they should turn lightly golden, indicating that your buttery spritz cookies are done!

Step 9: Cooling Time
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 4 to 5 minutes. This resting period ensures they firm up slightly and make for easier handling. Afterward, transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. This crucial step lets the cookies settle into their melt-in-your-mouth texture before they’re ready to serve or enjoy.

How to Store and Freeze Buttery Spritz Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh and delicious.

Fridge: If you prefer, refrigerate the cookies in a sealed container for up to 10 days. Just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezer: Freeze your buttery spritz cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Dough Storage: Keep any unused dough in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bring it back to room temperature before using it to shape fresh cookies at your convenience.

Buttery Spritz Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Customize your buttery spritz cookies to match your personal taste and festive spirit with these fun swaps and additions!

Flavor Twist: Substitute almond extract with vanilla for a more classic cookie flavor.
Choco Delight: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet surprise with every bite.
Jam-Filled: Sandwich two cookies together with your favorite jam or chocolate spread for a delightful treat.
Zesty Touch: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus twist.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor. This adds a wonderful crunch that elevates your cookies to the next level.
Cocoa Magic: Mix in unsweetened cocoa powder to create a chocolate version of these festive cookies.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring warmth and spice, making your cookies perfect for the holidays.
Decorative Variations: Use colored sugar or edible glitter instead of sprinkles for a dazzling, eye-catching finish that will impress your guests.

For even more baking ideas, don’t miss these tempting Chocolate Chip Cookies that can easily elevate your holiday treat lineup!

Make Ahead Options

These Buttery Spritz Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by refrigerating it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. Make sure to bring the dough back to room temperature before pressing it into shapes to maintain their delightfully tender texture. You can also bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months; just thaw them overnight at room temperature before serving. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll find that whipping up a festive batch of Buttery Spritz Cookies is easier than ever, making your holiday preparations a breeze!

What to Serve with Festive Buttery Spritz Cookies

As you delight in the sweetness of these festive buttery spritz cookies, pair them with complementary flavors and textures to create a memorable holiday spread.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich creaminess balances the buttery cookies, making each bite an indulgent treat. Imagine cozying up with a warm mug while savoring your cookies—pure bliss!
Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful mix of berries and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. This burst of freshness keeps the palate excited and complements the vanilla and almond flavors beautifully.
Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. The chill of the ice cream pairs wonderfully with the melt-in-your-mouth texture of the cookies, creating a luxurious experience.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the comforting flavors of the cookies. Not only do spices bring warmth, but they also create an inviting, aromatic atmosphere for your holiday gatherings.
Nutty Biscotti: For a delightful texture contrast, serve these cookies with almond or hazelnut biscotti. The crunchy biscotti pairs beautifully with the tender spritz cookies, inviting guests to enjoy a delightful textural adventure.
Gingerbread Latte: The holiday spices in a gingerbread latte beautifully complement the buttery sweetness of the cookies. This festive beverage adds warmth and festive cheer to the table.
Snickerdoodle Cookie Sandwiches: For an extra special treat, make cookie sandwiches by adding cinnamon frosting between two spritz cookies. The combination of flavors and textures will impress everyone at your holiday table.
Sparkling Cider: A glass of sparkling cider adds a festive touch to your cookie presentation. The effervescence and sweetness of the cider pair perfectly with the buttery notes of these delightful cookies.
Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Elevate your cookie enjoyment by serving chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas. The richness of the chocolate complements the cookies, while the fruit adds a light, refreshing touch.
Molasses Cookies: Pairing these buttery delights with soft, spiced molasses cookies introduces another holiday favorite with a different flavor profile, making your dessert spread versatile and inviting.

Expert Tips for Buttery Spritz Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture. Cold butter won’t cream properly, leaving you with dense cookies.

Watch the Dough: Keep your dough cool while working to maintain the cookie shapes during baking. Warm dough can lead to spreading, resulting in uneven cookies.

Skip the Grease: Avoid greasing the baking sheets, as this can cause cookies to stick. Silicone mats or parchment paper are perfect for a perfect bake!

Proper Mixing: Mix the dough until just combined to prevent tough cookies. Overmixing develops gluten, which you want to avoid for these tender buttery spritz cookies.

Cooling Period: Allow cookies to cool briefly on the baking sheet before moving them to a wire rack. This step prevents breakage and helps them firm up just right.

Buttery Spritz Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for baking?
Absolutely! The key lies in ensuring your unsalted butter is at room temperature, as this allows for better creaming with sugar and a fluffier cookie. For eggs, fresh is best—look for ones that are not past their expiration date. If you’re decorating with gel colors or sprinkles, make sure they’re fresh and vibrant to add that festive touch!

How should I store my baked buttery spritz cookies?
The more the merrier! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer them a bit firmer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 10 days. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience!

Can I freeze buttery spritz cookies and how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these delightful cookies! Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by layers of parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about an hour before serving.

What common mistakes should I avoid when making these cookies?
Very! One common mistake to avoid is using cold butter; it won’t cream properly and will lead to denser cookies. Also, overmixing the dough can develop gluten, which can toughen your cookies. Mix just until combined, and remember to keep your dough cool to maintain its shape during baking. If you encounter sticking issues on the baking sheet, a quick chill of the baking sheet can work wonders!

Are there any dietary considerations with buttery spritz cookies?
Definitely! These cookies are vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re baking for someone with allergies, be cautious about the almond extract; consider substituting it with more vanilla if needed. When using decorations like sprinkles, check the labels for potential allergens or gluten. It’s always best to ask about dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy these festive treats!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, let it return to room temperature before shaping your cookies. This way, fresh batches of buttery spritz cookies can be at your fingertips whenever you need them!