Spritz cookies are those delightful little buttery treats that melt in your mouth and look almost too pretty to eat. They’re known for their crisp edges and soft centers, usually shaped into charming designs like stars, wreaths, or flowers thanks to a cookie press. These cookies are lightly sweet and have a wonderful buttery flavor, making them a perfect classic cookie for any occasion.
I love making spritz cookies because the process feels a bit like creating edible art, especially when you add little sprinkles or colored sugar on top. It’s a fun cookie to make around the holidays or whenever you want something simple but special. Plus, the dough is silky smooth which makes everything come together easily and quickly. My favorite part is watching them bake until they turn just golden at the edges.
One handy tip I have is to chill the dough a bit before pressing it out; it helps the cookies keep their shape better while baking. Spritz cookies are wonderful served with a cup of tea or hot cocoa, and they also make a sweet gift when packed in a pretty tin. Whenever I bring them to a gathering, they’re always the first to disappear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. Always soften it to room temperature for the best cookie texture. If dairy is an issue, try coconut oil, but the flavor and texture will change.
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives spritz cookies their slight crunch and sweetness. You can swap with a fine coconut sugar if you want a deeper flavor, though the color will darken a bit.
Flour: All-purpose flour creates the classic crisp outer texture and tender inside. For gluten-free versions, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free blend, but dough might be more delicate when pressing.
Egg: Helps bind the dough and create richness. If avoiding eggs, use a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) as a substitute but press gently as dough will be softer.
Food Coloring & Sugar Coating: Gel food coloring works best for vivid hues without thinning dough. Colored sanding sugar adds sparkle and a bit of texture—feel free to skip or swap with sprinkles, but keep textures in mind.
How Do You Get Perfect Shapes When Using a Cookie Press?
Using a cookie press can be tricky if you don’t get the dough texture just right. Here’s how to nail it every time:
- Make sure your dough is soft enough to press but not sticky. If too stiff, the cookies won’t form well. Chill briefly if it’s too soft.
- Fill the cookie press without overfilling, and keep a steady pressure as you press cookies onto the sheet.
- Work on a cool baking sheet to help cookies keep their shape better.
- Hold the press perpendicular to the sheet, push down firmly, then lift straight up to avoid distorting the shape.
- If the dough sticks to the press, wipe it with a wet towel between uses or chill the dough.
With a bit of practice and these tips, your spritz cookies will come out perfectly shaped and beautiful every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cookie press – it shapes the dough into those classic spritz cookie designs quickly and easily.
- Baking sheets – flat, sturdy sheets help cookies bake evenly without spreading too much.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – prevent cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need a large one to cream butter and sugar and combine ingredients smoothly.
- Electric mixer or hand mixer – makes creaming the butter and sugar easier and ensures a smooth dough.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty, fragrant twist that pairs perfectly with buttery cookies.
- Mix in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
- Use cocoa powder in part of the flour to create chocolate spritz cookies; it adds a rich taste and pretty color.
- Top cookies with colored sanding sugar, sprinkles, or small sugar pearls before baking for festive flair.
How to Make Spritz Cookies?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Food coloring (red, green, or any colors you like)
- Colored sugar or coarse sanding sugar (optional, for coating)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 8-10 minutes for baking. You’ll want a little extra time for cooling and dividing the dough if you add different colors, so plan for about 30 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Getting Ready:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies don’t stick and you can clean up easily.
2. Making the Dough:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until it’s soft and fluffy. Then, add in the egg and vanilla extract and mix well.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to your wet ingredients, mixing gently until you have a nice smooth dough.
3. Adding Color and Shaping the Cookies:
If you want colorful cookies, divide the dough into smaller portions. Add a few drops of food coloring to each and knead gently to spread the color evenly.
Load your cookie press with dough and press shapes onto the lined baking sheets, leaving about an inch between cookies. If you like, brush the tops lightly with water and sprinkle colored sugar for a pretty sparkle.
4. Baking and Cooling:
Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your crispy, buttery spritz cookies — perfect for sharing or snacking anytime!
Can I Use Frozen Butter for Spritz Cookies?
It’s best to use softened, room-temperature butter for spritz cookies to get the right dough consistency. If your butter is frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day before and keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge. Before pressing cookies, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes to soften slightly for easier shaping.
How Should I Store Spritz Cookies?
Store your baked spritz cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, freezing the baked cookies in a sealed container works well — just thaw before serving.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have a Cookie Press?
If you don’t have a cookie press, you can roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand. The cookie shape will be simpler but still delicious!
