Spritz cookies are those classic buttery treats you’ll often find around the holidays, but honestly, they’re perfect any time of year. They’re light, crisp, and come in all sorts of fun shapes—thanks to the cookie press—that make each bite feel special. With a hint of vanilla or almond, these little cookies are simple but packed with flavor.
I love making spritz cookies because the cookie press turns cookie time into a fun activity. It’s almost like a little game to see what shapes you can create. Plus, the dough is easy to work with, so you don’t have to be a baking pro to get beautiful, tasty cookies. Sometimes I add a few colored sugar sprinkles on top just to brighten them up and make them extra festive.
These cookies go great with a cup of coffee or tea, and they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends. I often pack them up in pretty tins as gifts, and people always smile when they get them. It really feels like a little sweet surprise that shows how much you care without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is best here for controlling the salt level. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature so it creams easily with sugar. For a dairy-free option, try vegan butter sticks.
Sugar: Granulated sugar provides the perfect sweetness and crisp texture. You can swap half for superfine sugar if you want a finer crumb.
Egg: The egg binds the dough and adds richness. If you need an egg substitute, use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) but the dough might be a bit softer.
Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds warmth to the flavor. Almond extract is a nice alternative for a classic nutty twist.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives structure to the cookie. Make sure to measure it correctly by spooning and leveling to avoid dry dough.
Food Coloring & Sprinkles: These add fun color and sparkle. Use gel colors for vivid hues without changing dough texture.
How Can I Get Perfect Cookie Shapes with a Cookie Press?
Using a cookie press can be tricky at first, but with a few tips, your spritz cookies will look fantastic.
- Chill the dough lightly: If the dough gets too soft, it may not press out nicely. If needed, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up.
- Fill the press properly: Don’t overfill or pack the dough too tightly. Fill it gently so the dough flows smoothly but holds its shape.
- Press on a cool baking sheet: A warm sheet can soften the dough too much, warping your shapes. Using a cool tray helps cookies keep their design.
- Keep steady pressure: Press down evenly and release as you lift straight up to avoid breaking the cookie shape.
- Space evenly: Leave about 1 inch between cookies so they bake without touching.
Following these steps makes it easier to get those pretty ridges and detailed forms. If your dough is sticky, a quick chill or adjusting flour quantities can help. Practice makes perfect, and each tray will get a little better!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cookie press – this is the star tool for making those perfect, detailed spritz cookie shapes easily.
- Mixing bowls – a large one for creaming butter and sugar, and smaller ones if you want to color dough separately.
- Electric mixer or hand mixer – helps cream butter and sugar to a smooth, fluffy texture quickly.
- Baking sheets – use flat, rimmed sheets for even baking and easy cookie transfer.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup simple.
- Cooling rack – lets cookies cool evenly without getting soggy underneath.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Almond extract instead of vanilla – gives a classic, nutty twist that pairs wonderfully with the buttery dough.
- Add finely chopped lemon or orange zest – adds bright, fresh notes perfect for spring or summer cookies.
- Mix in mini chocolate chips – for little bursts of chocolate that surprise with each bite.
- Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg with sugar on top before baking – adds warmth and cozy spice for autumn or holidays.
Spritz Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Coloring and Decoration (optional):
- Food coloring (red, green, blue, or colors of choice)
- Colored sanding sugar or sprinkles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 8-10 minutes to bake each batch. Cooling time adds another 10-15 minutes. Overall, you can expect around 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, not including any time spent decorating or coloring the dough.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to keep cookies from sticking and allow for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, roughly 3-4 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat well. Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt until the dough forms a soft, slightly sticky ball that holds its shape.
3. Add Color (Optional):
If you want colorful cookies, divide the dough into separate bowls. Add a few drops of food coloring to each and mix well until the color is evenly distributed.
4. Shape the Cookies:
Attach your chosen decorative disc to the cookie press and fill it with dough of your desired color. Press the cookies evenly onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each to allow for slight spreading.
5. Add Sparkle (Optional):
Sprinkle colored sanding sugar or sprinkles on top of the cookies for an extra festive touch.
6. Bake:
Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn a light golden color. Avoid baking too long to keep cookies tender and not dried out.
7. Cool:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Repeat:
Continue pressing, decorating, baking, and cooling with each batch of dough until all cookies are done.
9. Store:
Keep your spritz cookies fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later.
Enjoy your beautiful, buttery spritz cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee—or share them to brighten someone’s day!
Can I Use Frozen Butter for Spritz Cookies?
It’s best to use butter softened to room temperature so it creams easily with sugar. If your butter is frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight or leave it out for about an hour until soft but not melted.
Can I Make Spritz Cookie Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 days. When ready, let it warm slightly before filling the cookie press for easier pressing.
How Should I Store Leftover Spritz Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them crisp, avoid moisture and heat. They also freeze well—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have a Cookie Press?
You can pipe the dough using a piping bag fitted with a large star tip to create similar shapes. Alternatively, scoop small spoonfuls and flatten slightly for a simpler drop cookie version.
