Classic Butter Spritz Cookies: A Timeless Holiday Favorite
Classic Butter Spritz Cookies hold a special place in kitchens around the world, especially during the holiday season. The aroma of rich butter, sugar, and vanilla drifting through the house instantly brings back memories of festive gatherings, cozy winter evenings, and family traditions passed down through generations. These delicate cookies are known for their tender texture, subtle sweetness, and beautiful shapes, often created using a cookie press.
Loved for both their simplicity and elegance, butter spritz cookies prove that a handful of pantry staples can transform into something truly magical. Whether served alongside a warm cup of tea or displayed on a holiday cookie platter, these cookies never fail to impress. Their versatility also makes them a favorite for bakers who enjoy adding personal twists through flavors, colors, and decorations.
Ingredients Needed
The charm of classic butter spritz cookies lies in their simplicity. High-quality ingredients make a noticeable difference, especially since butter is the star of the recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1 cup | 1,630 calories |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | 580 calories |
| Large egg | 1 | 70 calories |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 calories |
| All-purpose flour | 2¼ cups | 1,020 calories |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | 0 calories |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or leave them ungreased for best cookie adhesion.
- Cream the butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until the mixture appears light, fluffy, and pale in color.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Transfer the dough into a cookie press fitted with your desired decorative disk.
- Press cookies directly onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 7–9 minutes, watching closely until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Flavor Variations: Swap vanilla extract for almond, lemon, or peppermint extract for a festive twist.
- Colorful Dough: Add a few drops of food coloring to create vibrant holiday designs.
- Chocolate Lovers: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate and allow it to set.
- Sprinkles and Sugar: Decorate with sanding sugar or sprinkles before baking for added sparkle.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a high-quality plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition Information (Per Cookie – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90–110 kcal |
| Total Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 25 mg |
| Sodium | 35 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
Serving Suggestions
Classic butter spritz cookies shine on festive dessert platters and pair beautifully with hot cocoa, coffee, or tea. They also make charming edible gifts when packed in decorative tins or cellophane bags. During the holidays, these cookies can be arranged alongside gingerbread, shortbread, and sugar cookies for a visually stunning cookie spread.
Classic Butter Spritz Cookies: A Timeless Holiday Favorite
4 cookies
servings15
minutes7
minutes90-110
kcalIngredients
1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2¼ cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Leave baking sheets ungreased or use very light parchment if needed.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer dough to a cookie press fitted with desired disk.
- Press cookies directly onto baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 7–9 minutes, until edges are just lightly golden.
- Cool on baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Butter should be softened but not melted to achieve the best dough consistency.
If cookies do not release cleanly from the press, chill the dough for 10–15 minutes.
FAQs
1. Why won’t my spritz cookies stick to the baking sheet?
Spritz cookies need to adhere slightly to the baking surface to release properly from the cookie press. Using parchment paper or silicone mats can sometimes prevent this. For best results, press the dough directly onto an ungreased, cool baking sheet.
2. Can I make butter spritz cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator. Before using, allow the dough to soften slightly at room temperature so it presses easily through the cookie press.
3. What is the best butter to use for spritz cookies?
Unsalted butter is recommended because it allows better control over the salt content and delivers a clean, rich flavor. Using high-quality butter enhances the overall taste and texture of the cookies.
4. Why are my spritz cookies spreading too much?
Excess spreading usually happens when the butter is too warm or the dough is overmixed. Chilling the dough briefly and measuring ingredients accurately can help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
5. Can spritz cookies be frozen?
Absolutely. Baked spritz cookies freeze well for up to two months when stored in an airtight container. Dough can also be frozen and thawed in the refrigerator before baking.
Conclusion
Classic Butter Spritz Cookies continue to be cherished for good reason. Their buttery flavor, delicate texture, and endless customization options make them a timeless baking favorite. Whether prepared for a holiday celebration or a quiet afternoon of baking, these cookies bring warmth, nostalgia, and joy with every bite. Mastering this simple recipe opens the door to countless variations, ensuring that butter spritz cookies remain a beloved tradition for years to come.
