Spritz cookies are little buttery treats that melt in your mouth with a delicate crispness. These charming little cookies are known for their pretty shapes—made by pressing the dough through a cookie press—and their light, slightly sweet flavor that’s perfect any time of year.
I love making spritz cookies during the holidays because they’re so easy to decorate with colorful sugar or sprinkles before baking. The dough is soft and smooth, which makes pressing out fun shapes a snap. It’s also a great recipe to get the kids involved, since they can help choose shapes and decorate!
These cookies always remind me of cozy family gatherings where everyone shares a plate of freshly baked spritz cookies with a cup of tea or hot chocolate. They’re simple, classic, and just the right little treat to enjoy with friends or a good book. Whenever I make them, I can’t resist sneaking a few straight from the baking sheet!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: This is the star of spritz cookies, giving them their rich, tender texture. Use unsalted butter so you control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, try a vegan butter substitute.
Sugar: Granulated sugar helps with sweetness and crispness. You can swap it for coconut sugar for a slightly deeper flavor, but the texture may change a bit.
Flour: All-purpose flour keeps the dough firm yet soft enough to press. For a gluten-free version, use a trusted gluten-free flour blend, but expect a slight difference in texture.
Egg: The egg binds the dough and adds richness. For egg-free baking, applesauce or flax egg can work, but the dough might be softer, so pressing shapes could be trickier.
Food Coloring & Decorations: Food coloring is optional for fun, colorful cookies. Natural options like beet or spinach powder can tint dough if you prefer avoiding artificial dyes. Sprinkles and sugar pearls add charm and sparkle.
How Do You Get the Perfect Shape and Texture with a Cookie Press?
The dough has to be just right—not too stiff or it won’t press out smoothly, not too soft or the shapes won’t hold. Here’s how to nail it:
- Beat butter and sugar well until fluffy. This creates a smooth base for the dough.
- Add flour gradually until the dough is soft but holds together when squeezed.
- If you add food coloring, knead gently and don’t overwork the dough.
- Load the cookie press carefully—avoid air pockets for even pressing.
- Press cookies straight onto parchment-lined sheets, spacing them for room to spread.
- Bake just until edges lightly brown—overbaking makes cookies lose their tender texture.
Using a cookie press can be fun once you get the rhythm. If the dough sticks inside, chill it briefly, or dust the press discs lightly with flour. Enjoy making pretty shapes that look as good as they taste!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Cookie press – essential for creating those classic spritz shapes easily and neatly.
- Baking sheets – flat and sturdy to hold your cookies while they bake evenly.
- Parchment paper – prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup quick.
- Electric mixer – helps cream the butter and sugar smoothly for perfect dough texture.
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients and dividing dough if you add colors.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add almond extract instead of vanilla for a lovely nutty twist that pairs well with the buttery dough.
- Mix in finely chopped pistachios or colored sugar sprinkles before pressing for extra crunch and color.
- Try lemon or orange zest in the dough to add bright citrus notes that freshen up the classic flavor.
- Swap half the butter for cream cheese to make the cookies extra tender with a subtle tang.
Classic Spritz Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Decoration (Optional):
- Food coloring (red, green, blue) for colored cookies
- Edible gold or silver sugar pearls or sanding sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 8-10 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to allow 5 minutes for cooling on the baking sheet before transferring the cookies to cool completely. So, plan for around 30 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare for Baking:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking.
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until just combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. The dough should be soft but hold its shape when pressed.
3. Add Color (Optional):
If you want colorful cookies like in the picture, divide the dough into separate bowls and add a few drops of food coloring to each. Knead gently until the color is evenly mixed.
4. Shape the Cookies:
Load your cookie press with the dough—using a spoon helps to fill it smoothly. Press the cookies directly onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about one inch apart.
If you like, sprinkle a little granulated or sanding sugar on each cookie. You can also add edible sugar pearls in the center for a festive touch.
5. Bake and Cool:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges just start to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake to keep them tender and crisp.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Store and Enjoy:
Once cooled, store your spritz cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep well for several days, perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea!
Can I Use Frozen Butter for Spritz Cookies?
It’s best to use softened butter for this recipe because it creams smoothly with the sugar, creating the right dough texture. If your butter is frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight or leave it out at room temperature until soft but not melted.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Before pressing, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly for easier pressing.
What Should I Do If My Dough Is Too Sticky or Too Dry?
If the dough is too sticky to press, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk or an extra egg yolk and mix gently until it comes together.
How Do I Store Leftover Spritz Cookies?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature before serving.
