Easy Butter Spritz Cookies: Perfectly Soft and Delicious Every Time
If you’re looking for a simple, yet delightful cookie to make for the holidays or any special occasion, butter spritz cookies are a must-try! These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized with different sprinkles or festive decorations. They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or simply enjoying with a warm cup of tea. Follow this recipe for a batch of classic butter spritz cookies that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Ingredients for Butter Spritz Cookies
For the Cookies:
- 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 egg
- Sprinkles or colored sugar for decoration (optional)
Instructions for Making Butter Spritz Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing just until the dough comes together and is smooth.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
- Using a spritz cookie press or a piping bag with a decorative tip, shape the dough into small rosettes, trees, or any desired design directly onto the prepared baking sheet.
- If you don’t have a cookie press, you can roll the dough into balls and slightly flatten them with a fork to create a simple design.
- Decorate the cookies with colorful sprinkles or colored sugar for a festive touch.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Be sure not to overbake them, as you want them to stay soft and tender.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once fully cooled, serve your butter spritz cookies with a cup of tea or store them in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Why You’ll Love These Butter Spritz Cookies
- Buttery and Soft: These cookies are perfectly soft with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a batch of delicious cookies ready in no time.
- Festive and Customizable: You can customize these cookies with different shapes, sprinkles, and colored sugar, making them perfect for holidays or any occasion.
Baking Tips for Perfect Butter Spritz Cookies
- Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is soft but not melted. This helps create the smooth, creamy dough needed for the cookies to hold their shape when pressed or piped.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft or sticky to press, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to work with and create a cleaner shape.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies bake quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on them. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden to avoid making them too crisp.
How to Store Butter Spritz Cookies
- Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- To keep them fresh longer, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply place the cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, and allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these cookies without a cookie press?
Yes! If you don’t have a cookie press, you can shape the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly with a fork or your fingers.
2. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
For the best results, use unsalted butter. Margarine can make the cookies a little softer, but it’s still an acceptable substitute.
3. Can I add other flavors to these cookies?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding lemon zest, cinnamon, or other flavor extracts to make the cookies uniquely yours.
Why You Should Try This Butter Spritz Cookie Recipe
These butter spritz cookies are a classic that never goes out of style. The combination of buttery flavor and soft texture makes them a favorite for many. With their festive appearance, they’re perfect for any celebration, holiday, or just as an everyday treat to enjoy with your loved ones. Plus, they’re simple to make and so much fun to decorate!
Give this butter spritz cookie recipe a try today! It’s a simple and rewarding way to create delicious cookies that everyone will adore. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these cookies will certainly satisfy your cravings.