Spritz Cookies Recipe: The Buttery, Festive Classic

Few cookies capture the warmth and nostalgia of the holidays like Spritz Cookies. These delicate, buttery treats, often piped or pressed into elegant shapes, are a staple of Christmas cookie platters across Europe and North America. Light, crisp, and irresistibly tender, Spritz Cookies are not only beautiful to look at but also incredibly simple to make with the right technique.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to bake the perfect batch — from the traditional German origins of Spritz Cookies to modern twists, flavor variations, and expert tips to make them stand out at any celebration.

What Are Spritz Cookies?

Spritz Cookies (from the German word spritzen, meaning “to squirt” or “to press”) are classic butter cookies made by pressing soft dough through a cookie press to create intricate shapes like stars, flowers, or trees.

Unlike rolled or cut-out cookies, the dough for Spritz Cookies is soft enough to be pressed directly onto the baking sheet — no rolling pin or cookie cutters required.

These cookies are known for:

• Their buttery flavor

• Crisp yet tender texture

• Their decorative shapes

• Their versatility — perfect for holidays, tea time, or edible gifts.

Ingredients for the Best Spritz Cookies

To achieve that classic taste and perfect texture, start with high-quality ingredients.

 Classic Spritz Cookie Ingredients:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
  → The butter should be at room temperature for the right texture.

• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  → Adds sweetness and helps the cookies crisp up slightly.

• 1 large egg
  → Binds the dough and gives it structure.

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  → For classic flavor. Almond extract can also be used or combined for a festive touch.

• 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
  → The base of the dough.

• ¼ teaspoon salt
  → Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Spritz Cookies

Here’s how to make your Spritz Cookies perfectly every time.

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). This step is crucial — it adds air to the dough, ensuring a delicate, crisp texture.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The mixture should be creamy and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing — you want the dough to remain soft and pliable.

Step 4: Prepare the Cookie Press

Fill your cookie press with dough and choose your desired disc design (flowers, trees, snowflakes, hearts, etc.). Press the cookies directly onto an ungreased baking sheet (not parchment paper — the dough needs to stick slightly).

Step 5: Decorate (Optional)

Before baking, you can sprinkle your cookies with:

• Colored sugar

• Nonpareils

• Chopped nuts

• Edible glitter or metallic dust

This adds festive charm and texture.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden.

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Flavor Variations to Try

The beauty of the Spritz Cookie recipe lies in its versatility. Once you master the base dough, you can experiment endlessly.

Here are some flavor ideas:

1. Almond Spritz Cookies

Replace 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Decorate with sliced almonds for a delicate nutty flavor.

2. Chocolate Spritz Cookies

Add ¼ cup of cocoa powder to the flour mixture for a rich, chocolatey variation. Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate for an extra treat.

3. Lemon Spritz Cookies

Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and replace half of the vanilla extract with lemon extract for a zesty, fresh twist.

4. Peppermint Spritz Cookies

Add a few drops of peppermint extract and decorate with crushed candy canes — a perfect Christmas twist!

5. Hazelnut or Pistachio Spritz

Mix finely ground nuts into the dough (about ¼ cup) for added texture and depth of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Spritz Cookies Every Time

1. Use Room-Temperature Butter
   Cold butter makes the dough too stiff, while melted butter ruins the shape. Softened butter is key.

2. Skip the Parchment Paper
   The dough needs to cling slightly to the baking sheet to release from the press properly.

3. Chill the Baking Sheet, Not the Dough
   Warm sheets cause the dough to spread too much. Use cool, ungreased sheets for each batch.

4. Test the First Cookie Press
   The first cookie from the press is often imperfect — test and adjust the pressure before proceeding.

5. Don’t Overbake
   Spritz Cookies should stay pale — bake only until the edges begin to turn golden.

6. Store Properly
   Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Decorating Ideas for the Holidays

Spritz Cookies are the perfect canvas for creative decoration. Try these festive touches:

• Colored Sugar Sprinkles: Before baking, dust cookies with red, green, or gold sugar.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt white, milk, or dark chocolate and drizzle over cooled cookies.

• Dipped Ends: Dip half the cookie in chocolate, then coat with crushed nuts or sprinkles.

• Icing Designs: Pipe royal icing or colored glaze onto cooled cookies for intricate designs.

These small touches make your Spritz Cookies sparkle on cookie platters and gift boxes.

Spritz Cookies for Every Season

Though Spritz Cookies are traditionally associated with Christmas, they’re wonderful year-round.

• 🌷 Spring: Use pastel-colored sugar and flower-shaped discs.

• ☀️ Summer: Add citrus zest and decorate with light glaze.

• 🍂 Fall: Try pumpkin spice or cinnamon sugar.

• ❄️ Winter Holidays: Classic vanilla, almond, or peppermint versions with red and green decor.

Their versatility makes them a go-to recipe for any celebration — weddings, birthdays, baby showers, or cozy tea parties.

How to Store and Freeze Spritz Cookies

To Store:
Cool cookies completely and place them in airtight containers with parchment layers between. They keep their texture beautifully for up to 2 weeks.

To Freeze:
You can freeze the baked cookies or unbaked dough.

• For baked cookies, layer between parchment in freezer bags.

• For unbaked dough, press it into discs, wrap tightly in plastic, and thaw before using in the cookie press.

Spritz Cookie Troubleshooting

Even experienced bakers can encounter small issues. Here’s how to fix common problems:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe Spritz Cookies offers:

• Simple ingredients you already have at home

• Quick preparation — ready in under 30 minutes

• Elegant appearance with minimal effort

• Customizable flavors for any mood or season

• Perfect texture — crisp edges, soft center, buttery melt

Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, gifting homemade treats, or building your own cookie box, Spritz Cookies never disappoint.

Nutritional Information (Per 2 Cookies)

(Approximate values)

• Calories: 120

• Fat: 7g

• Carbohydrates: 12g

• Sugar: 6g

• Protein: 1.5g

These cookies are indulgent but perfectly portioned — ideal for a sweet treat without overdoing it.

The History of Spritz Cookies

Spritz Cookies have deep roots in German and Scandinavian traditions. The word Spritzgebäck comes from “spritzen” (to press or squirt), describing how the dough is pushed through a press or piping bag.

They became popular in the 16th century, especially during Christmas, symbolizing joy, hospitality, and celebration. Immigrants later brought the tradition to the U.S., where Spritz Cookies became a holiday classic, often made with ornate cookie presses passed down through generations.

Serving Suggestions

Spritz Cookies pair beautifully with:

• Hot chocolate

• Coffee or espresso

• Spiced tea or mulled wine

• Vanilla ice cream for a fancy dessert

You can also sandwich two cookies with jam or chocolate ganache for a delightful twist!

Creative Twists

If you’re feeling adventurous, try:

• Marble Spritz Cookies: Mix chocolate and vanilla doughs for a beautiful swirl.

• Rainbow Spritz: Divide dough and tint with food coloring for vibrant cookies.

• Stuffed Spritz Cookies: Press a thumbprint into each and fill with jam before baking.

Each variation adds fun and personality to your baking.

Final Thoughts

Spritz Cookies are a timeless treasure — a recipe that blends simplicity, tradition, and artistry. Whether you’re baking them for the first time or revisiting an old family favorite, their buttery aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture will instantly fill your home with warmth and joy.