Simple and Delicious Butter Spritz Cookies Recipe: Perfect for Any Occasion

Looking for a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that’s both easy to make and perfect for holidays or family gatherings? Look no further than butter spritz cookies! These cookies are light, sweet, and wonderfully festive, with a rich buttery flavor and soft, delicate texture. Whether you’re using a cookie press or simply shaping the dough with your hands, these cookies are incredibly versatile and fun to decorate. Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible treats that will have everyone asking for more!

Ingredients for Butter Spritz Cookies

For the Cookie Dough:

• 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• Colorful sprinkles or sugar crystals for decoration (optional)

Instructions: How to Make Butter Spritz Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes with an electric mixer.
2. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and beat until smooth and well-combined.
3. Gradually mix in the flour until the dough forms a soft, cohesive mass. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. If you have a cookie press, fill it with the dough and press out shapes directly onto the baking sheet. Alternatively, you can use your hands to roll small balls of dough and gently flatten them with a fork to create a simple design.
2. Add sprinkles or colored sugar on top of the cookies for a festive touch.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them, as these cookies bake quickly!
2. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the cookies are cool, serve them on a platter or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Why These Butter Spritz Cookies are a Must-Try

• Buttery Flavor: The rich butter flavor is the star of this cookie, with a light and delicate texture that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Celebration: With their festive look, these cookies are ideal for holidays, birthdays, or any occasion that calls for something special.
• Quick and Easy to Make: These cookies require minimal ingredients and only a few simple steps, making them perfect for novice bakers or anyone looking to whip up something delicious in no time.

Baking Tips for Perfect Butter Spritz Cookies

• Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best mixing and texture. Cold butter can result in dough that’s difficult to work with.
• Use a Cookie Press: A cookie press makes it easy to create beautiful shapes without the hassle of rolling and cutting the dough. If you don’t have one, you can still achieve lovely results by rolling the dough into balls and flattening them.
• Don’t Overbake: The cookies are done when they just start to turn golden around the edges. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so it’s best to keep a close eye on them.

How to Store Butter Spritz Cookies

1. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
2. These cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and thaw them at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, butter is preferred for the rich flavor and texture it imparts to the dough. Margarine may also make the cookies softer.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Let the dough thaw in the refrigerator before using.

3. How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
Feel free to add citrus zest (like lemon or orange) or cinnamon to the dough for a more flavorful twist.

Why You’ll Love These Butter Spritz Cookies

Butter spritz cookies are the ultimate balance of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re looking to create a festive treat or just bake something special for yourself, these cookies offer a satisfying bite with minimal effort. Plus, they’re perfect for making ahead and sharing with others.

If you’re craving something light and delicious, give this butter spritz cookie recipe a try! It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor, making it a fantastic choice for any time of year. Enjoy with a cup of tea or share them with family and friends at your next gathering.