basic spritz cookies

basic spritz cookies

Christmas time is always a wonderful time of the year for me.  after moving to tennessee, it’s a little bit different and even though i’m far away from the majority of my family, i can still hold onto a lot of our traditions.  of course, my mom is an awesome cook and pretty much everything i know about cooking, i picked up from her.  baking is a big part of our Christmases, so of course, i had to bake up a batch of these.  it makes Christmas feel a little bit more like the ones i used to know. 🙂

first you need to find a good cookie press.  i’m a fan of the metal ones, they are durable and do not eat up batteries like the plastic ones.  i found this one on target.com and i’m quite a fan.  the barrel is smaller than i would like, but it works like a champ!

now for the recipe:

  • 1/2 c butter, softened
  • 1/4 c shortening
  • 3/4 c granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tsp vanilla*
  • 2 c flour
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  1. place butter and shortening in large mixing bowl.  cream together on medium speed.
  2. add sugar gradually, beat until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
  3. add egg and vanilla; mix well using medium speed.
  4. combine flour, baking powder and salt in separate bowl.  add to butter/sugar mixture in 3 additions; mixing well after each addition.  dough will be stiff.  (add desired amount of food coloring at this point.)
  5. assemble cookie press and fill with dough, using desired disc.
  6. press cookies on un-greased cookie sheet.  decorate.
  7. bake at 375° for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges.  do not overbake.

*you can substitute any flavor extract for vanilla, i use orange extract and grate in a bit of orange rind.

enjoy!



6 thoughts on “basic spritz cookies”

  • The trees with the cinnamon candy on top always reminds me of my mom making “Barry’s Christmas trees.” Thanks for the post!

    • I didn’t know that these are Barry’s Christmas Trees! Or maybe I did at one time and forgot. Anyways, they are pretty tasty! I think I might make them for Valentine’s day with raspberry extract and red die. The cookie press that I bought has a ton of designs, including hearts. 🙂

  • I have three cookie presses. I have to say I like the battery powered one better. I used to use the heart shaped design for the “coffee bites” I made for work when I managed the bookstores. All of the staff loved them. Orange zest is always the way to go for me. I am very interested in a raspberry extract though, I’ve never seen it. Where did you find raspberry? Please do tell.

  • Awe!!!!! You made your ol ma cry!!!! Uncle Barry insists on the orange zest. I usually leave the zest out now because sometimes it has clogged up my press. You are right sweetie…it just wouldn’t be Christmas without our green trees!!!! I am thrilled that you have the inherited a love for cooking and I am sure Thomas is thrilled as well! I love you Darlin Daughter!

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