Whipping up classic European flavors in your own kitchen has never been tastier or easier than with this delightful recipe for German Spritz cookies. These delicate treats are a beloved addition to any gathering, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, or simply savoring as a sweet snack. With a buttery texture and a hint of almond, German Spritz cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
**German Spritz**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes German Spritz cookies so irresistible.
3. Add the egg and almond extract to the butter mixture, beating well until everything is thoroughly combined. The almond extract provides a lovely, subtle flavor that elevates these cookies to the next level.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
5. Fill a cookie press with the dough, choosing a design that appeals to you. Press the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about an inch apart. If you don’t have a cookie press, you can also use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to create the signature swirl shape of German Spritz cookies.
6. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them, as they can quickly go from perfectly baked to overly browned.
7. Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. These cookies are delicate when warm, so allowing them to cool will help them firm up and become easier to handle.
8. Store your German Spritz cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be enjoyed for several days, although they are so delicious they may not last that long!
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of German Spritz cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a solo treat. With their buttery goodness and delicate texture, these cookies are sure to evoke feelings of warmth and comfort in every bite. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a batch of these delightful European-inspired cookies in your own kitchen today.
