When it comes to Christmas baking, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your home. One classic German Christmas recipe that is sure to add a touch of tradition and sweetness to your holiday season is Butter Spritzgebäck, also known as Butter Spritz Cookies. These delicate, buttery treats are not only delicious but also a joy to make and share with loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the magic of creating these delightful little cookies!
**Butter Spritzgebäck Butter Spritz Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. Make sure your cookie press is clean and ready to use for shaping the cookies.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugar:**
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies.
3. **Add Egg and Vanilla:**
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The egg adds richness to the dough, while the vanilla provides that classic flavor we all love in cookies.
4. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:**
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as it can result in tough cookies.
5. **Fill the Cookie Press:**
Load the cookie dough into your cookie press according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Choose the desired disk shape for your cookies; there are many fun designs to choose from for that special holiday touch.
6. **Shape the Cookies:**
Press the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in your desired shapes, leaving a small space between each cookie. Just press, release, and repeat. Get creative with your designs for a festive touch!
7. **Bake and Enjoy:**
Bake the Butter Spritz Cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary. Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These delightful Butter Spritz Cookies are perfect for serving at holiday gatherings, packaging as gifts, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa by the fire. The buttery flavor and delicate texture make them a timeless holiday favorite that will surely have your guests coming back for more.
Embrace the joy of holiday baking with this classic German recipe and create lasting memories with your loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and let the magic of Butter Spritzgebäck fill your home with the spirit of Christmas! Contributing to the festive atmosphere with homemade treats is a tradition worth cherishing, and these delightful cookies are sure to become a staple in your holiday repertoire. Happy baking!
