Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies

Whipping up a batch of homemade cookies can effortlessly add a touch of warmth and sweetness to your day. Today, we’re sharing a delightful recipe for Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies that are the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. These cookies have a rich buttery flavor, a hint of tanginess from cream cheese, and just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, they come together easily with the help of a cookie press, allowing you to create beautiful shapes that will surely impress your friends and family. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp almond extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp salt
– Food coloring gel (optional)
– Sprinkles or colored sugar for decorating (optional)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the mixture, beating well until fully combined.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a smooth dough forms. If you want to add color to your cookies, divide the dough into separate bowls and mix in a few drops of food coloring gel until you achieve the desired shades.
5. Fill a cookie press with the dough, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the desired design, and press the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
6. Decorate the cookies with sprinkles or colored sugar, if using.
7. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake as the cookies can quickly go from perfectly baked to too crispy.
8. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Store the Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These cookies also freeze well for longer storage if needed.

Lending a personal touch to store-bought treats, these Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or simply as a cozy evening treat, their delicate texture and melt-in-your-mouth flavor will make them an instant favorite. So, grab your cookie press, put on your favorite apron, and let’s bake up some scrumptious Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies to share and enjoy!