No holiday celebration cookie plate would be complete without the classic spritz cookie. Most people nibble on these cookies but never put any thought as to what they are eating. Where do these treats come from and why are they called spritz cookies.

Spritz cookies are of German origin, their real name being Spritzgeback. The name comes from the German word “spritzen,” which means to squirt. This is a highly appropriate name since the cookies are pushed through a cookie press. The result are a richly buttered and airy almost dry final product.

You may take these cookies to the next level by decorating them. You can utilize sanding sugar before baking to give them a holiday gem-like finish, or you can drizzle them with colored icing or melting chocolate and sprinkles, as I did. If decorating is too much effort, don’t fret. Spritz cookies are perfectly fine on their own.

This recipe ,as well as the next few, showcases Christmas traditions from around the world. It’s always great to experience a touch of another culture and include these customs in your own home. It is sure to inspire and delight everyone around, and hopefully this recipe and the ones that follow will make your holiday experience a bit more worldly.

Spritz Cookies

2 Cups All-Purpose Flour
1/4 TSP Baking Powder
1/4 TSP Salt
1 Cup Unsalted Butter, softened
1/2 Cup Sugar
2 Large Egg Yolks
2 TSP Vanilla Paste
2 TSP Lemon Zest

Procedure:

In a medium sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg yolks and vanilla, mix until combined.
Reduce the speed to low and incorporate the flour mixture. Mix until a smooth and soft dough forms.
Wrap in plastic and chill at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350 F
Place the dough in a cookie press and press cookies onto a parchment lined sheet pans. Place each cookie 1 inch apart.

Bake for 10 – 12 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and place on a rack to cool.

Spritz Cookies Card