There’s something timeless about buttery cookies at Christmastime. These Traditional German Butter Cookies, often known as spritz cookies, are crisp, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, gift boxes, or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa by the tree. Best of all? This recipe is simple, beginner-friendly, and comes together with just a few pantry staples.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Dessert / Cookies |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 8–10 minutes per batch |
| Servings | ~36 cookies |
| Calories | ~90 kcal per cookie |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional for decorating:
- Colored sugar, sprinkles, or melted chocolate drizzle
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. - Cream the butter & sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with a hand mixer (or stand mixer) until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. - Add egg & vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. - Mix the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. - Shape the cookies
Spoon the dough into a cookie press fitted with your favorite disk shape (wreaths, stars, trees, etc.). Press cookies directly onto the prepared baking sheets. If decorating with colored sugar or sprinkles, add them now before baking. - Bake
Bake for 8–10 minutes, until edges are just barely golden. Do not overbake—these cookies should stay light in color. - Cool & enjoy
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Butter matters: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
- Cookie press trick: Press dough directly onto unlined or silicone-lined sheets (not parchment) for best sticking results.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They also freeze beautifully for up to 2 months.
- Make-ahead: Dough can be made 1 day in advance and chilled. Let it soften slightly before pressing.
Recipe Variations
- Almond twist: Replace vanilla with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Citrus hint: Add 1 teaspoon lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright holiday twist.
- Chocolate drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle cookies with melted chocolate or dip half of each cookie for extra indulgence.
- Festive fun: Decorate with red and green sprinkles before baking for a holiday look.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a mug of hot cocoa, or spiced tea.
- Add to a holiday cookie platter alongside gingerbread and sugar cookies.
- Wrap a few in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Serve as a sweet finish to a Christmas dinner spread.
Conclusion
These Traditional German Butter Cookies bring a touch of Old World charm to the holiday table. Crisp, buttery, and beautifully simple, they’re a joy to bake and share with family and friends. Whether you’re pressing them into festive shapes or dressing them up with sprinkles, these cookies are a holiday tradition you’ll treasure. So bake a batch, pour a warm drink, and enjoy a cozy moment of sweetness this season.