Are you ready to unleash your inner baker and create a batch of cookies that are not only incredibly delicious but also stunningly beautiful? Then look no further! This Spritz Cookie Cream Cheese recipe is your ticket to holiday baking bliss. Forget store-bought – these melt-in-your-mouth cookies, infused with the tangy richness of cream cheese, are surprisingly easy to make and will impress everyone who tastes them. Prepare for a flurry of compliments and requests for the recipe! This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply a delightful homemade treat.
Ingredients: You'll Need These for Cookie Perfection
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat recommended for best flavor and texture)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: Sprinkles, colored sugars, or chopped nuts for decoration
Instructions: Let's Bake Some Magic!
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Cream Together: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy. This is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. A stand mixer works wonders, but a hand mixer will do the job just as well.
Sweeten It Up: Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until well combined. The mixture will be light and airy.
Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Fill the Spritz Cookie Press: Transfer the cookie dough to a cookie press. If you don't have a cookie press, you can use a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a similar effect.
Shape and Bake: Press the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, creating festive shapes or simple swirls. Aim for cookies about 2 inches in diameter.
Baking Time: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Cooling Down: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Spritz Cookie Success
- Softened Butter and Cream Cheese are Key: Make sure both are thoroughly softened for optimal creaming. You can microwave them for short bursts, but be careful not to melt them.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten and result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest for a unique twist.
- Get Creative with Decorations: Use sprinkles, colored sugars, or even chopped nuts to add a festive touch.
Delicious Variations: Beyond the Classic
- Chocolate Spritz Cookies: Add ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Gingerbread Spritz Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves to the dry ingredients.
- Peppermint Spritz Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and crush some candy canes for decoration.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie - approximate)
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 6-8g
- Saturated Fat: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 12-15g
- Sugar: 8-10g
- Protein: 1-2g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
These easy recipes are perfect for any occasion and offer a healthy balance of flavors. Enjoy the deliciousness and happy baking!