Cream cheese spritz cookies are a delightful treat that evoke warm memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Their tender texture, thanks to the cream cheese, combined with the whimsical decorations make them a favorite for both kids and adults alike. There’s something about squeezing the dough through a cookie press that adds a special touch to your baking experience. Whether you’re honing your skills in the kitchen or simply craving a deliciously sweet bite, these cookies are an excellent choice.
Uncover the Magic of Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies
Why whip up these cookies? For starters, they’re incredibly easy to make while delivering impressive results. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create beautiful, eye-catching treats perfect for holiday cookie platters or everyday celebrations. Plus, they’re versatile! Whether you’re dusting them with colorful sugar for a festive look or adding your favorite sprinkles, these cookies will stand out on any dessert table.
"These cookies are my go-to for holiday gatherings! They are soft, flavorful, and so easy to decorate. Everyone loves them!" – Happy Baker
The Journey of Making Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies
Creating these cookies is a simple and rewarding process. You’ll start by preparing a creamy dough, followed by shaping them effortlessly with a cookie press. The final touch comes with a sprinkle of fun decorations, making each cookie unique. Don’t worry if you’re new to cookie decorating; this recipe is forgiving and encourages creativity.
What You’ll Need
To recreate these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup shortening
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
- Decorative toppings like colored sugar, sprinkles, red hots, or jimmies
Ingredient Notes:
- Shortening provides a tender texture, but you can substitute with softened butter for a more pronounced flavor.
- You can play around with the zest depending on your preference; lemon works beautifully, too!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 350ºF (177ºC) to get it ready for baking.
- Cream the fats. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to combine 1 cup of shortening, 3 ounces of softened cream cheese, and 1 cup of granulated sugar until creamy.
- Add the egg yolk and vanilla. Mix in 1 large egg yolk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until fully incorporated.
- Prepare the dry mix. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
- Combine mixtures. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in 1 teaspoon of finely grated orange zest.
- Shape the cookies. Fill a cookie press fitted with your desired disk with the dough. Press onto ungreased cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Decorate. Add your choice of colored sugar, sprinkles, or other toppings.
- Bake. Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 6-8 minutes, or until set.
- Cool. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Repeat with remaining dough.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These cream cheese spritz cookies can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven, perfect alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a twist, try pairing them with homemade whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a special dessert. You can even sandwich two cookies with frosting or jam for an extra indulgent treat!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To ensure your cookies stay fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. They can be thawed at room temperature or warmed slightly in the oven before serving.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Consistency matters. Make sure the cream cheese is softened to ensure a smooth mix; otherwise, you may end up with lumps.
- Chill the dough. If you find that the dough is too soft to work with, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
- Experiment! Don’t hesitate to switch up the flavors; try adding almond extract or different zests for a unique twist.
Creative Twists
Switching up your toppings can refresh this classic recipe. Consider trying:
- Chocolate drizzle for a decadent touch.
- Nut flavors, like crushed pistachios or walnuts, for extra crunch.
- A hint of maple syrup in place of vanilla for a warm flavor.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
Preparation generally takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes for baking, making this a quick addition to your baking rotation.
Can I substitute the shortening?
Yes! While shortening creates tender cookies, you can use unsalted butter as a substitute, which will add a richer flavor.
Can these cookies be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies or freeze the dough before baking for a quick treat later.
Indulging in homemade cream cheese spritz cookies not only fills your home with delightful aromas but also creates lasting memories. From festive celebrations to simple family gatherings, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them. Happy baking!
