Classic Almond Spritz Cookies
This Classic Almond Spritz Cookies recipe has been cherished through generations, originating from a beloved family recipe that won a prestigious Christmas cookie contest over three decades ago. With a perfect blend of rich butter, finely ground almonds, and aromatic extracts of vanilla and almond, these cookies melt in your mouth. Their delightful texture is achieved through a delicate cream mixture, making them an ideal treat for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. Decorated with colorful sugar or wholesome candied cherries, these cookies are not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight that will appeal to all ages.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
1 (lb, softened)
sugar
3/4 (cup)
egg yolk
1 (beaten)
vanilla extract
1 (teaspoon)
almond extract
1 (teaspoon)
finely ground blanched almond
1/4 (cup)
flour
4 (cups)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
2
Add the beaten egg yolk, finely ground almonds, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture. Beat until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3
Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing gently after each addition until fully combined. Be cautious not to overmix to ensure the cookies remain tender.
4
If the dough feels too warm to handle, allow it to cool slightly, but avoid chilling it for too long, as this may make the dough difficult to work with when using a cookie press.
5
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a cookie press, shape the cookies onto an ungreased cookie sheet. For a festive touch, decorate the cookies with colored sugar or place pieces of candied cherries on top.
6
Bake the cookies for 7 to 9 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent any browning, as the ideal spritz cookie should remain pale and tender.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Classic Almond Spritz Cookies?
Classic Almond Spritz Cookies are a traditional, melt-in-your-mouth holiday treat made with rich butter, ground almonds, and almond and vanilla extracts, often shaped using a cookie press.
How much butter is required for this recipe?
This recipe requires 1 lb (one pound) of softened butter.
What is the secret to the texture of these cookies?
The delightful texture is achieved through a delicate cream mixture of butter and sugar, as well as the addition of finely ground almonds and a single egg yolk.
How long should I cream the butter and sugar?
You should cream the softened butter and sugar together for about 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
What flavorings are used in these cookies?
The recipe uses both vanilla extract and almond extract to provide its signature aromatic flavor.
How many egg yolks are needed?
The recipe calls for 1 beaten egg yolk.
How much flour should I add?
You should add 4 cups of flour, mixing it in gradually one cup at a time.
Why is it important not to overmix the dough?
Avoiding overmixing ensures that the cookies remain tender rather than becoming tough.
What should I do if the dough is too warm?
If the dough feels too warm to handle, allow it to cool slightly, but do not chill it for too long as it may become difficult to use in a cookie press.
At what temperature should the cookies be baked?
The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Should I grease the cookie sheet?
No, you should use an ungreased cookie sheet so the dough can properly adhere when using the cookie press.
How long do the cookies need to bake?
The cookies bake for 7 to 9 minutes.
How can I tell when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when they are set; keep a close eye on them to prevent browning, as they should remain pale.
How can I decorate these cookies for the holidays?
You can decorate them with colored sugar or place small pieces of candied cherries on top before baking.
What type of almonds should I use?
The recipe specifies 1/4 cup of finely ground blanched almonds.
Is this a traditional recipe?
Yes, it is a traditional German-style family recipe that has been cherished through generations.
Can I use a cookie press with this dough?
Yes, this dough is specifically designed to be shaped using a cookie press.
Where does this specific recipe come from?
It originated from a family recipe that won a prestigious Christmas cookie contest over 30 years ago.
How much sugar is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of sugar.
Can I substitute the almond extract?
While you can substitute it, the almond extract is essential for the classic flavor of these almond spritz cookies.
Is this recipe suitable for Christmas?
Yes, it is highly recommended for holiday baking and is a festive favorite.
What happens if I chill the dough too long?
Chilling the dough too long makes it too firm to be easily pushed through a cookie press.
Are these cookies soft or crunchy?
They have a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is tender rather than crunchy.
What kind of sugar is best for the dough?
Standard granulated white sugar is typically used for this recipe.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: butter, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, almond extract, ground almonds, and flour.
What is the prep time for the creamed mixture?
It takes about 3 to 5 minutes to properly cream the butter and sugar.
Should the egg yolk be beaten before adding?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 1 beaten egg yolk.
Can children help make these?
Yes, they are a visual delight and children often enjoy using the cookie press and decorating with colored sugar.
What makes the cookies look festive?
The use of various cookie press shapes combined with colored sugars and candied cherries provides a festive look.
Do these cookies contain many allergens?
These cookies contain common allergens including dairy (butter), eggs (yolk), wheat (flour), and tree nuts (almonds).