Festive Chocolate-Dipped Spritz Cookies
Celebrate the holidays with these delightful Festive Chocolate-Dipped Spritz Cookies! Velvety sweet and buttery, these cookies are perfect for sharing or presenting on a festive cookie platter. Their charming shapes, created using a cookie press, make them as appealing as they are delicious. Coated in rich chocolate and adorned with colorful sprinkles or nuts, they are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of cocoa or shared with friends and family, these cookies bring joy and sweetness to the season!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter, softened
1 cup (softened)
sugar
3/4 cup (granulated)
large egg
1 (beaten)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (pure)
flour
2 1/4 cups (all-purpose)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (table salt)
baking powder
1/4 teaspoon (none)
white candy coating or milk chocolate confectionary coating
11 ounces (melted)
nuts (optional)
to taste (finely chopped)
candy sprinkles (optional)
to taste (colored nonpareils)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Festive Chocolate-Dipped Spritz Cookies?
These are buttery holiday cookies shaped using a cookie press, then dipped in chocolate and decorated with festive sprinkles or nuts.
What is the origin of the word spritz?
The name comes from the German word 'spritzen', which means to squirt, referring to the dough being pushed through a press.
Do I need special equipment to make these cookies?
Yes, a cookie press is traditionally used to create the specific decorative shapes characteristic of spritz cookies.
Can I make spritz cookies without a cookie press?
If you do not have a press, you can use a piping bag with a large star tip to pipe the dough into festive shapes.
Why must the butter be softened?
Softened butter ensures the dough is smooth and pliable enough to be easily forced through the cookie press disks.
Can I use granulated sugar?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 3/4 cup of granulated sugar to provide the perfect amount of sweetness and a crisp texture.
Why should the egg be beaten before adding?
Beating the egg helps it incorporate more thoroughly and evenly into the dense, buttery dough.
What type of vanilla extract is recommended?
Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor profile in these holiday treats.
What kind of flour should I use?
All-purpose flour is the standard choice, providing the necessary structure to hold the intricate pressed shapes during baking.
Is salt necessary in this recipe?
Yes, table salt is used to enhance the flavors of the butter and chocolate and to balance the sweetness.
What does baking powder do in this recipe?
A small amount of baking powder helps the cookies rise slightly, ensuring they are not too hard or dense.
What is white candy coating?
Candy coating, or confectionary coating, is a chocolate-like product that melts easily and sets firmly without needing to be tempered.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of white coating?
Yes, milk chocolate confectionary coating is a delicious alternative for dipping these cookies.
How should the nuts be prepared for topping?
Nuts should be finely chopped so they stick easily to the chocolate and don't overwhelm the delicate size of the cookie.
What kind of sprinkles work best?
Colored nonpareils or festive candy sprinkles are ideal for adding a decorative holiday touch.
How do I dip the cookies in chocolate?
Once the cookies are cooled, dip one half of each cookie into the melted coating and allow the excess to drip off before placing them on wax paper.
When should I add the sprinkles or nuts?
Apply the toppings immediately after dipping the cookies in chocolate while the coating is still wet so they adhere properly.
How do I melt the candy coating safely?
Melt it in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the mixture is completely smooth.
Should I grease the baking sheet?
No, spritz cookies should be pressed onto ungreased baking sheets to help the dough stick to the surface and pull away from the press.
What if my dough is too soft to hold its shape?
If the dough is too soft, you can let it rest in a cool area for a few minutes, but do not refrigerate it too long or it will become too hard to press.
How do I know when spritz cookies are finished baking?
The cookies are done when they are set and firm to the touch, but they should remain pale rather than turning golden brown.
Can I add food coloring to the cookie dough?
Yes, you can mix in a few drops of gel food coloring to create vibrant red or green holiday cookies.
How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture and freshness.
How long will these cookies stay fresh?
When stored in a sealed container, these cookies will stay fresh and delicious for about 1 to 2 weeks.
Can I freeze spritz cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze very well. You can freeze them for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
Can I make the dough in advance?
You can make the dough ahead of time, but ensure it returns to room temperature before attempting to use it in the cookie press.
Why are my cookies spreading too much during baking?
Cookies may spread if your baking sheet is warm from a previous batch or if the butter in the dough was melted rather than softened.
Can I substitute almond extract for vanilla?
Yes, substituting almond extract provides a lovely alternative flavor that is very traditional for spritz cookies.
Are these cookies good for a holiday cookie swap?
Absolutely, their decorative shapes and ability to stay fresh make them a favorite choice for holiday gifting and swaps.
What other toppings can I use?
Beyond nuts and sprinkles, you can try crushed candy canes, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of contrasting chocolate.