Classic Spritz Cookies with Chocolate Dip
This easy recipe for buttery Spritz Cookies will have you hooked! Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, these cookies are crisp, tender, and dipped in chocolate for an irresistible finish.
Ingredients
- 250g butter (softened) 🧈
- 200g sugar 🍬
- 1 packet vanilla sugar 🌿 (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- 2 eggs 🥚🥚
- 400g all-purpose flour 🌾
- 1 tsp baking powder 🧁
- 100g chocolate (for dipping) 🍫
Instructions
1. Cream the butter and sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and vanilla sugar (or vanilla extract) until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
3. Prepare the dough:
Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the wet ingredients. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
4. Shape the cookies:
Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a star or round tip. Pipe the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, creating your desired shapes.
5. Bake the cookies:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
6. Melt the chocolate:
While the cookies are cooling, melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, or microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
7. Dip and decorate:
Dip one end of each cookie into the melted chocolate and place it back on parchment paper to set. Let the chocolate harden completely before serving or storing.
Spritz Cookies Recipe FAQs
1. What are Spritz Cookies?
Spritz Cookies are classic buttery cookies that are piped into intricate shapes using a piping bag or cookie press. They are crisp, tender, and often dipped in chocolate for extra flavor.
2. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe if your butter is salted. For this recipe, since no extra salt is listed, you can use salted butter directly.
3. What can I use if I don’t have a piping bag or cookie press?
You can use a sturdy plastic zip-top bag with the corner cut off or roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly with a fork.
4. Can I substitute vanilla sugar with vanilla extract?
Yes, use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract as a substitute for 1 packet of vanilla sugar.
5. How do I ensure my cookies hold their shape during baking?
- Avoid over-softening the butter.
- Chill the piped cookies on the baking sheet for 10-15 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
6. Can I add other flavors to the dough?
Absolutely! You can add almond extract, lemon zest, or even cocoa powder for a twist on the classic recipe.
7. What type of chocolate works best for dipping?
Use high-quality melting chocolate or couverture chocolate for the best results. You can also use chocolate chips with a teaspoon of vegetable oil for smooth melting.
8. How long do Spritz Cookies stay fresh?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
9. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before piping.
10. Are Spritz Cookies suitable for gifting?
Definitely! They make perfect gifts, especially when dipped in chocolate and presented in decorative tins or gift bags.