If you’re looking for a cookie that brings instant nostalgia, look no further than Mom’s Old-fashioned Spritz Butter Cookies. This Classic Spritz Cookie Recipe has stood the test of time for a reason — it’s simple, buttery, and perfect for decorating during the holidays.
Whether you remember watching your mom press dough through a vintage cookie press or you’re ready to start this cozy tradition with your kids, these Old Fashioned Butter Cookies are the real deal. Get ready to bake, decorate, and share — because this is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to every year.
Why Bake Classic Spritz Butter Cookies?
Spritz butter cookies are more than just sweet bites — they’re memories in the making. Here’s why you’ll love them:
✅ Timeless Taste: Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture with just a hint of vanilla.
✅ Fun to Make: Using a cookie press is oddly satisfying (and kids love to help).
✅ Perfect for Gifting: They look stunning in tins or cookie boxes.
✅ Budget-Friendly: Basic pantry ingredients — butter, sugar, flour — that go a long way.
👉 Did You Know?
Spritz comes from the German word spritzen, which means “to squirt” — fitting, since the dough is “squirted” or pressed through a cookie press!
Top 5 Must-Have Tools for the Perfect Spritz Butter Cookies
Tool | Why It Matters | Best Tip |
---|---|---|
Cookie Press | Creates the iconic shapes | Chill the press for cleaner shapes |
Mixing Bowls | For prepping ingredients | Use glass bowls for easy measuring |
Electric Mixer | Creams butter perfectly | Beat butter until pale & fluffy |
Baking Sheets + Parchment | Prevents sticking | Parchment keeps bottoms golden, not burnt |
Cooling Rack | Keeps cookies crisp | Don’t stack warm cookies — let them cool fully |

Mom’s Classic Spritz Cookie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup (130g) granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (or almond for variation)
- 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Colored sugar or sprinkles (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Cream the Butter & Sugar: Beat the softened butter and sugar in a large bowl until it’s light and fluffy — about 3–4 minutes. This step is the secret to the cookie’s melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2️⃣ Add Egg & Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
3️⃣ Mix in Flour & Salt: Gradually add flour and salt on low speed. Mix just until the dough comes together — don’t overmix.
4️⃣ Fill the Cookie Press: Spoon dough into your cookie press fitted with your favorite design disk. Press cookies directly onto an ungreased, unlined baking sheet.
5️⃣ Decorate: If you’d like, sprinkle with colored sugar or sprinkles before baking.
6️⃣ Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are just lightly golden. Don’t overbake — these cookies should stay pale and delicate.
7️⃣ Cool & Enjoy: Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Store in an airtight container.
Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Butter Cookies
Use Room Temp Butter: Softened, not melted — makes the dough easy to press.
Chill if Needed: If your dough is too soft, chill it for 10–15 mins to help it hold shape.
Unlined Sheets: Don’t use parchment here — the dough sticks better to bare baking sheets.
Get Creative: Add food coloring to dough or dip half in chocolate for a fun twist.
FAQs — Classic Spritz Cookie Recipe
1️⃣ Do I have to use a cookie press?
Yes! That’s what makes them “Spritz” cookies. No press? Try piping the dough with a sturdy piping bag and large tip.
2️⃣ Can I freeze Spritz cookie dough?
You can, but they’re best fresh. Freeze baked cookies instead — up to 2 months.
3️⃣ Why won’t my cookies stick to the baking sheet?
Make sure your baking sheet is unlined and ungreased — the raw dough sticks, then lifts easily when baked.
4️⃣ How do I store Spritz cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container for up to 1 week — they stay fresh and crisp!
5️⃣ Can I add different flavors?
Absolutely! Almond or lemon extract are classic variations.
6️⃣ Are Spritz cookies good for gifting?
They’re perfect — they stack well, stay pretty, and taste amazing even after a few days.
7️⃣ What jam or toppings can I add?
Sprinkle colored sugars before baking or drizzle with chocolate once cooled for extra flair.
Wrapping Up
If you’re craving that taste of old-fashioned holiday baking, this Classic Spritz Cookie Recipe is the way to go. Crisp, buttery, and beautifully shaped — just like Mom made them.
Did you grow up making Spritz cookies too? Share your favorite shapes, tips, or family twists in the comments below — I’d love to hear your cookie stories!
✅ Ready for a Pinterest Pin title, SEO meta description, or custom hashtags for this recipe? Just say, “Yes dost!” and I’ll make it for you!
Leave a Reply