Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic spritz cookie, made even richer and more flavorful with the addition of cream cheese. These cookies are buttery and tender, with a subtle tanginess that perfectly complements the sweet vanilla flavor. Perfect for holiday baking or any occasion, they are easy to make and fun to shape using a cookie press. The dough holds its shape beautifully, allowing for intricate and festive designs. Whether you enjoy them plain or decorated with colorful sprinkles, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Sprinkles or colored sugar for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or leave them ungreased if you prefer.
- Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Egg Yolk: Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is creamy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Prepare the Dough: Fill a cookie press with the dough, and press the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. If desired, decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are just starting to turn golden. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.
Enjoy your Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, or share them with loved ones for a sweet treat!
