These Chocolate Spritz Cookies are the ultimate indulgence, combining the rich, buttery flavor of classic spritz cookies with the luxurious depth of cocoa. Shaped into festive designs and optionally dipped in smooth, melted chocolate, they’re both beautiful and delicious. Perfect for the holiday season, these cookies are as versatile as they are irresistible. Enjoy them as an afternoon treat with a warm cup of tea or coffee, or share the joy by gifting them in decorative tins to friends and family. With their stunning appearance and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these cookies are bound to impress!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (226 grams) butter, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ⅓ cups (282 grams) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate (optional for dipping)
- 1–2 tablespoons sprinkles (optional for decoration)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or use a non-stick baking sheet without a liner.
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), cream butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add salt, egg, and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, beating on low speed until a smooth dough forms.
- Transfer the dough into a cookie press fitted with your desired design and press cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each. Add sprinkles on top if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 7–9 minutes, or until the edges and bottoms are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, melt chocolate using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Dip cookies into the chocolate or drizzle on top, then add sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet. Allow chocolate to set before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 170 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
A Holiday Classic with a Twist
Chocolate Spritz Cookies are a delightful take on the traditional spritz cookie, combining the buttery richness of the classic recipe with the indulgent flavor of chocolate. Shaped into intricate and festive designs, these cookies are the embodiment of holiday cheer, making them a perfect addition to your seasonal celebrations. Whether dipped in melted chocolate, adorned with colorful sprinkles, or served plain, they bring a touch of elegance to any dessert table.
The Origin and Appeal of Spritz Cookies
Spritz cookies, originating from Scandinavian traditions, are a hallmark of the holiday season. Their name is derived from the German word “spritzen,” meaning “to squirt,” a reference to the method of shaping the dough using a cookie press. Chocolate Spritz Cookies elevate this classic recipe by incorporating cocoa powder, which enhances the flavor profile and adds a rich, chocolatey twist.
The appeal of these cookies lies not only in their taste but also in their versatility. They can be customized with a variety of flavors, shapes, and decorations to suit any occasion, making them a timeless favorite for bakers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chocolate Spritz Cookies are more than just a holiday treat; they’re an experience. The process of crafting these cookies from creaming the butter and sugar to pressing the dough into beautiful shapes is a joyful activity that brings people together. Children love participating in the decorating process, making it a perfect family bonding activity during the holiday season.
Beyond the fun of making them, these cookies are incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different toppings, such as crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, or edible glitter, to create a cookie that is uniquely yours. The addition of melted chocolate as a coating or drizzle takes these cookies to another level, adding an extra layer of decadence that is hard to resist.
Perfect for Gifting and Sharing
The festive appearance and rich flavor of Chocolate Spritz Cookies make them an excellent choice for gifting. Pack them in decorative tins or jars, and you have a thoughtful and delicious holiday gift. Their sturdy texture ensures they travel well, making them ideal for sharing with friends, family, and colleagues.
These cookies are also a great addition to holiday cookie exchanges. Their intricate designs and deep chocolate flavor make them a standout among other treats. Pair them with classic shortbread, gingerbread, or sugar cookies for a well-rounded holiday cookie platter.
The Role of Key Ingredients
The success of Chocolate Spritz Cookies lies in the balance of its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. The butter provides a rich, creamy base that enhances the flavor and ensures the cookies retain their shape during baking. Cocoa powder introduces a subtle yet irresistible chocolate note, while vanilla extract amplifies the overall flavor profile. Together, these ingredients create a cookie that is both flavorful and visually appealing.
For added flair, the cookies can be dipped in melted chocolate or sprinkled with festive toppings. The semi-sweet chocolate used for dipping complements the sweetness of the cookie, creating a harmonious balance that is neither too sweet nor too bitter.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chocolate Spritz Cookies
While the recipe itself is straightforward, a few tips can ensure success and elevate your cookies to bakery-quality perfection:
- Softened Butter is Key: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth dough. Cold butter can result in a crumbly texture, while overly softened or melted butter can lead to greasy cookies that lose their shape.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can activate the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Chill the Dough When Needed: If the dough becomes too soft while shaping, refrigerate it for 15–30 minutes to firm it up. This makes it easier to handle and ensures precise shapes when using a cookie press.
- Proper Cookie Press Usage: A cookie press is the secret to creating the intricate designs that make spritz cookies so special. Practice on a piece of parchment paper to get the hang of pressing evenly and releasing the dough cleanly.
- Decorate While Warm: If you’re adding sprinkles or decorations, do so immediately after pressing the cookies onto the baking sheet. The warmth of the dough helps the decorations adhere better.
Creative Variations to Try
One of the joys of making Chocolate Spritz Cookies is the opportunity to experiment with flavors and decorations. Here are some creative twists to consider:
- Mocha Spritz Cookies: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough for a coffee-flavored treat that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Nutty Chocolate Cookies: Mix finely chopped almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts into the dough for added texture and flavor.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Use melted white chocolate instead of dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a striking contrast in both flavor and appearance.
- Mint Chocolate Cookies: Add a drop of peppermint extract to the dough or use crushed candy canes as a topping for a festive twist.
- Fruit-Flavored Designs: Incorporate a swirl of raspberry or strawberry jam into the dough for a sweet and fruity surprise.
Conclusion:
Chocolate Spritz Cookies are a celebration of flavor, creativity, and tradition. Whether you’re making them as part of your holiday baking marathon, sharing them as gifts, or enjoying them with a warm beverage on a cozy winter evening, these cookies are sure to delight. Their rich chocolate flavor, tender texture, and festive designs make them a standout treat that embodies the joy of the season.