Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies
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Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a touch of nostalgia to any gathering. These tender, buttery cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Each bite is bursting with a creamy richness from the cream cheese and a hint of citrus zest that elevates their taste. Whether you whip them up for a holiday cookie exchange, bake them as a fun weekend project with the kids, or serve them at a festive family gathering, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There’s so much to adore about Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies. For starters, they’re budget-friendly and require ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The best part? They’re quick to prepare, making them a perfect choice for unexpected guests or holiday traditions. Kids especially love these cookies — they can help with decorating, allowing for some fun family time in the kitchen.
"These Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies are a hit at every party! They are soft, flavorful, and so fun to decorate. My kids can’t get enough of them!" — Happy Baker
Step-by-Step Overview
Making Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies is a breeze! This recipe involves a few simple steps that come together quite quickly. You’ll start by creaming together the shortening, cream cheese, and sugar for the base flavor. Then, mix in the egg and vanilla before incorporating the dry ingredients. Once your dough is ready, it’s all about the fun of using a cookie press to create delightful shapes! Decorate them any way you like, and bake until they are just set. Here’s how to get started.
What You’ll Need
To create these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup shortening
- 3 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
- Colored sugar, sprinkles, red hots, jimmies for decoration
Feel free to experiment with other extracts or flavorings in place of vanilla for a unique twist!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (177ºC).
- In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream together the shortening, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolk and vanilla, mixing well until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to your creamed ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
- Stir in the finely grated orange zest for a burst of flavor.
- Spoon your dough into a cookie press fitted with the disk of your choice. Press the dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Decorate with colored sugar, sprinkles, red hots, or jimmies as desired.
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are just set.
- Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Repeat with any remaining dough.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of beverages. They complement a hot cup of tea or coffee beautifully. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a platter of holiday treats, or create a themed dessert table for special occasions. Their colorful decorations make them perfect for celebrations!
How to Store & Freeze
To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week, making them perfect for make-ahead treats. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the baked cookies. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped in plastic wrap or a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened for easy blending.
- Experiment with different cookie press disks to create various shapes for different occasions.
- Chill the dough for 15-30 minutes if it’s too soft to handle.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or almond extract!
Creative Twists
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies! Here are a few variations to consider:
- Swap out the orange zest for lemon or lime for a different citrus kick.
- Use flavored extracts like almond or peppermint in place of vanilla.
- Get festive with holiday-themed sprinkles or colored sugars that match the season.
Your Questions Answered
-
What is the prep time for these cookies?
The total prep time, including baking, is about 30-40 minutes. -
Can I substitute the shortening?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use butter or a butter substitute for a different flavor profile. -
How should I store the cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness, or freeze them for longer storage. -
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
Try these Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies for a delightful treat that combines ease with elegance — perfect for any occasion!
Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (177ºC).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the shortening, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolk and vanilla, mixing well until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to your creamed ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
- Stir in the finely grated orange zest for a burst of flavor.
- Spoon your dough into a cookie press fitted with the disk of your choice. Press the dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Decorate with colored sugar, sprinkles, red hots, or jimmies as desired.
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are just set.
- Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
