Christmas Spritz Cookies

Holidays (for some at least) are times of relaxation. For my mom and I, however, holidays mean baking, baking, and more baking. I can remember some holiday seasons that involved baking anywhere from ten to fifteen different types of cookies just to give away as gifts. Through all the madness, this simple spritz cookie recipe has become one of my favorites as you can whip up a batch in about half an hour. Plus- they're ideal for any occasion!

Butter Spritz Cookies
1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cup all purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt


Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease two baking sheets. In an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar on medium speed until fluffy (for about two minutes). Add in the egg and vanilla extract and beat until fully incorporated. On a lower speed, gradually add the flour and salt until mixed.

Once the batter is mixed, add 2-3 drops of food dye in the bowl and lightly fold in until the batter looks like marble. Begin to scoop the batter into a cookie gun and start pressing. After pressing the cookies about 1 inch apart, sprinkle colored sugar crystals over the tops. 

Bake for about 6-9 minutes until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.