Spritzgebäck
Also Known As: Spritz cookies
Cookie jars in Germany never fail to have Spritzgebäck (Spritz Cookies) during Christmas. They are made from butter, sugar, vanilla sugar, and depending on the recipe, baking powder and eggs. Variations may also include additional ingredients, such as ground nuts (hazelnuts or almonds), coconut, Marzipan, cinnamon or Lebkuchen seasonings, cocoa powder, orange zest, or rum.
To shape the Spritz Cookies, typically either a cookie press or piping bag is used. In Germany, there is a special meat grinder with a Spritz cookie attachment. This of course works the best, but these are not readily available here in the U.S.
Cookie Press
For a firm cookie dough, it is best to use a cookie press. A cookie press will allow you to create a large variety of shapes.
Piping Bag
For a very soft dough, a piping bag will do well. To help your cookies keep their shape during baking, it is best to refrigerate your formed cookies before baking.
Main Ingredients
Main ingredients are flour, butter, sugar. Some recipes include ground nuts or coconut. May be decorated with melted chocolate or white chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
When stored in an air-tight container, these cookies last for almost 4 weeks.
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