Yields: 6-8 dozen cookies (depending on size)

Prep time: 20 minutes

Chill time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended for stability)

Bake time: 8-10 minutes per batch

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but lovely!)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Green gel food coloring (if making Christmas trees)
• Assorted sprinkles, nonpareils, or sanding sugar for decorating

Equipment:

• Cookie press with desired discs (Christmas tree is perfect!)
• Baking sheets (no need to grease or line)

Instructions:

1. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
4. Gradually Add Dry to Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
5. Color the Dough (Optional): If making green Christmas trees, divide the dough in half. Add a few drops of green gel food coloring to one half and mix until the color is even. Leave the other half plain or color it another festive hue.
6. Load the Cookie Press: Load the dough into your cookie press fitted with the Christmas tree (or other desired) disc. Pack it in firmly to prevent air pockets.
7. Press Cookies: Press cookies onto ungreased and unlined baking sheets. Press down firmly, squeezing the trigger until the dough forms the desired shape, then lift straight up. Leave a little space between cookies.
8. Decorate: Immediately sprinkle with your favorite festive sprinkles or sanding sugar.
9. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Cookies should be set but still appear pale in the center.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

These classic Christmas Tree Spritz Cookies are not just delicious; they’re a truly fun activity that creates beautiful, edible memories. Which festive shape will you press first? Happy baking!