Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies

Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic spritz cookie, made even richer and more flavorful with the addition of cream cheese. These cookies are buttery and tender, with a subtle tanginess that perfectly complements the sweet vanilla flavor. Perfect for holiday baking or any occasion, they are easy to make and fun to shape using a cookie press. The dough holds its shape beautifully, allowing for intricate and festive designs. Whether you enjoy them plain or decorated with colorful sprinkles, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened 3 oz cream cheese, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 1 large egg yolk 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional) 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp salt Sprinkles or colored sugar for decorating (optional) Instructions: Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or leave them ungreased if you prefer. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Add Sugar and Egg Yolk: Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is creamy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until well combined. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix. Prepare the Dough: Fill a cookie press with the dough, and press the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. If desired, decorate with sprinkles or colored sugar. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are just starting to turn golden. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container. Enjoy your Cream Cheese Spritz Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee, or share them with loved ones for a sweet treat!