Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
Special equipment needed:
- Cookie press
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg yolk and almond extract, and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped almonds.
7. Fill the cookie press with the dough, and press the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
- Makes about 4 dozen cookies
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 90 per cookie
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but omit the salt in the recipe.
- Vanilla extract can be used instead of almond extract.
- Finely chopped pecans or walnuts can be used instead of almonds.
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dough for chocolate almond spritz cookies.
- Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
- Use a star-shaped cookie press for a festive look.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with the sugar.
- Don't overmix the dough, or the cookies will be tough.
- If the dough becomes too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before using the cookie press.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Storage instructions:
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
- These cookies are best served at room temperature and do not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the cookies on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
- Serve the cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle the cookies with chopped almonds or chocolate shavings.
Pairings:
- Serve the cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea.
Suggested side dishes:
- These cookies are a sweet treat on their own and do not need a side dish.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to moisten it.
- If the cookies spread too much during baking, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before using the cookie press.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean hands and utensils when preparing the dough.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming stale.
Food history:
- Spritz cookies originated in Germany and are a popular Christmas cookie in many European countries.
Flavor profiles:
- These cookies have a buttery, almond flavor and a crisp texture.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve these cookies as a sweet treat with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee.
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Region: German