Fruit-Filled Spritz Cookies
From the first time I baked these cookies, they've been a lip-smacking success. Old-fashioned and attractive, they make a perfect holiday pastry. I'm the grandmother of six and stay active with a German folk dance group.
From the first time I baked these cookies, they've been a lip-smacking success. Old-fashioned and attractive, they make a perfect holiday pastry. I'm the grandmother of six and stay active with a German folk dance group.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter softened
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- dough:
- 1/2 cup sugar
- confectioners' sugar optional
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 teaspoons grated orange zest
- 1 cup maraschino cherries chopped
- 2 teaspoons orange juice
- 1-1/2 cups chopped dates
- 1/2 cup ground nuts
- Carbohydrate 88.2220957813254 g
- Cholesterol 285.867857231696 mg
- Fat 51.2130319391525 g
- Fiber 4.49914288785436 g
- Protein 14.8611861997947 g
- Saturated Fat 28.7158145451742 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -1/2 dozen. (294g)
- Sodium 13232.5373214835 mg
- Sugar 83.722952893471 g
- Trans Fat 3.96203100263387 g
- Calories 864 calories
Step-by-step
- In a small saucepan, combine the first five ingredients; bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat; cook and stir for 8 minutes or until thickened. Cool completely.
- Stir in the cherries, coconut and nuts; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and extracts.
- Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.
- Using a cookie press fitted with a bar disk, press a 12-in.-long strip of dough onto an ungreased baking sheet.
- Spread fruit filling over dough.
- Press another strip over filling.
- Cut into 1-in. pieces (there is no need to separate the pieces).
- Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
- Bake at 375 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Recut into pieces if necessary.
- Remove to wire racks to cool.
- Dust with confectioners' sugar if desired.
My Favorite Holiday Tradition: Fruit-Filled Spritz Cookies
The aroma of warm spices and sweet fruit filling always fills my home during the holidays. It's a scent that instantly transports me back to simpler times, filled with family gatherings and the cozy warmth of tradition. For years, my family has gathered around the kitchen table, the counter dusted with powdered sugar, excitedly awaiting the delicious fruit-filled spritz cookies that are the star of our holiday baking. This isn't just any cookie recipe; it's a legacy passed down through generations, a cherished family heirloom.
The recipe itself is straightforward, yet the results are nothing short of magical. The delicate spritz cookies, pressed into neat little bars, are the perfect canvas for the vibrant, fruity filling. It's a combination of textures and tastes - the crisp, buttery cookie shell yielding to a burst of sweet, tart fruit and nuts. Each bite is a little moment of holiday cheer, a reminder of the warmth and love shared amongst my loved ones. Over the years, I’ve watched my grandchildren's eyes light up with excitement as they help me bake these cookies, patiently waiting for the golden-brown edges to appear in the oven. These cookies aren't just a treat; they're a tangible link to the past, a shared experience that creates lasting memories for us all. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to teach them the importance of family traditions and the simple joys of homemade treats.
The recipe has remained largely unchanged over the years, a testament to its perfection. However, I've added my own personal touches, experimenting with different types of nuts and fruits to add variety. The base recipe remains the same, a simple yet elegant combination of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. But the real magic lies in the filling, a delicious medley of chopped dates, maraschino cherries, coconut, and nuts, all brought together with a touch of orange zest and juice. This vibrant mix not only adds a burst of flavor but also a beautiful pop of color to the cookies, making them visually appealing as well.
But more than just a recipe, these cookies represent the heart of our family. It's a time for us to come together, to share laughter, stories, and of course, the delicious cookies we've created. Watching my grandchildren's faces as they carefully frost each cookie with powdered sugar is one of my favorite parts of the holiday season. It's a simple act, yet it embodies the spirit of togetherness and the joy of creating something special together. Each year, as I prepare this recipe, I’m reminded of the love and joy that have always surrounded this tradition. The recipe itself may be simple, but the memories and bonds it creates are priceless.
Beyond our family gatherings, these cookies have become a beloved part of our community. I often share them with neighbors and friends, spreading holiday cheer and the warmth of home-baked goodness. It's a small gesture, but one that seems to resonate deeply, creating connections and fostering a sense of community. The smiles on their faces as they take that first bite are as rewarding as the time spent baking them. And perhaps, they too, will pass down the recipe, creating their own cherished holiday traditions.
So, this holiday season, why not make your own batch of fruit-filled spritz cookies? It's more than just a recipe; it's an opportunity to create memories, share love, and build traditions that will last a lifetime. The simple act of baking and sharing these cookies is a powerful way to connect with family, friends, and community, enriching our lives in ways that extend far beyond the delicious taste. It's a gift that keeps on giving, year after year.
Beyond the Recipe: The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different fruits, nuts, and spices to create your own unique version. Substitute dried cranberries for cherries, add a sprinkle of cinnamon, or try different types of nuts to personalize the cookies to your taste. The possibilities are endless! And don't hesitate to involve your family and friends in the baking process. It's a wonderful way to share the joy of creating something special together. Making these cookies is more than just following instructions; it's about creating a heartwarming experience, a cherished family moment that will bring joy to your holiday season for years to come.
