Oh my gosh, these cookies smell just like fall! Warm spice, buttery bites… it’s like a cozy hug. I always feel happy baking them when the leaves start to fall.

The cinnamon and nutmeg? Yep, they make your kitchen smell amazing. I love how the spritz cookies melt in your mouth but still have a little snap. They’re cute too—so fun to press into shapes!

I started making these with my grandma, and now I make them every year. They’re perfect for sharing… or keeping all to myself (no shame!). Trust me, once you try one, you’ll need another.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Festive: The cookie press makes shaping these cookies effortless, creating stunning, bakery-style treats in minutes.
• Warm Fall Flavors: A perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gives these cookies a rich, autumnal essence.
• Light and Buttery: These cookies have a delicate, crisp texture that pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or hot cider.
• Customizable: Decorate with colored sugar, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of chocolate to make them extra special.
• Great for Gifting: A delicious homemade treat to share with family, friends, or at fall-themed parties.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large Mixing Bowl – For combining the ingredients.
• Electric Mixer – A hand or stand mixer will help cream the butter and sugar properly.
• Cookie Press – Essential for creating the signature spritz cookie shapes.
• Baking Sheets – Use light-colored, non-stick sheets for even baking.
• Wire Cooling Rack – Helps the cookies cool evenly and prevents sogginess.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these flavorful cookies (exact measurements in the recipe card below):

• Unsalted Butter – Softened for a smooth, buttery texture.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure.
• Egg – Binds the dough together for a crisp yet tender cookie.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
• Almond Extract – Adds a subtle nuttiness that pairs well with warm spices.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star spice of fall, adding warmth and depth.
• Ground Nutmeg – Contributes a rich, slightly sweet flavor.
• Ground Cloves – Brings a deep, aromatic spice to the mix.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Colored Sugar or Sprinkles – For festive decoration.

Variations for Autumn Spice Spritz Cookies

• Pumpkin Spice Infusion: Swap nutmeg and cloves with 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice blend.
• Maple Flavoring: Substitute almond extract with maple extract for a rich, maple-kissed taste.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle with melted white or dark chocolate.
• Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a crunchy texture.
• Glazed Finish: Mix powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla extract for a sweet glaze.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare ungreased baking sheets. Spritz cookies bake best on ungreased sheets to help them hold their shape.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Add the Egg and Extracts

Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully combined.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, beating on low speed until a soft dough forms.

5. Load the Cookie Press

Fill the cookie press with dough according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Choose your favorite disk shape for autumn-themed cookies.

6. Press the Cookies

Press cookies onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Sprinkle with colored sugar or sprinkles if desired.

7. Bake the Cookies

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as spritz cookies are delicate.

8. Cool and Serve

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Autumn Spice Spritz Cookies

These cookies are perfect for any fall occasion:

• With Coffee or Tea: Their light, spiced flavor pairs beautifully with warm beverages.
• In Holiday Cookie Platters: A festive addition to Thanksgiving or Halloween treat assortments.
• As Gifts: Pack them in decorative tins or mason jars for a homemade holiday gift.
• Dipped in Chocolate: Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate and let it set for a fancy touch.

Storing Autumn Spice Spritz Cookies

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Dough Storage: The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days before pressing and baking.

Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	85
Carbohydrates	10g
Protein	1g
Fat	5g
Sugar	4g
Fiber	0g
Sodium	30mg

Autumn Spice Spritz Cookies FAQs

Can I make these without a cookie press?

Yes! You can roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly with a fork or use a piping bag with a large star tip.

Can I substitute almond extract?

Absolutely! Swap it with maple, rum, or extra vanilla extract.

Why didn’t my cookies hold their shape?

Ensure your baking sheets are ungreased and that the dough is not too warm before pressing.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just be sure to divide the dough into batches so it’s easier to handle in the cookie press.

Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful Autumn Spice Spritz Cookies!