The 4 Best Cookie Presses of 2024
By Maria Lichty
Updated January 02, 2024
I absolutely LOVE making LOTS of cookies every holiday season. Spritz cookies are a classic and always impress my family and friends. Not only are these buttery cookies delicious, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make. With one of the best cookie presses, you can quickly make a batch of these treats in festive shapes like trees, wreaths, ornaments, and more.
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A good spritz cookie press is the KEY to making these seasonal cookies, but some models are definitely easier to use than others.
Below, I’ve listed out the best cookie presses so you can make endless batches of tasty holiday cookies this year.
Our Top Picks
- Classic: Wilton Preferred Cookie Press – $25.69 at Amazon
- What’s in My Kitchen: OXO Good Grips Cookie Press – $33.99 at Amazon
- Best with Storage: Kukn Rikon Clear Cookie Press – $40.11 at Amazon
- Best Metal: Marcato Atlas Deluxe Cookie Press – $49.95 at Amazon
Reviews of The Best Cookie Presses
1.Wilton Preferred Cookie Press
Credit: Amazon
Whenever I make spritz cookies, I reach for my Wilton Preferred Cookie Press. This inexpensive gadget always creates consistently perfect cookie shapes, and I LOVE its ergonomic and comfortable design. The trigger has a soft-coated grip, making it easy to press again and again (this is especially important since you’ll be using the press for EVERY cookie you make!). It’s so easy to use that even my kids can do it!
This cookie press has a metal base and plastic tube, and it comes with 12 disc shapes, including popular forms like a Christmas tree, wreath, snowman, pumpkin, turkey, heart, and more. I love that you’re not limited to holiday designs and can use different cute discs year-round. Wilton even sells additional cookie discs that fit this press perfectly for even more fun shapes.
The Specs:
- Dimensions: 8.75 x 11 x 2.6 inches
- Body Material: Metal and plastic
- Disc Material: Metal
- Discs: 12
The Pros:
- Easy to use
- Durable metal body
- Ergonomic trigger
- Clear dough barrel
The Cons:
- Hand wash only
- No disc storage
What Others are Saying:
Buy the Wilton Preferred Cookie Press:
2.OXO Good Grips Cookie Press
Credit: Wayfair
I’m a big fan of OXO Good Grips, and the brand’s cookie press seems just as easy to use as their other products. It works a bit differently than other presses — you actually rest the base directly on your baking sheet, then press down on the non-slip lever. The plunger will push out the perfect amount of dough, leaving behind a beautifully shaped cookie. It’s THAT easy!
This cookie press has 12 discs, including a snowflake, wreath, heart, tree, bear, sunflower, and more. It also has a handy disc storage case, while the barrel, discs, and base are all dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
The Specs:
- Dimensions: 9 x 5.5 inches
- Body Material: Plastic
- Disc Material: Metal
- Discs: 12
The Pros:
- Fast, even results
- Non-slip lever and base
- Dishwasher-safe pieces
- Includes disc storage case
The Cons:
- May produce small cookies
What Others are Saying:
Buy the OXO Good Grips Cookie Press:
3.Kuhn Rikon Clear Cookie Press
Credit: Amazon
If you like to keep your baking supplies organized, the Kuhn Rikon Cookie Press is PERFECT. It comes with a handy storage case that holds both the cookie press gun and its attachments.
You’ll also get 14 different discs for fun designs, including a variety of seasonal designs and a cheese straw disc. The set also comes with six piping tips that you can use for frosting desserts, as well as a variety of recipes for different spritz cookie flavors.
This cookie press has a more basic design that you can operate with just one hand, making it a good pick for beginners. Just know that the barrel is a bit narrow, so you may have to refill it with dough more often.
The Specs:
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 2.75 inches
- Body Material: Plastic and metal
- Disc Material: Metal
- Discs: 16 + 6 piping tips
The Pros:
- One-handed operation
- Handy storage case
- Includes piping tips
- Cheese straw disc
The Cons:
- Hand wash recommended
- Narrow barrel
What Others are Saying:
Food & Wine named this model as the best cookie press with storage.
Buy the Kuhn Rikon Clear Cookie Press:
4.Marcato Atlas Deluxe Cookie Press
Credit: Amazon
If you make spritz cookies ALL year long, the Marcato Atlas Deluxe Cookie Press has a durable all-metal design that can stand up to near-daily use. The whole press is made from aluminum, which is much sturdier than plastic. The brand even offers a 10-year warranty on it.
With this cookie press, you’ll get a whopping 20 different discs, offering you much more variety than other options on my list. It includes everything from trees and wreaths to hearts and shells, but it doesn’t come with a place to store it. I also LOVE the fun pink color it comes in, which is so cute!
The Specs:
- Dimensions: 7.28 x 2.36 x 10.63 inches
- Body Material: Aluminum
- Disc Material: Aluminum
- Discs: 20
The Pros:
- Durable metal construction
- Several colors available
- Includes lots of discs
- 10-year warranty
The Cons:
- Hand wash only
- No disc storage
- Not everyone will love the pink hue
What Others are Saying:
Buy the Marcato Atlas Deluxe Biscuit Maker Cookie Press:
Other Cookie Presses to Consider
King Arthur Spritz Cookie Press
King Arthur is another baking brand that I know and love. The spritz cookie press is made in Italy and constructed from durable metal. It comes with 20 cookie discs, and you can even adjust the knob at the top to change the cookie size. While it’s a good option, it’s a bit pricey when compared to similar metal models like the one from Marcato. The King Arthur Spritz Cookie Press is available at King Arthur for $99.95 .
De Buyer Le Tube Pastry Press
Fante’s Easy Cookie Press
Cuisinart CCP-10 Electric Cookie Press
Masterclass Professional Icing Set
Why You Can Trust Me
Credit: Two Peas and Their Pod
I am a self-proclaimed COOKIE MONSTER — in fact, I typically make them at least a few times a week! I’ve spent so much time baking all sorts of cookies, from classic Chocolate Chip Cookies to unique recipes like Oatmeal Zucchini Cookies , that I actually wrote a whole cookbook on them, which you can order NOW.
After baking thousands of cookies in my career, I have a good idea of what works and what doesn’t. I have a lot of opinions about what baking tools deserve a spot in your kitchen, with cookie presses being a handy device for the yummiest spritz cookies.
To find the best cookie press, I thought about what I liked in my Wilton cookie press. From there, I looked at a TON of popular options online from other brands that are recommended by cooking publications and customers.
Everything to Know Before Buying a Cookie Press
What to Consider Before Buying a Cookie Press
Cookie presses are fairly simple devices, but there are a few features you may want to consider as you shop.
Size and Material : These presses are often made from plastic, which is lightweight and inexpensive, but if you make cookies often, you may want to spend a little extra on an all-metal press, which will be more durable. Make sure to read through customer reviews to see if people had to toss the cookie press after a few uses, or if they’ve been using it for years.
Attachments : The other key feature to look for in a cookie press is its attachments. Most models come with 12 or more cookie discs, but they don’t always include the same set of shapes. If you want to make specific cookies, such as candy canes or reindeer, double-check that the press comes with the shape you want!
Although spritz cookies are trendy for the holiday season, you can definitely make them year-round. Some options on my list include discs with other fun designs, so if you want to get the most bang for your buck by using it throughout all seasons, check out what shapes are included.
Storage : Because of the included discs, storing your cookie press can be tricky. If organization is a top priority, you can look for an option that comes with a sleeve or storage for the cookie gun and the discs. Otherwise, you may be stuck looking for that one Christmas tree design just a few days before the holiday.
How Do You Use a Cookie Press?
To make spritz cookies, start by loading the desired disc into your cookie press with the smooth side facing out. Roll room-temperature cookie dough into a log shape, then load it into the barrel of your press. After inserting the plunger and screwing on the lid, you’ll want to press the trigger a few times to push the dough toward the bottom of the barrel.
From here, it’s quick and easy to dispense cookies. Hold the press upright with the bottom resting on an ungreased cookie sheet. Squeeze the trigger to form a cookie, then lift up the press to release it onto the baking sheet. Just like that, you’ll have a spritz cookie. Repeat the process until your baking sheet is full, then put them in the oven to bake.
Can You Make Spritz Cookies Without a Cookie Press?
It’s definitely possible to make spritz cookies without a cookie press. Using a pastry bag fitted with a large star piping tip , you may be able to recreate some of the classic cookie shapes like wreaths and cheese straws. This method is a bit more labor intensive, and the results probably won’t be as consistent, so I recommend getting one of the cookie presses on this list!
Can You Use Sugar Cookie Dough in a Cookie Press?
Sugar cookie dough is generally too thick to be pushed through a cookie press. These tools are specifically designed to be used with spritz cookie dough, which is softer. In general, I don’t recommend putting other types of cookie dough into your cookie press, since you could break.
Why Won’t My Spritz Cookies Won’t Release from the Press?
The key to beautifully formed spritz cookies is having the dough at the proper temperature. If the dough is too thick or cold, you’ll have a hard time pushing it through the disc. On the other hand, if your dough is too warm, it will likely stick to the bottom of the press. Always follow the recipe directions for the cookie you’re making. It’s also important to dispense your dough directly onto a nonstick baking sheet — not onto parchment paper or a silicone mat — so the cookies have something to stick to.
The Best Cookie Recipes
Credit: Two Peas and Their Pod
Spritz cookies are one of my favorites to make during the holidays, and that’s typically when my cookie press gets the most use. But there are plenty of other festive holiday cookies that you can make without a cookie press.
Here are some of my favorite cookie recipes for the winter season and beyond!
- Chocolate Kiss Cookies
- Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Snickerdoodle Cookies
- Easy Sugar Cookies
- Mexican Wedding Cookies
- Andes Mint Cookies
- Thumbprint Cookies
Find MORE cookie recipes HERE and in my cookie cookbook, Let’s Eat Cookies !
Prices were accurate at time of publication.
Thumbprint Cookies
By Maria Lichty
Published on December 06, 2022
Quick Summary
Thumbprint Cookies-buttery shortbread cookies rolled in sugar and filled with sweet raspberry jam! These beautiful little cookies are a classic Christmas cookie, but can be enjoyed anytime of the year.
I love creating new cookie recipes , but I also love the classics. One of our favorite cookies to make at Christmas time are Thumbprint Cookies . They are a holiday favorite and a great addition to any cookie platter.
So what are Thumbprint Cookies? If you haven’t had a jam thumbprint, you are in for a real treat! They are buttery, tender shortbread cookies with a sweet jam center. I like to use raspberry jam because it is sweet, tart, and I love the deep red color. But you can fill the thumbprints with your favorite jam!
They cookies are simple, but elegant and super delicious. You can’t go wrong with a classic!
- Cookie Ingredients
- How to Make Thumbprint Cookies
- How to Store Thumbprint Cookies
- How to Freeze Thumbprint Cookies
- Thumbprint Cookie FAQ
- More Christmas Cookie Recipes
- Jam Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Cookie Ingredients
Simple ingredients come together to make the most amazing cookies!
- Flour – use all-purpose flour!
- Salt – to bring flavor to the cookies.
- Butter – Use unsalted butter and make sure it isn’t too soft or melted. You want the butter at cool room temperature.
- Sugar – you will need granulated sugar for the cookie dough and for rolling the cookies before baking.
- Brown sugar – I like to use a little brown sugar for flavor and to keep the cookies tender and not dry.
- Egg yolk – an egg yolk creates a rich cookie and holds everything together.
- Vanilla extract – a must! If you like almond extract, you can add ¼ teaspoon to the dough.
- Jam – I prefer raspberry jam, but any flavor will do! Make sure you use a nice, thick jam! Splurge to get a good quality jam since it’s a big part of the cookie! If your jam is SUPER thick, you can put it in a bowl and give it a good stir. If it is still too thick, heat it in the microwave for just a few seconds to loosen it up.
How to Make Thumbprint Cookies
These little gems are easy to make and SO pretty!
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Set aside.
- Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat the butter and sugars together. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula, as necessary. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients and mix on low until just combined. Don’t over mix the dough!
- Roll the dough into balls, about 1 ½ teaspoons per cookie. Place the remaining ½ cup sugar in a small bowl. Roll the balls in the sugar until well coated.
- Place on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper or a Silpat baking mat, you may need 2 sheets.
- Use the rounded back of a teaspoon or your thumb to gently press an indentation in the center each cookie dough ball. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven so it is hot and ready to go!
- Fill a small zipper-lock bag with the jam. Use scissors to snip a small corner off the bag. Carefully fill each indentation with about a ½ teaspoon of jam. Alternatively, you can use a small spoon or teaspoon to fill the centers with jam. Don’t over fill or the jam will ooze out in the oven. Less is best!
- Make sure the cookies are 2-inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake one pan at a time, for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are light golden brown.
How to Store Thumbprint Cookies
Store the cooled thumbprint cookies in an airtight container at room temperature on the counter. You don’t have to refrigerate the cookies. I don’t recommend stacking the cookies because of the jam.
These cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
How to Freeze Thumbprint Cookies
If you want to freeze cookies, I recommend freezing the unbaked cookies before adding jam.
Make the cookie dough and form them into thumbprints. Place the cookies on a tray and freeze until firm, about 30 minutes to an hour. Once frozen, transfer the the unbaked cookies to a freezer container or freezer bag and freeze for up to one month.
When ready to bake, preheat the oven and arrange the cookies on the baking sheets. Fill with jam and bake. It’s ok if the cookies are still a little frozen when going into the oven, you might have to add an additional minute to the baking time.
Make sure you use a thick jam and not a runny jam. I prefer raspberry jam, but strawberry, blackberry, apricot, or mixed berry are all good options. Use your favorite flavor.
Yes! If you don’t care for jam, fill the cookies with melted chocolate, lemon curd, salted caramel sauce, marmalade, or Nutella.
Fill the cookies with jam before baking so it can set up in the oven.
Make sure when you are pressing the back of the teaspoon or your thumb into the center of the cookie dough you don’t press too hard. Gently press! If the edges of the cookie start to crack a little, you can gently press it back together.
Make sure your butter isn’t too soft when making the dough. It should be at cool room temperature and not super soft or greasy. Also, don’t make your cookies too big, thumbprints are smaller cookies. And most importantly, make sure you you chill the dough! After you form the cookies, place the unbaked cookies in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will prevent them from spreading.
Yes! I recommend freezing the unbaked cookies before you fill them with jam. See above for my tips!
More Christmas Cookie Recipes
- Easy Sugar Cookies
- Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Andes Mint Cookies
- Snickerdoodles
- Chocolate Kiss Cookies
- Mexican Wedding Cookies
Cookies
Jam Thumbprint Cookies
Equipment
- Baking Sheets (I love these cookie sheets !)
- Stand Mixer (I’m obsessed with my KitchenAid)
- Silpat Baking Mat (these prevent cookies from sticking)
Ingredients1x2x3x
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup thick raspberry jam, or jam of your choice
Instructions
- In a medium bowl , whisk together the flour and salt. Set aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter for 1 minute on medium speed. Add ½ cup of the granulated sugar and brown sugar and mix until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula, as necessary. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredients and mix on low until just combined.
- Roll the dough into balls, about 1 ½ teaspoons per cookie. Place the remaining ½ cup sugar in a small bowl. Roll the balls in the sugar until well coated.
- Place on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper or a Silpat baking mat , you may need 2 sheets.
- Use the rounded back of a teaspoon or your thumb to gently press an indentation in the center each cookie dough ball. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Fill a small zipper-lock bag with the jam. Use scissors to snip a small corner off the bag. Carefully fill each indentation with about a ½ teaspoon of jam. Don’t over fill or the jam will ooze out in the oven. Less is best!
- Make sure the cookies are 2-inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake one pan at a time, for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are light golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Have you tried this recipe?
