ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Spritzgebäck

Spritzgebäck is a type of cookie that is very popular in German-speaking countries like Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. It's a simple, buttery cookie that is made by pressing a soft dough through a special pastry bag or cookie press.

Think of it like playing with Play-Doh! You put the dough in the press and squeeze it out through a nozzle to make different shapes, like little swirls or stars or even letters. Then you bake them in the oven until they're golden brown and crispy on the outside, but still soft and buttery on the inside.

The word "spritz" comes from the German word "spritzen", which means to squirt or to spray. That's because you're squirting the dough out of the pastry bag or cookie press to make the cookie shapes.

Spritzgebäck cookies are often enjoyed during the holiday season, especially around Christmas time. They're perfect to have with a cup of hot cocoa or tea, and they also make great gifts for friends and family. So if you're feeling creative and want to make some fun shapes with your cookie dough, give spritzgebäck a try!