MomSkoop
Holiday baking season brings out the cookie maker in all of us, but not every cookie press can handle Grandma’s treasured recipes. Some tools crumble under pressure while others create perfect spritz cookies that would make any baker proud. After testing multiple cookie presses with traditional dough recipes, we found clear winners and disappointing losers.
1. OXO Good Grips Cookie Press Set – The Reliable Champion
Professional bakers swear by this press because it never lets them down during busy holiday seasons. The comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue even when making dozens of cookies.
Twelve different discs create everything from stars to flowers with crisp, clean edges. The clear barrel shows exactly how much dough remains, preventing messy surprises mid-batch.
Cleanup takes minutes thanks to dishwasher-safe parts that separate easily. This press handles thick dough without jamming, making it perfect for traditional butter cookie recipes that challenge lesser tools.
2. Marcato Atlas Biscuit Maker Cookie Press – Italian Precision
Crafted in Italy with the same attention to detail as their famous pasta machines, this press brings European elegance to American kitchens. The all-metal construction feels substantial and durable in your hands.
Twenty decorative plates offer more variety than most competitors, creating intricate designs that impress guests. The smooth plunger action requires minimal effort while delivering consistent results.
Restaurant-quality construction means this tool will outlast cheaper alternatives by years. The investment pays off when you taste the perfectly uniform cookies it produces batch after batch.
3. Fante’s Easy Cookie Press – Old-School Charm
Family-owned Fante’s has been making kitchen tools since 1906, and their experience shows in every detail of this classic press. The simple design eliminates unnecessary complications that plague modern alternatives.
Eight traditional discs create timeless shapes that never go out of style. The moderate price point makes it accessible for home bakers who want quality without breaking the bank.
Built to last decades like the original models our grandmothers used, this press embodies reliability over flashy features. Sometimes the old ways really are the best ways for creating perfect cookies.
4. Kuhn Rikon Clear Cookie Press & Storage Box – Convenient Storage
Organized bakers appreciate the built-in storage system that keeps all pieces together between baking sessions. No more hunting through drawers for missing discs when cookie cravings strike.
The transparent design lets you monitor dough consistency and air bubbles that might affect cookie quality. Six decorative plates cover basic shapes for everyday baking needs.
While functional for occasional use, the plastic construction feels less durable than metal alternatives. The reasonable price makes it suitable for beginners or infrequent bakers who prioritize convenience over heavy-duty performance.
5. Wilton Simple Success Cookie Press – Beginner-Friendly
Designed specifically for nervous first-time users, this press includes detailed instructions and foolproof recipes that guarantee success. The ergonomic handle reduces the learning curve significantly.
Pre-marked measurements on the barrel help portion dough correctly for consistent results. Twelve discs provide good variety for experimenting with different designs and techniques.
However, the lightweight construction struggles with stiffer dough recipes that work fine in sturdier presses. Best suited for softer dough formulations and bakers who prioritize ease over versatility in their cookie-making adventures.
6. Hutzler Easy Action Cookie Press – Budget Option
Bargain hunters might be tempted by the low price, but this press demonstrates why quality costs more. The flimsy trigger mechanism breaks easily under normal use conditions.
Inconsistent dough flow creates uneven cookies that look homemade in the worst way possible. The limited disc selection restricts creative possibilities for adventurous bakers.
While it technically functions for light occasional use, frequent bakers will quickly outgrow its limitations. Save your money for a better press that will actually help create cookies worthy of sharing with family and friends.
7. Generic Plastic Cookie Press – Skip This Disappointment
Cheap imitations flood the market during holiday seasons, promising professional results at bargain prices. Unfortunately, these knockoffs deliver frustration instead of beautiful cookies that make baking worthwhile.
Weak plastic components crack under pressure, literally leaving you with broken tools mid-recipe. Poor disc quality creates ragged edges that make cookies look amateurish rather than impressive.
The false economy becomes apparent when you need to buy replacement tools after just a few uses. Invest in quality from the start rather than learning this expensive lesson the hard way during important baking occasions.