‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house…was the smell of delicious treats baking, simmering, and roasting for tomorrow’s big day. Making holiday cookies is a tradition all over the world, and for years, we’ve used cookie cutters to create edible trees, men, stars, and hearts. But doing things the analog way is SO 20th century, so some clever designers decided to give the Christmas cookie a digital upgrade.

Designer Ralf Holleis and his students recently unveiled their holiday gift to the world: 3D-printing technology that can be used to whip up a batch of intricately-designed, perfectly-shaped sweet snacks in a jiffy.

Image via Ralf Holleis

Did you think that futuristic shoes, houses, and personal electronics represent the entire scope of 3D printing capabilities? Well, think again. It was only a matter of time before someone started experimenting with 3D food, and although you might not want to print a steak, simple baked goods could be the perfect way to test the waters.

First, Holleis’ machine was programmed to create spiral and ring shaped cookies using a 3D imaging program. Then the machine’s extruder is loaded up with pre-made cookie dough, instead of the usual plastic. Once the machine is fired up, it squeezes out cookie dough into the perfect shapes. When it’s done, the tray is popped into the oven for a quick bake and then the cookies can be decorated or just devoured.

Watch the action below, and Happy Holidays to you and yours!