Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies are Austrian sandwich cookies made with spiced, almond enriched dough. They consist of two cookies, one solid, one with a cut-out center, sandwiched with jam (usually raspberry or red currant).

The colorful filling shows through the top cookie’s window, and they’re often dusted with powdered sugar.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 150
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 50mg

Why I Love This Linzer Cookies

Linzer cookies hold a special place in my heart, reminiscent of cozy kitchen afternoons filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats.

These delightful cookies combine a buttery texture with the nutty richness of ground almonds.

The addition of jam not only brings a burst of fruity sweetness but also gives them that classic Linzer charm.

Whether you’re sharing them during holidays or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are a labor of love that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup ground almonds (or hazelnuts)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Raspberry or apricot jam for filling
Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Linzer Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and perfectly golden.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes and sets the foundation for a luscious cookie.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and creamy, with a wonderful vanilla aroma.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, cinnamon, and salt. Stir them together to blend the flavors.

Step 5: Mix the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined. The dough might be a bit crumbly at first but will come together beautifully.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, remembering to cut holes in the center of half of them for the tops.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial to prevent the jam from melting when you assemble them.

Step 9: Assemble with Jam

Spread a generous layer of raspberry or apricot jam on the whole cookies and carefully place the cut-out tops on them.

Step 10: Dust with Powdered Sugar

Before serving, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a delightful finish that adds sweetness and a charming touch.

Tips & Variations

• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to roll, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes rolling and cutting much easier!
• Serving Suggestions: These cookies look lovely arranged on a decorative plate. Add some fresh berries for color and serve alongside a pot of tea or coffee.
• Dietary Modifications: For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. You can also experiment with different nuts based on your preference.
• Jam Choices: Other fruit preserves like strawberry or lemon curd can be delightful alternatives to traditional raspberry or apricot jams.

Delicious Variations

• Peanut Butter Blossoms: Soft peanut butter cookies topped with chocolate kisses for a different take on a classic.
• Sablé Cookies: French butter cookies that melt in your mouth, perfect for pairing with fruit jams or fillings.
• Almond Joy Cookies: Chewy coconut cookies with chunks of chocolate and almonds for a tropical twist.
• Nut Butter Sandwich Cookies: A variety of nut butter cookies filled with your favorite spread for a satisfying treat.

Serving Suggestions for Linzer Cookies

These Linzer cookies shine when served at room temperature, allowing their buttery texture to be fully appreciated.

They make for a delightful afternoon treat, especially paired with a warm beverage like chai tea or coffee.

For an added touch, present them in a beautiful tin as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

Storage and Leftovers

Store your Linzer cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for about two weeks.

To freeze, place the filled cookies between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container, where they’ll stay fresh for up to three months.

Just remember to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Helpful Questions

1. Can I use another type of nut instead of almonds?
   Yes! Hazelnuts and walnuts work well as substitutes.

2. What if I can’t find raspberry or apricot jam?
   Feel free to use any fruit preserve or even lemon curd for a tangy twist!

3. How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
   They should be lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary.

4. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely! Just make sure you have enough space in your oven and adequate baking sheets.

5. What’s the best way to get clean cuts on cookie shapes?
   Make sure your cookie cutter is floured, and if the dough sticks, you can chill it before cutting for cleaner edges.

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