Linzer cookies are a timeless holiday favorite that bring charm and flavor to any festive occasion. Originating from the Austrian Linzer Torte, these delicate cookies feature buttery, nutty shortbread sandwiched together with a layer of sweet jam. This Linzer cookies recipe is perfect for special occasions or gifting, offering a beautiful presentation and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Linzer Cookies: A Festive Delight
With their intricate cutouts, dusting of powdered sugar, and vibrant jam centers, Linzer cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious. Traditionally made with almond flour for a nutty flavor, these cookies pair perfectly with raspberry, apricot, or any jam you love. They’re a must-have on holiday cookie trays or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients for Linzer Cookies Recipe
For the Cookies:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup almond flour
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling and Topping:
- ½ cup raspberry jam (or your favorite jam)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Linzer Cookies
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Divide the dough in half and flatten each portion into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
2. Roll Out and Cut the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ⅛-inch thickness.
- Use a cookie cutter (about 2–3 inches in diameter) to cut out rounds. Use a smaller cutter to cut shapes (e.g., hearts, stars) out of the centers of half the cookies. These will be the tops.
- Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
3. Bake the Cookies
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Assemble the Linzer Cookies
- Spread a thin layer of jam on the flat side of each whole cookie (the bottoms).
- Gently place the cutout cookies (the tops) on top of the jam layer, pressing lightly to sandwich them together.
- Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Why This Linzer Cookies Recipe Stands Out
This recipe delivers the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The cookies are buttery, tender, and lightly spiced, while the jam adds a burst of sweetness and fruity brightness. Their elegant appearance makes them ideal for entertaining or gifting, and the recipe can be easily customized with different shapes and fillings to suit any occasion.
Tips for Perfect Linzer Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough ensures the cookies hold their shape during baking.
- Use Almond Flour: For authentic flavor, almond flour is a must. If you don’t have it, finely ground hazelnuts are a great substitute.
- Choose the Right Jam: Seedless jams work best for a smooth filling. Heat the jam slightly if it’s too thick to spread.
- Store Properly: Linzer cookies can soften over time. For the best texture, store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! The cookies can be baked and stored (unassembled) in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Assemble them with jam just before serving.
Can I freeze Linzer cookie dough?
Absolutely. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rolling out.
What other fillings can I use?
In addition to jam, try lemon curd, Nutella, or chocolate ganache for a creative twist.
How long do Linzer cookies last?
Once assembled, they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days in an airtight container at room temperature.
Do I need almond flour?
Almond flour is traditional for Linzer cookies, but you can substitute it with finely ground hazelnuts or omit it entirely for a different texture.
How do I keep my cookies from spreading?
Ensure the dough is properly chilled, and don’t overwork it during rolling.
Where Can I Find More Recipe Ideas? You can explore more recipes in our categories: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. For additional inspiration, check out popular sites like AllRecipes and Tasty.
Conclusion
This Linzer cookies recipe is a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. With their buttery texture, sweet jam filling, and elegant presentation, these cookies are sure to become a favorite for holidays, special occasions, or any time you want a touch of sophistication in your desserts. Try this recipe today and enjoy the timeless charm of Linzer cookies!