Linzer Cookies

Introduction

There’s something undeniably magical about Linzer cookies. These delicate, buttery cookies with a hint of almond and a sweet jam-filled center are the kind of treat that never fails to put a smile on anyone’s face. Originally from Austria, Linzer cookies are often enjoyed during the holidays, but they’re so delicious you’ll find yourself craving them year-round!

I remember my first attempt at making Linzer cookies. My grandmother shared her recipe with me, and as we pressed the dough, filled the centers with jam, and dusted the tops with powdered sugar, the kitchen filled with warmth and laughter. Now, every time I bake them, it brings back those cozy memories.

In this recipe, I’ll show you how to create these beautiful sandwich cookies with simple, accessible ingredients. You’ll love the crisp, crumbly texture of the almond-flavored cookie and the fruity burst of jam in the center. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Beautiful and festive: Linzer cookies look gorgeous, with their delicate shape and powdered sugar dusting.
• Bursting with flavor: A delightful mix of buttery richness, almond flavor, and a sweet jam center that adds a bright note.
• Perfect for any occasion: They’re lovely for holidays, special gatherings, or even as an afternoon snack with tea.
• Fun to make: This is a great recipe to make with family or friends; everyone can get involved in cutting out shapes, filling with jam, and dusting with powdered sugar.

The buttery, nutty taste is balanced perfectly by the fruity jam, giving these cookies a sophisticated yet approachable flavor that everyone can enjoy. Let’s get started with the essentials!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling time)
• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Nutrition: Approximately 120 calories per cookie

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): For that rich, buttery texture.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the nutty flavors.
• 1 large egg yolk: Helps bind the dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Key for that classic almond taste.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough.
• 3/4 cup almond flour: Gives the cookies their signature nutty taste and delicate crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 cup raspberry or apricot jam: Traditional choices, but you can pick any jam you love.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting): Finishes the cookies with a beautiful, snowy touch.

Each ingredient brings something special to these cookies. Almond flour adds that melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the jam brings a pop of color and flavor. Let’s move on to the instructions!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your own batch of Linzer cookies!

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating well after each addition until everything is nicely incorporated.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
   • Tip: Don’t overmix! Overworking the dough can make the cookies tough instead of tender.
2. Chill the Dough:
   • Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out and cut.
3. Roll Out and Cut the Cookies:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
   • Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round or scalloped cookie cutter to cut out as many cookies as you can.
   • For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter to cut out the center of each cookie—these will be the “windows” for the jam.
   • Gather the scraps, roll them out, and repeat until you have equal numbers of whole and cut-out cookies.
4. Bake the Cookies:
   • Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about an inch of space between them.
   • Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
5. Assemble the Linzer Cookies:
   • Once the cookies are cooled, spread about 1/2 teaspoon of jam onto the flat side of each whole cookie.
   • Dust the tops (the ones with cut-out centers) with powdered sugar for that beautiful, snowy finish.
   • Place a cut-out cookie on top of each jam-covered cookie, pressing down gently so the jam peeks through the “window.”
6. Enjoy:
   • Serve these beauties on a tray, and enjoy the compliments! The cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

How to Serve

Linzer cookies are traditionally served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a vibrant jam center, which makes them a lovely addition to any dessert table. Here are a few serving ideas:

• With Tea or Coffee: Serve alongside your favorite warm drink for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Holiday Platter: Arrange them with other cookies for a festive spread.
• Gift-Wrapped: These make wonderful homemade gifts, especially during the holidays.

Additional Tips

• Chill the Dough: Chilling helps the cookies keep their shape and makes the dough easier to work with.
• Use Seedless Jam: For a smooth finish, use seedless jam. If you have regular jam, you can warm and strain it to remove seeds.
• Alternative Flavors: Raspberry and apricot are classics, but strawberry, blackberry, or even lemon curd can work beautifully.
• Avoid Overbaking: Linzer cookies should be pale in color. Baking them too long will make them crispier rather than soft and crumbly.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: Dust the cut-out tops before assembling for a cleaner finish.

Recipe Variations

Here’s how to make Linzer cookies your own:

• Nut-Free Option: Use all-purpose flour in place of almond flour for a nut-free version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute a gluten-free flour blend and almond flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Chocolate Linzer Cookies: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate twist. Fill with raspberry jam for a decadent pairing!
• Cinnamon Spiced Linzer: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for a cozy, spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of Linzer cookies is a delightful contrast to a rich, creamy hot chocolate.
• Afternoon Tea Spread: Serve them with a variety of teas and mini sandwiches for a charming afternoon tea.
• Paired with Fresh Fruit: Arrange Linzer cookies on a plate with fresh berries for a beautiful presentation.

Freezing and Storage

Linzer cookies store and freeze well, so you can make them ahead for a special occasion.

• Storage: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, store in the fridge.
• Freezing: The baked cookies (without jam) can be frozen for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw them at room temperature, dust with powdered sugar, and assemble with jam.

Special Equipment

• Cookie Cutters: A round or scalloped cutter for the base cookies and a small cutter for the center cutouts.
• Fine Mesh Sieve: For dusting the cookies evenly with powdered sugar.
• Parchment Paper: Keeps the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of nuts?
Yes! You can try hazelnut flour or even pistachio flour for a unique twist on flavor.

How do I keep the jam from spilling out?
Use a thicker jam or fruit preserve that will hold its shape better. You can also add a touch of cornstarch to the jam if it’s too runny.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. Wrap the dough tightly and refrigerate it for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 1 month.

Can I use a different type of flour if I don’t have almond flour?
Yes! If you don’t have almond flour or prefer a nut-free option, you can substitute it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. However, the almond flour is what gives Linzer cookies their signature flavor and delicate, crumbly texture. If you’re after the traditional taste, try to include it, or you can even use hazelnut or pecan flour as a substitute.

What kind of jam works best for Linzer cookies?
Raspberry or apricot jam is traditional for Linzer cookies, but feel free to experiment! Strawberry, blackberry, and even lemon curd add wonderful flavors. Just make sure to use a thick, seedless jam to prevent it from spilling out. If your jam is too runny, you can heat it slightly and stir in a bit of cornstarch to thicken it.

Print

Conclusion

Linzer cookies are a true classic, a cookie with roots that go back centuries yet never fails to make people smile. Whether you’re making them for a holiday celebration or just because, they’re sure to be a hit. The delightful combination of buttery, nutty dough with a sweet and tangy jam center is absolutely irresistible. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do!