Linzer Cookies

When I think of holiday baking, Linzer Cookies always come to mind. These sweet, buttery delights have a rich history that dates back to the Austro-Hungarian Empire. I remember the first time I tried them at a quaint little bakery during a winter trip to Vienna. The aroma of baked sweets wafting through the air, the delicate layers of dough, and the vibrant cherry jam peeking through the cutout shapes—it was love at first bite. Each time I make Linzer Cookies, I’m transported back to that magical moment, and I know I’m not just baking cookies; I’m creating memories for my loved ones.

Recipe Ingredients for Linzer Cookies

To create these delightful Linzer Cookies, you’ll need a harmonious blend of ingredients. At the heart of this recipe are staple ingredients like butter, sugar, flour, and jam. Each plays a crucial role in crafting cookies that are tender, flavorful, and beautifully layered. The almond flour adds a nutty depth that pairs perfectly with any fruit filling you choose.

• 1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams, room temperature): The foundation of your cookie dough, providing that rich and creamy texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams): This sweetener is essential for balancing the flavors and creating a tender crumb.
• 1 large egg (50 grams, room temperature): The binding agent that holds everything together, adding moisture and richness.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams): Enhances the overall flavor profile, making each bite delightful.
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour (300 grams): The main structure of your cookie, allowing for easy shaping and a firm texture.
• ½ cup almond flour (48 grams): Adds a unique flavor and tenderness that traditional cookies may lack.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (4 grams): This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and become light and airy.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
• ¼ cup powdered sugar (28 grams): For a sweet finishing touch that beautifies your cookies.
• ½ cup cherry jam (170 grams): The classic filling that brings the Linzer Cookies to life, but feel free to experiment with your favorite jams!

How to Assemble Linzer Cookies

Assembling Linzer Cookies is a delightful process that transforms simple ingredients into stunning treats. Let’s dive into the step-by-step journey of creating these cookies that are bound to become a family favorite!

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. You’ll want to see a pale, creamy texture—this means your mixture is well-aerated and ready for the next step.
2. Add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined. The mixture may look slightly curdled at this point, but that’s perfectly fine!
3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 2½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup almond flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. This dry mix forms the backbone of your cookies, so make sure to blend well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in the stand mixer. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
5. Once your dough comes together, divide it into two equal discs. Wrap each in plastic wrap and chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it firms up the dough, making it easier to roll out.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). When the dough is chilled, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about ¼-inch thick. Aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform baking.
7. Using a cookie cutter, cut out your desired shapes (think circles, stars, or hearts!) from the dough. Place the cutouts on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should aim to create about 36 cookies.
8. Next, take a smaller cookie cutter to cut the center out of half of the cookies. This creates a lovely window for the jam to show through.
9. Chill the cut cookies in the freezer for another 30 minutes. This helps them retain their shape while baking.
10. Once chilled, bake the cookies for 13 to 15 minutes, or until they are just golden brown. Keep a close eye on them—overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Let them cool completely on the tray.
11. When the cookies have cooled, dust the tops of the cookies with cutouts using ¼ cup powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
12. To assemble, spread about 1 tablespoon of cherry jam onto each whole cookie. Carefully place a powdered sugar-dusted cookie on top to create delightful sandwiches.

Substitutions and Tips

When it comes to baking, having some tips and tricks up your sleeve can make all the difference. Here are some valuable insights for making Linzer Cookies a success:

• Storage: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Variations: Feel free to switch up the jam filling to your liking. Raspberry and apricot are also delicious alternatives!
• Cutting Shapes: Use flour on your cookie cutter to prevent sticking. This will make it easier to transfer the cut cookies to the baking sheet.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for a gluten-free version of Linzer Cookies.

Serving This Linzer Cookies

You’ll be thrilled to discover how perfectly Linzer Cookies can fit into various occasions and gatherings! Here are some great ideas for serving:

• Holiday Cookie Trays: Arrange them on a festive platter alongside other cookies for a beautiful presentation during the holidays.
• Tea Parties: These cookies make a delightful addition to any afternoon tea or brunch spread.
• Gifting: Package them in a decorative box or tin. They make thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
• Late Night Snacks: Serve them with a glass of milk for a nostalgic late-night treat that everyone will love.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy Linzer Cookies in the fall with a warm cup of chai or in the winter with hot cocoa for a comforting experience.
• Storage Tips: These cookies can be made ahead of time and stored for several days, making them perfect for planning your holiday baking.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Linzer Cookies are a treasure of rich flavors and delightful textures, making them a cherished treat for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with family during the holidays or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to impress. I encourage you to try making them yourself; it’s an experience filled with joy and delicious rewards!

Linzer Cookies

The ultimate comfort food, Linzer Cookies are rich, buttery delights filled with your choice of jam. Their charming shapes dusted with powdered sugar make them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Bake a batch tonight and treat your loved ones to this delightful taste of tradition!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 18 sandwich cookies

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: Austrian

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter 226 grams, room temperature
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar 200 grams
• 1 large Egg 50 grams, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract 4 grams
• 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour 300 grams
• 0.5 cup Almond Flour 48 grams
• 1 teaspoon Baking Powder 4 grams
• 0.25 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 0.25 cup Powdered Sugar 28 grams
• 0.5 cup Cherry Jam 170 grams

Equipment

• Kitchen Scale (optional)
• Stand Mixer
• Rolling Pin
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine 1 cup unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Mix until everything is just combined.
3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 2½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup almond flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in the stand mixer. Mix on low speed until just combined.
5. Divide the dough into two equal discs. Wrap each in plastic wrap and chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). When the dough is chilled, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about ¼-inch thick.
7. Using a cookie cutter, cut out your desired shapes from the dough. Place the cutouts on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Take a smaller cookie cutter to cut the center out of half of the cookies.
9. Chill the cut cookies in the freezer for another 30 minutes.
10. Bake the cookies for 13 to 15 minutes, or until they are just golden brown. Let them cool completely on the tray.
11. When the cookies have cooled, dust the tops of the cookies with cutouts using ¼ cup powdered sugar.
12. To assemble, spread about 1 tablespoon of cherry jam onto each whole cookie. Carefully place a powdered sugar-dusted cookie on top to create delightful sandwiches.

Notes

• Homemade Almond Flour: If you can’t find almond flour, you can make your own by adding 48 grams of almonds to a food processor and processing them until fine.
• Nut-Free Version: If you want to make these cookies nut-free, just swap the almond flour for ½ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make these cookies gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for an equal amount of gluten-free 1:1 baking flour.
• Jam Choices: I’m making these linzer cookies with cherry jam, but you could use any jam that you like! Strawberry and apricot are the most traditional jams used in linzer cookies.
• Rolling Dough: You may need some flour to roll out the cookies, but try to avoid adding too much, as this could lead to dry, crumbly cookies.

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Meet Hazel Miller

The Flavor Enthusiast Yes, Jenna and I are related! Growing up, our kitchen was the center of our world, and that hasn’t changed. I am a curious cook who loves exploring new ingredients and techniques. I don’t have a single specialty I just love the magic of transformation. Whether we are grilling outdoors or baking indoors, I am always right there, tasting, testing, and ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.