If you’re looking for a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion, look no further than Linzer cookies! These elegant, jam-filled cookies are not only delicious but also a joy to make.
With a nutty flavor from the almond flour and a sweet burst from your favorite jam, these cookies are perfect for holiday gifting or just indulging yourself.
Plus, they’re easy enough for bakers of all levels to whip up.
Let’s dive into the world of Linzer cookies and explore how you can make your own batch at home!
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
Linzer cookies are like little bites of happiness.
They combine buttery, crumbly cookies with sweet, fruity jam, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
The heart-shaped cutout reveals the bright jam inside, making these cookies not only tasty but also visually stunning.
Whether you’re serving them at a tea party, holiday gathering, or simply enjoying an afternoon snack with a cup of tea, these cookies will impress everyone at the table.
Plus, making them at home allows you to customize the flavors and types of jam, making each batch unique!
Ingredients
To get started, here’s everything you need to make these delightful Linzer cookies:
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 ½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (85 g) almond flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup jam (any kind, or multiple kinds)
- ¼ cup powdered sugar for dusting
How To Make Linzer Cookies
Step 1: Preparation
First things first, gather all your ingredients and let the butter soften to room temperature.
This is super important as it helps in making a fluffy cookie dough.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar.
Using an electric mixer, cream them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Extracts
Next, add in the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
Mix on low speed until everything is well combined.
The extracts add a lovely depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the almond flour.
Step 4: Combine the Flours and Salt
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture.
Mix on low speed until the dough comes together.
Don’t over-mix – just until you no longer see any dry flour!
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is mixed, shape it into two discs and wrap each disc in plastic wrap.
Chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
This step solidifies the butter, making it easier to roll out the dough.
Step 6: Roll Out and Cut
After chilling, take one disc out of the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness.
Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter to create a heart or circle cutout in the center, allowing the jam to peek through.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart.
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Keep an eye on them, as overbaking can make them hard.
Step 8: Cool and Assemble
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Once cooled, spread a teaspoon of your favorite jam on the whole cookies, and place the cutout cookies on top, creating a lovely sandwich.
Step 9: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Finally, dust the tops of the cookies with powdered sugar for that beautiful finishing touch.
Your Linzer cookies are now ready to be enjoyed!
Expert Tips
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
- Chilling the dough is essential to make it easier to roll out and to prevent spreading during baking.
- Experiment with different jams like raspberry, apricot, or even chocolate spread for variety.
- Use high-quality extracts for the best flavor in your cookies.
Variations and Customizations
- Try mixing different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a seasonal twist.
- Swap out the almond extract for orange or lemon zest for a fresh citrusy flavor.
- Decorate with icing or chocolate for more flavor and a fun presentation.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare, but just in case!), store the Linzer cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
They will stay fresh and tasty for up to a week.
If you want to keep them longer, you can also freeze them.
Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough in advance.
Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a day before using.
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the wrapped dough, and thaw it in the fridge before rolling it out.
What kind of jam is best for Linzer cookies?
You can use any jam you like! Traditional flavors include raspberry or apricot, but feel free to get creative with your favorites, such as strawberry, cherry, or even lemon curd.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can technically use margarine.
Just ensure that it’s a stick variety for the best results.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Linzer cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Make sure to check that your almond flour is also labeled gluten-free.
Conclusion
There you have it, a comprehensive guide to making scrumptious Linzer cookies! Flaky, buttery, and sweet, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them.
Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or gift them to a friend, they are a delightful treat that’s worth every bite.
Get your apron on, gather those ingredients, and start baking some delicious Linzer cookies today! Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll have the perfect cookies for any occasion.
Happy baking!
