Linzer Cookies Recipe

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Linzer cookies are a delightful treat that hail from Austria, traditionally made during the Christmas season. These cookies consist of a rich, buttery dough filled with a sweet jam center and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar.

What makes Linzer cookies truly special is their combination of nutty almond flavor and fruity jam filling. Whether you cut them into festive shapes or keep it simple with classic rounds, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Get ready to learn how you can make these delicious cookies at home, with easy-to-follow steps and tips for perfect results every time.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Butter: You’ll need 1 cup (227 grams) of unsalted butter, softened. If you only have salted butter, skip adding extra salt later.

Powdered Sugar: Use ¾ cup (90 grams) of powdered sugar. Granulated sugar can be used instead, but it changes the texture.

Egg Yolks: 2 large egg yolks make the dough rich and tender. No eggs? Use 2 tablespoons of applesauce for each yolk.

Vanilla Extract: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. For a twist, try almond extract.

Salt: Include ½ teaspoon of salt. If using salted butter, you can reduce or omit this.

Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) of lemon juice. Lime juice or white vinegar can also work.

Ground Cinnamon: Use ½ teaspoon (1 gram) for a hint of spice. Feel free to skip it if you prefer plain cookies.

All-Purpose Flour: You need 2½ cups (312.5 grams) of all-purpose flour. You can substitute a gluten-free baking mix if needed, but check for guidelines on quantity.

Almond Flour: Add 1 cup (237 grams) of almond flour. No almond flour? Use finely ground almonds or more all-purpose flour.

Jam: Any ¾ cup (180 grams) of your favorite jam will work. Raspberry or apricot are classics.

These ingredients are key to making delicious Linzer cookies. Feel free to experiment with substitutes to make the recipe your own!

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
• In a small bowl, whisk the egg and vanilla. Set both bowls aside.

2. Mix Butter and Sugar:

• In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

3. Combine Ingredients:

• Add the egg mixture to the butter and sugar. Mix at a low speed until everything is well blended.

4. Add Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture. Combine until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.

5. Form the Dough:

• Transfer the dough to a clean work surface. Knead it gently into a smooth ball.

6. Chill the Dough:

• Wrap the dough in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour to make it easier to handle.

7. Roll Out and Cut:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Half of the cookies should have a smaller shape cut out in the middle.

8. Bake:

• Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are just golden.

9. Assemble:

• Let the cookies cool on a rack. Spread jam on the whole cookies. Dust the cookies with cut-out centers with powdered sugar, then place them on top.

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Choose the Right Container: Use an airtight container to keep your Linzer cookies fresh. Glass or plastic containers with tight lids work great.

Keep them Soft: For a softer texture, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The cookies will absorb moisture from the bread.

Freezing Linzer Cookies: Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing Cookies: Thaw frozen Linzer cookies at room temperature before serving.

Cool Completely: Let your cookies cool completely on a wire rack before storing to prevent sogginess.

Layering Cookies: Use parchment paper between layers to avoid cookies sticking together.

Storage Time: For the best taste, consume stored cookies within a week.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

There are several fun ways to make Linzer cookies your own. Here are a few ideas for variations and how to serve them:

Recipe Variations:

1. Jam Choices: Use different flavors of jam like raspberry, strawberry, apricot, or even lemon curd.
2. Nut Flour: Substitute almond flour with hazelnut or walnut flour for a unique taste.
3. Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or use ground cloves along with cinnamon.
4. Chocolate Fillings: Swap the jam for melted chocolate or Nutella.
5. Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and a flaxseed egg substitute.

Serving Suggestions:

• Tea Time: Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Holiday Treats: Great for holiday cookie exchanges.
• Gift Boxes: Place them in decorative boxes or tins for gifting.
• Dessert Plate: Serve alongside other small treats for a delightful dessert platter.
• Brunch Addition: Pair with fresh fruits for a brunch spread.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas!