Linzer Cookies

Name: Linzer Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 40 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 20 cookies
Ingredients: 250 g all-purpose flour (about 2 cups); 150 g cold, cubed butter (about ⅔ cup); 100 g ground blanched almonds (about 1 cup); 100 g powdered sugar (about ¾ cup); 1 egg yolk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; Jam of your choice; Powdered sugar for dusting

Discover the joy of baking with our delightful Linzer Cookies! These easy dessert recipes combine the buttery richness of shortcrust pastry with the tangy...

Servings

20 cookies

Prep Time 1 hour

Cook Time 10 minutes

Ingredients

For the Dough
250 g all-purpose flour (about 2 cups)
150 g cold, cubed butter (about ⅔ cup)
100 g ground blanched almonds (about 1 cup)
100 g powdered sugar (about ¾ cup)
1 egg yolk
1 tsp vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

For the Filling
Jam of your choice

For Decoration
Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions

1
Combine flour, powdered sugar, ground almonds, and salt in a bowl. Add the cold butter cubes and process into a crumbly mixture.
2
Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Quickly knead into a smooth dough. Shape the dough into a flat disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) top/bottom heat (160°C fan). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
4
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 3–4 mm thick. Cut out circles (approx. 5 cm in diameter) or other shapes (e.g., hearts, flowers). Use a small cutter to create a hole in the center of half the shapes.
5
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10–12 minutes. They should remain light in color and only turn slightly golden at the edges. Keep an eye on them after 9 minutes. The cookies will be soft when they come out of the oven but will firm up as they cool.
6
Spread a thin layer of jam on the bottom cookies (the ones without holes).
7
Dust the top cookies (the ones with holes) with powdered sugar before gently placing them on the jam-covered cookies. Optionally, lightly dust the sides of the cookies with powdered sugar as well.

Video

FAQ

Linzer Cookies Questions

What are Linzer Cookies and what makes them special?

Linzer Cookies are a classic sweet treat that originates from Linz, Austria. They consist of a tender shortcrust pastry that is enriched with ground almonds, giving the cookies a nutty flavor and delightful texture. Their luscious fruity filling, typically made with raspberry jam, and the intricate design with a cut-out top layer makes them perfect for festive occasions.

How do I ensure my Linzer Cookies come out perfectly?

To achieve perfectly baked Linzer Cookies, use high-quality ingredients, ensure butter is at room temperature, rest the dough in the refrigerator, roll out to a uniform thickness of 0.5 cm, and bake until light golden. Timing is crucial since they harden slightly as they cool.

Can I customize the filling of my Linzer Cookies?

Yes! Linzer Cookies can have various fillings. Besides traditional raspberry jam, you can use apricot, strawberry, cherry jam, flavored jams, or homemade fruit compote, ensuring the filling is not too runny for best results.

How should I store Linzer Cookies to keep them fresh?

Store assembled Linzer Cookies in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerated. They taste better the next day as flavors meld, but enjoy them within a week for optimal freshness.

Are Linzer Cookies a suitable option for special dietary needs?

Linzer Cookies can be adapted for special dietary needs. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free flour with a binding agent. Replace ground almonds for nut-free versions, and use plant-based margarine or coconut oil and a flaxseed egg for vegan renditions. Ensure the jam fits dietary restrictions.

delicious, tested, and ready to inspire