Linzer cookies are a perennial holiday fave  : Everything you need to know about these classic cookies.

Discover how to make classic Linzer cookies at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for holiday gifting and festive treats!

Linzer cookies are a beloved holiday treat that combines buttery, nutty dough with sweet jam fillings. These classic cookies are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a perfect addition to your holiday baking list. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy Linzer cookies recipe will guide you through creating these festive delights.

Linzer cookies originate from Austria and are named after the city of Linz. They are known for their delicate, sandy texture and the signature peekaboo effect created by cutting out shapes in the top layer of dough. Traditionally, these cookies are filled with raspberry jam, but you can experiment with other flavors like apricot or strawberry.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best Linzer cookies at home. From selecting the right ingredients to mastering the baking process, you’ll find all the tips and tricks to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

What Are Linzer Cookies?

Linzer cookies are a type of sandwich cookie made with a buttery, nutty dough. The dough is typically flavored with spices like cinnamon or cloves and is often enriched with ground nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts. The cookies are assembled by spreading jam between two layers of dough, with the top layer featuring a decorative cut-out that reveals the jam filling.

These cookies are a staple during the holiday season, but their delightful flavor and elegant appearance make them a favorite year-round. They are often shaped into rounds or other festive shapes, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.

Ingredients for Linzer Cookies

To make classic Linzer cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup finely ground almonds or hazelnuts
• ½ cup raspberry jam (or your preferred jam)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

How to Make Linzer Cookies – Step by Step

Follow these steps to create the perfect batch of Linzer cookies:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground nuts, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten each into a disk, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for making the dough easier to handle and preventing it from spreading too much during baking.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out the bottom layers of the cookies. For the top layers, use a smaller cutter or a shaped cutter to create the decorative cut-outs. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Assemble the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a thin layer of raspberry jam on the bottom layer of each cookie. Place the top layer with the cut-out over the jam, gently pressing down to create a sandwich. Dust the assembled cookies with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Tips for Perfect Linzer Cookies

Creating the perfect Linzer cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out beautifully:

• Use Cold Butter: Ensure your butter is softened but still cold to the touch. This helps create a tender, crumbly texture in the dough.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least an hour makes it easier to roll out and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
• Roll Evenly: Roll the dough to an even thickness to ensure the cookies bake uniformly. A thickness of about ¼-inch is ideal.
• Cut with Precision: Use sharp cookie cutters to create clean edges. For the top layers, choose cutters with festive shapes to add a decorative touch.
• Bake in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. Leave enough space between cookies to allow for even baking.
• Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely before assembling them. This prevents the jam from melting and ensures the cookies hold their shape.
• Dust Lightly: Use a fine-mesh sieve to dust powdered sugar over the assembled cookies for a professional finish.

Serving Suggestions

Linzer cookies are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. They also make a beautiful addition to holiday cookie platters and are perfect for gifting. For a festive touch, package them in decorative boxes or tins.

Storage Instructions

Store Linzer cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you need to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies (without the jam filling) for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before assembling and serving.

Variations and Substitutions

While the classic Linzer cookie recipe is a favorite, there are several variations you can try:

Nut-Free Option

If you have nut allergies, you can substitute the ground almonds or hazelnuts with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. The texture will be slightly different, but the cookies will still be delicious.

Different Jam Fillings

Experiment with different types of jam, such as apricot, strawberry, or blackberry, to create unique flavor combinations. You can also use lemon curd for a tangy twist.

Spiced Dough

Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the sweetness of the jam.

Nutritional Benefits

While Linzer cookies are undoubtedly a treat, they do offer some nutritional benefits. The ground nuts in the dough provide healthy fats and a bit of protein, while the jam offers a dose of fruit. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Common Questions About Linzer Cookies

Here are some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying Linzer cookies:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for a smoother dough and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix the dough just until it comes together to avoid developing too much gluten, which can make the cookies tough.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.
• Experiment with Shapes: Use different shaped cutters for the top layer to create a variety of designs, such as stars, hearts, or snowflakes.
• Add Citrus Zest: For a bright flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before rolling and baking.
• Double the Batch: Linzer cookies freeze well, so consider making a double batch to enjoy later.
• Use Quality Jam: Opt for high-quality, thick jam to prevent it from seeping out of the cookies.