Linzer Cookies
Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of linzer cookies, a classic pastry that combines a crumbly texture with a sweet jam filling. Originating from Austria, these delightful treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon tea. Their charming appearance and delicious flavor make them a favorite among cookie lovers, inviting everyone to share in the joy of baking. Let’s dive into the recipe that will fill your kitchen with warmth and sweet aromas!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup raspberry jam (or your favorite jam)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with a cooking time of 12-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 150 calories, 8g fat, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g protein. Note that these values may vary based on ingredient choices.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, making sure to cut out a center for half of the cookies.
- Place the cut cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- Spread jam on the solid cookies and top with the cut-out cookies. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have almond flour, you can use more all-purpose flour or substitute with ground hazelnuts for a different flavor. Additionally, any fruit jam works well, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Serving and Pairings
Linzer cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert platter or holiday cookie box, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Storage and Reheating
Store linzer cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature; no reheating is necessary.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until combined.
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps maintain the cookie shape.
- Use a light hand when rolling the dough to prevent it from becoming too dense.
- Watch the baking time closely to avoid overbaking.
Helpful Tips
- Use a variety of jams for different flavor profiles.
- Consider adding a bit of lemon zest to the dough for extra flavor.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving for the prettiest presentation.
- Experiment with different cookie shapes to make them festive.
FAQs
Can I make linzer cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. You can also bake the cookies and store them for a week or freeze them for later.
What type of jam is best for filling?
Raspberry jam is traditional, but you can use any flavor you like, such as apricot, strawberry, or even lemon curd for a unique twist.
Are linzer cookies gluten-free?
They are not gluten-free as they contain all-purpose flour. However, you can substitute gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free version.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading?
Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before baking. This helps maintain the shape and texture of the cookies.
Can I decorate linzer cookies?
Absolutely! You can add icing, edible glitter, or sprinkles for a festive touch.
Conclusion
Linzer cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that bring joy to any occasion. With their buttery richness and sweet jam filling, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy baking and sharing these timeless treats!
Linzer Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup raspberry jam
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, making sure to cut out a center for half of the cookies.
- Place the cut cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
- Spread jam on the solid cookies and top with the cut-out cookies. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
