With their delicate, nutty dough, jam-filled centers, and dusting of powdered sugar, Linzer cookies are a holiday showstopper! These beautiful sandwich cookies are known for their intricate designs and a burst of fruity sweetness with every bite. Named after the famous Linzer Torte, Linzer cookies bring a touch of elegance to any cookie platter and have a fascinating history that makes them even more special.
Linzer cookies originated in Eastern Europe but are enjoyed all over France come tea time. These heart-shaped and raspberry-filled cookies are perfect for Valentine’s Day, but consider different shapes like stars or Christmas trees for other holidays throughout the year.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 270g fresh raspberries
- 187g granulated sugar
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- 187g butter
- 100g granulated sugar
- 267g flour
- 14g almond powder
- 2 eggs
- Powdered sugar, for topping
Recipe Instructions
1. Make the jam: combine raspberries and sugar in a pan and heat the mixture over low heat.
2. When it comes to a boil, turn up the heat to medium for 10 minutes and stir frequently.
3. Turn down the heat again, add the lemon juice, and let the jam reduce for 5 minutes.
4. Wait until the jam thickens (about 15 to 20 minutes total), then pour it into a glass bowl and refrigerate until it is completely cold. While the jam is cooling down, preheat the oven to 160°C/320°F and prepare your sweet dough.
5. Make the sweet dough: soften the butter and incorporate the sugar. You may use a mixer if you want.
6. Mix in the flour and the almond powder until you have a homogeneous mixture.
7. Add the eggs, one at a time.
8. Form a ball and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
9. Roll out the dough to the thickness you desire with your rolling pin.
10. Cut shapes with a cookie cutter and place pieces on the baking sheet.
11. Bake the cookies for 15 minutes.
12. Once cooled, cover the cookies that will go on top when sandwiched together with powdered sugar.
13. Spread the raspberry jam with a spoon on the cookies that will go on the bottom.
14. Sandwich cookies together by placing those with powdered sugar gently on top of the jam-covered cookies.
Why We Love Linzer Cookies
Linzer cookies are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The buttery, nutty cookie perfectly balances the sweet-tart jam filling, while the powdered sugar dusting adds a delicate sweetness that’s just right. With their elegant look and delicious taste, Linzer cookies make an excellent choice for holiday baking, gift-giving, or even as a centerpiece for a festive gathering.
Linzer cookies are a timeless treat that brings together European elegance and holiday warmth in every bite. Whether you’re baking them as a family tradition or sharing them as thoughtful homemade gifts, these cookies are sure to impress. Try this recipe to add a little Austrian charm to your holiday table and enjoy the classic flavors of Linzer cookies all season long!
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