Linzer Cookies
These classic Austrian sandwich cookies feature a nutty, buttery shortbread base filled with vibrant fruit preserves and dusted with a snowy layer of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
- •1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225g)
- •2/3 cup granulated sugar (135g)
- •1 large egg
- •1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- •2 cups all-purpose flour (250g)
- •1 cup almond flour (100g)
- •1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- •1/4 teaspoon salt
- •1/2 cup raspberry or apricot preserves
- •1/4 cup powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- 2
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt.
- 4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- 5
Divide the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- 6
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- 7
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness and cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
- 8
Use a smaller cutter to remove the center from half of the cookies to create the 'window' tops.
- 9
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, then let cool completely on a wire rack.
- 10
Spread a small amount of preserves on the solid bottom cookies and place the cutout cookies on top, pressing gently.
- 11
Dust the tops generously with powdered sugar before serving.
💡 Chef tips
- For the best texture, ensure your almond flour is finely ground; if it is too coarse, the dough may be crumbly.
- To prevent the cookies from spreading, chill the cut shapes on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before putting them in the oven.
- These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, though they are best enjoyed after the jam has softened the cookie slightly.
✅ How it should turn out
The finished cookies should have a delicate, nutty crunch that melts in your mouth, balanced by the sweet, tart burst of fruit jam and a beautiful, festive appearance.