When it comes to holiday baking, nothing feels quite as festive as Linzer Cookies. These Austrian-inspired almond-flavored cookies are delicate, buttery, and filled with a layer of tangy raspberry jam, finished off with a gentle dusting of powdered sugar. It’s the kind of cookie that looks as magical as it tastes, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and flavors that capture the essence of the holiday season. Whether you’re making these for family, friends, or a holiday cookie swap, Linzer Cookies are the perfect balance of tradition, flavor, and beauty.
🍪 The Story Behind Linzer Cookies
Linzer Cookies are named after the Linzer Torte, an Austrian pastry made with a nutty crust, lattice top, and fruit filling. The torte is said to be one of the oldest known cakes in the world, dating back to the 17th century. Linzer Cookies were created as a more portable, bite-sized version, perfect for sharing and gifting. Made with almond flour for that signature nutty flavor and filled with jam, these cookies are a beautiful way to bring a touch of Austria to your holiday table.
Baking these cookies feels like a fun (and delicious!) history lesson. As we cut out each shape and dust them with powdered sugar, we’re reminded of the generations that have enjoyed this same recipe. There’s something heartwarming about carrying on this tradition, knowing that Linzer Cookies have been a holiday favorite for centuries.
🌰 Almond Flour for a Unique Flavor and Texture
The use of almond flour is what gives Linzer Cookies their signature texture and flavor. Almond flour adds a slight nuttiness and makes the cookies extra tender, enhancing their melt-in-your-mouth quality. Almonds are also rich in vitamins and add a little boost of plant-based goodness to these treats!
Baking Linzer Cookies: A Festive Family Tradition
One of our favorite things about making Linzer Cookies is that they’re just as fun to bake as they are to eat. Rolling out the dough, cutting out each cookie, and choosing fun shapes for the centers feels like a festive, creative activity. The beauty of Linzer Cookies is in their assembly—each cookie is made of two layers, with a “window” on top that lets the jam peek through. This gives them that classic, elegant look that makes them perfect for holiday cookie trays or homemade gifts.
When we bake these cookies, it feels like the holidays are in full swing. The aroma of almond and vanilla fills the kitchen, and once we add that sweet-tart raspberry jam, each cookie becomes a little masterpiece. For us, these cookies symbolize togetherness and warmth, bringing family and friends closer over the joy of baking.
🍓 Try Different Jams for Fun Flavor Twists!
Raspberry is traditional, but feel free to try apricot, strawberry, or even blackberry jam for a unique twist. Each flavor brings something new and delicious to these classic cookies.
The Perfect Sweet and Tart Flavor Combination
Linzer Cookies have a flavor that’s both classic and sophisticated. The buttery almond dough is slightly sweet, while the jam brings a burst of fruity tartness that keeps each bite balanced. Dusting the top layer with powdered sugar gives them that snowy, festive appearance and adds just the right amount of sweetness.
We love how versatile these cookies are. Not only do they look stunning on holiday platters, but they also make a wonderful gift. Just package them in a cute holiday tin, and you have a homemade gift that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. And if you’re looking to keep them vegan, they’re easy to adapt by swapping out the butter for plant-based butter and using your favorite vegan jam. These cookies are so full of flavor and tradition that everyone will love them, no matter their dietary preference.
🌟 Fun Fact: Linzer Torte is Considered the Oldest Cake Recipe!
The Linzer Torte, which inspired Linzer Cookies, is believed to be one of the oldest known cakes, dating back to the 1600s in Austria. That’s over 400 years of delicious history!
Bring a Touch of Europe to Your Holiday Baking
Linzer Cookies are more than just cookies—they’re a holiday tradition that brings warmth, flavor, and a bit of Austrian charm to any gathering. Baking them feels like a small celebration, as each step brings these beautiful cookies to life. From their delicate almond flavor to the vibrant raspberry jam center, these cookies have a timeless appeal that makes them perfect for holiday festivities. So, grab your favorite jam, dust off those cookie cutters, and enjoy the experience of creating (and tasting!) a treat that has delighted families for centuries.
Linzer Cookies are a wonderful way to share the holiday spirit, whether you’re gifting them, bringing them to a party, or simply enjoying them with your family. Here’s to a season filled with cozy traditions, delicious flavors, and the joy of sharing something sweet and special with loved ones!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup almond flour or finely ground almonds
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup raspberry jam or any preferred jam
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and mix until fully combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten each portion into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to roll.
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about ⅛-inch thickness. Use a round or fluted cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Use a smaller cookie cutter to cut out the centers of half of the cookies (these will be the tops). Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Assemble the Cookies: Spread a small amount of raspberry jam on the flat side of each whole cookie. Place a cookie with a cut-out center on top to create a sandwich. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors meld beautifully after a day or two.
- Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month.
- Jam Variety: While raspberry jam is traditional, you can experiment with other jams like strawberry, apricot, or blackcurrant for different flavor combinations.
🎄 Frequently Asked Questions About Linzer Cookies
Can I make Linzer Cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Linzer Cookies can be made up to a week in advance. Store them in an airtight container, layering with parchment paper to keep them fresh. If possible, wait to add the jam and powdered sugar until the day you plan to serve them to keep them at their best.
What’s the best type of jam for Linzer Cookies?
Raspberry jam is traditional, but you can use any fruit jam you like! Apricot, strawberry, and blackcurrant are all popular choices. Choose a jam with a thick consistency for the best results, as thinner jams can make the cookies soggy over time.
Can I freeze Linzer Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze Linzer Cookies without the jam for up to 3 months. Bake and cool the cookies, then layer them in an airtight container with parchment paper between each layer. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw, add the jam, and dust with powdered sugar.
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