Linzer Cookies

There is something about Linzer cookies that feels like stepping into a cozy kitchen on a snowy December afternoon, even if you are making them in the middle of July. These little sandwich cookies are buttery and delicate, lightly sweet, and filled with that jewel toned pop of jam that somehow makes them feel both vintage and irresistible. They have that same energy as a warm hug from someone who always smells like vanilla extract and holiday spices. Trust me, you are going to love this. Once you make a batch, you will understand why these cookies have stuck around for generations.

Before we get into the details, I want you to imagine this. You pull a tray of these soft golden cookies out of the oven. They are still warm, tender enough that you know they will melt a little when you bite into them. You spread a spoonful of raspberry or apricot jam between them. You lift the top cookie, the one with the little cutout at the center, and gently press it down until the jam peeks through like a tiny stained glass window. When you sprinkle powdered sugar over everything, it settles into the grooves like fresh snow. It is incredibly satisfying. And the best part is that these are so much easier to make than people expect. Seriously, this one is a game changer.

Recipe Origin

Linzer cookies have a long European heritage, and they trace back to the famous Linzer torte from Austria. That dessert is made with almond flour, butter, and jam, just like these cookies. Over time bakers realized that these flavors worked perfectly in a smaller, hand held form. They became the kind of treat you would find in bakeries around Austria, Germany, Hungary and eventually all over the world. Today Linzer cookies are a classic holiday bake, but honestly they deserve to be made year round. They feel fancy, but they are really simple and forgiving once you get into the rhythm of the dough.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Rolling Pin
Cookie Cutters, including one small cutter for the center
Mixing Bowls
Fine Mesh Sieve for the powdered sugar
Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper
Cooling Rack
Rubber Spatula

Why You’ll Love Linzer Cookies

This recipe is all about creating moments. You can make these on a quiet weekend afternoon when you want something cozy and nostalgic. You can make them for a bake sale where everyone starts circling the table trying to grab one before they run out. You can make them as a sweet surprise for someone you care about. These cookies fit into any moment and somehow make everything feel a little more special. Here is why they are a favorite.

Versatile

These cookies work for holidays, birthdays, tea parties, or just a simple dessert moment at home. Picture yourself setting a plate of these in the center of the table. People reach for them before they even ask what they are. They look like bakery level cookies, but the ingredients are humble, and the steps are simple enough for any home baker.

Budget Friendly

You probably already have the key ingredients. Butter, flour, sugar, jam. Almond flour is the only thing you may need to pick up, and it lasts a long time so you can use it again for other recipes. This recipe proves that you can make something beautiful without buying anything fancy.

Quick and Easy

The dough mixes together in one bowl. You chill it for a bit, roll it out, cut the shapes, and bake. These are not fussy cookies. Even if they are not perfectly uniform, they still look charming and taste delicious. If you usually avoid recipes that feel too complicated, try this one. You will surprise yourself.

Customizable

You can fill these with any jam you like. Raspberry gives that bright ruby color and tart flavor. Strawberry makes them sweet and nostalgic. Apricot adds a sunny golden color and a milder flavor. You can even use lemon curd or chocolate spread if you are feeling creative. You can also change the shapes of the cutouts. Hearts, stars, circles, little flowers. Anything goes.

Crowd Pleasing

Adults love these because they taste like something from a European bakery. Kids love them because the jam filling is sweet and fun. They feel festive without being heavy. If you ever want to impress someone with your baking, this is the cookie to bring.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Use room temperature butter. It should be soft enough to press with a finger but not melted. This helps your dough come together smoothly.
Chill the dough. Warm dough sticks and spreads, but chilled dough holds its shape beautifully.
Roll the dough evenly. This keeps the cookies from baking unevenly. You can even use rolling pin guides if you have them.
Bake just until the edges turn lightly golden. They should not brown deeply.
Add the powdered sugar after assembling or before. Both methods work. If you want the jam to look glossy, sprinkle sugar on the top cookie before sandwiching.
Use high quality jam. It makes a big difference in flavor.

Ingredients

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Linzer Cookies

Butter: This is what gives the cookies their melt in your mouth texture. When it creams with the sugar, it creates a dough that feels rich and soft without being heavy.
Sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough. These cookies are not overly sweet because the jam brings extra sweetness.
Egg: Helps bind everything together and gives the dough structure so it is easy to roll.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and flavor that pairs perfectly with almond flour and jam.
All Purpose Flour: The base of the dough. It brings everything together and keeps the cookies tender.
Almond Flour: This is what makes Linzer cookies special. It adds a subtle nutty flavor and a soft, delicate crumb.
Salt: Brings out the natural flavors and keeps the cookies from tasting flat.
Jam: Raspberry, strawberry, or apricot. Choose your favorite. Each one creates a different personality for the cookie.
Powdered Sugar: A final touch that makes the cookies look snowy, soft, and irresistible.

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature in your recipe card. Starting with a hot oven gives the cookies the best texture and helps them bake evenly.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until the mixture looks pale and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla and mix until smooth. Add both flours and the salt. Mix until the dough just comes together and stop before it gets overmixed.

Prepare Your Dough

Divide the dough into two portions and flatten each into a disc. Wrap them and chill until firm enough to roll. This step makes everything easier later.

Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough to an even thickness. Cut out your cookie shapes. For half of them, use the small cutter to create the window in the center.

Bake the Cookies

Place them on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake until the edges look very lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on a rack before filling.

Assemble the Cookies

Spread a small spoonful of jam onto the flat side of a full cookie. Place the cookie with the cutout window on top and press gently until the jam reaches the center.

Finishing Touches

Dust with powdered sugar. Use a small sieve to get that perfect snowy finish.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve these cookies at room temperature. They are soft, delicate, and delicious with tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk. They also make beautiful gifts.

Nutrition Facts

Servings:
Calories per serving:

Preparation Time

Prep Time:
Cook Time:
Total Time:

How to Serve Linzer Cookies

These cookies are lovely on their own, but if you want to elevate the moment, here are some ideas.

Fresh Fruit: Serve with berries or sliced fruit to add a bright and refreshing contrast.
Warm Drinks: These cookies taste wonderful with hot chocolate, tea, or a warm latte.
Ice Cream: Sandwich a tiny scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a fun dessert twist.
Cookie Platter: Combine these with shortbread, chocolate cookies, or biscotti for a festive dessert board.
Gift Boxes: Pack them in tissue lined boxes for gifting. They look beautiful tied with a ribbon.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

These cookies keep beautifully. You can make the dough ahead, chill it, or freeze it for later. Once baked, store in an airtight container. The jam keeps them soft, which makes them even better on day two.

Variations to Try

Use lemon curd instead of jam for a tangy filling.
Dip the edges in melted chocolate.
Add orange zest to the dough.
Use hazelnut flour for a different nutty flavor.
Fill with chocolate hazelnut spread instead of jam.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Save time by mixing the dough the day before.
Spice It Up: Add cinnamon for a cozy flavor twist.
Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten free flour if needed.
Storage Tips: Store in a sealed container for several days. Use parchment between layers.
Double the Batch: These cookies make great gifts, so making extra is always smart.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different flour instead of almond flour?
A1: You can, but almond flour gives the classic texture. If you must substitute, try finely ground hazelnuts.

Q2: Can I make these ahead?
A2: Yes. The dough can be made and chilled or frozen ahead of time.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q4: Can I freeze Linzer cookies?
A4: Yes. Freeze before filling or after assembling.

Q5: What if I do not have a small cutter for the window?
A5: Use the back of a piping tip. It works perfectly.

Q6: My dough is sticky. What do I do?
A6: Chill it longer or add a tiny sprinkle of flour.

Q7: Can I double the recipe?
A7: Yes. These freeze well and keep beautifully.

Q8: Why did my cookies spread?
A8: The dough was too warm. Chill before baking.

Q9: Can I use jam with seeds?
A9: Yes, although seedless gives a smoother finish.

Q10: Can I make these without powdered sugar?
A10: Yes. They will be less snowy looking but still delicious.

Conclusion

Linzer cookies are one of those bakes that feel timeless and comforting. They look delicate, but they are surprisingly simple. They are the kind of cookie that makes people smile the moment they see them and fall in love the moment they taste them. Whether you are baking for a holiday, a special moment, or just for yourself, these cookies turn every day into a little celebration. Try them once and they might just become your new favorite tradition.

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