These Linzer cookies are a timeless classic, a delicate, buttery sandwich cookie filled with fruit jam and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Linzer cookies with their signature cutout centers have a festive and elegant feel, yet are surprisingly simple to make!
Linzer cookies are known for their classic cutout design, a delicate, buttery sandwich cookie filled with sweet fruit jam (or hazelnut spread or lemon curd if you’re feeling adventurous) and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar.
These cookies are inspired by the classic Linzer Torte. Rich butter, almond flour, warm cinnamon and refreshing lemon scent For a perfectly balanced taste they are ideal Holiday cookie trays, gifts, special celebrations, baking with kids.It stores beautifully, making it a great option to prepare ahead during busy seasons.
Tips for perfect Linzer cookies:
- Chill the dough: This will prevent it from spreading and make rolling much easier.
- Do not overbake. Cookies should remain pale. If it browns, it will become dry.
- Roll evenly: Consistent thickness helps cookies bake evenly and sandwich neatly.
- Dust before assembly: This will prevent the jam from getting stuck in powdered sugar and losing its distinctive shape.
- Separate small cutouts: Bake faster. Store on a separate sheet.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Paper jam options: Use apricot, blackberry, cherry or mixed berry jam.
- Nut Free: Replace the almond flour with all-purpose flour (cookies will be slightly less tender).
- Spice Exchange: Try using nutmeg or cardamom instead of cinnamon.
- Citrus Twist: Orange peel or juice can be substituted for lemon for a warmer flavor.
- Chocolate Linzer Cookies: For a chocolate version, replace ¼ cup of flour with cocoa powder. Fill with hazelnut spread.
- Gluten Free: Mix gluten-free flour and almond flour 1:1.
Linzer Cookies FAQ
Why do Linzer Cookies use almond flour?
Almond flour gives Linzer cookies a classic soft texture and subtle nutty flavor.
Can I make the dough in advance?
yes! Dough can be stored in the refrigerator 2 days or frozen 3 months.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
This usually means the dough hasn’t cooled long enough or the butter is too soft.
Can the kids help make cookies?
entirely! Kids love cutting shapes and assembling sandwich cookies.
How long do Linzer cookies stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container and keep fresh for up to 100 days. 1 week At room temperature.
Storage and prep tips:
- Room Temperature: Store assembled cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked (unfilled) cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and fill before serving.
- Stay ahead: Bake the cookies ahead of time and assemble them on the day you plan to serve them for the best texture.
More of our favorite cookie recipes:
Linzer Cookies
These Linzer cookies are a timeless classic, a delicate, buttery sandwich cookie filled with fruit jam and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar. Linzer cookies with their signature cutout centers have a festive and elegant feel, yet are surprisingly simple to make!
Serving Size: 32
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup icing sugar
- 2 large in size egg yolk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 1/2 cup All-purpose flour (spoon horizontally)
- 1 cup Almond flour, spoon and spread horizontally
- 1/2 cup Raspberry or strawberry jam
- powdered sugar for decoration optional
In a large mixing bowl, using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, beat the butter until creamy. 1-2 minutes.
Add powdered sugar and mix until combined. Add egg yolk and mix again.
Add salt, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix just until incorporated.
On low speed, add all-purpose flour and almond flour and mix just until dough comes together.
Divide dough in half and shape into 1-inch-thick disks. Wrap well in plastic wrap and leave to cool. at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
Preheat the oven 350°F Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out one disk at a time on a lightly floured surface. ¼ inch thick.
To cut cookies, use a 2-inch cookie cutter. If desired, use a smaller cutter to cut the centers from half of the cookies.
Place cookies 1 to 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. baking 9-10 minutesCookies until they look dry but not brown.
Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Spread jam on hard cookies. If desired, sprinkle the cutout cookies with powdered sugar and top them to create sandwich cookies.
