Linzer Raspberry Cookies are sweet little treats that are perfect for any occasion. They feature a delicate almond-flavored dough, sandwiched with yummy raspberry jam!
These cookies look fancy but are so easy to bake! I love making them because they’re always a hit at parties. Don’t forget a dusting of powdered sugar for that extra touch! 🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling saltiness. If you’re out, coconut oil or margarine can be used as a substitute, although they might change the flavor a bit.
Granulated Sugar: While regular sugar is perfect, you can swap it with coconut sugar for a slight caramel flavor, or use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Almond Flour: Finely ground almonds give a wonderful nutty taste. If you’re allergic or prefer not to use nuts, oat flour or even more all-purpose flour work as good alternatives.
Raspberry Jam: Seedless raspberry jam keeps the cookies smooth; however, you can use other fruit jams like apricot or strawberry for a twist. If you’d like it healthier, consider homemade fruit spreads.
How Do You Get the Perfect Dough Consistency?
Getting the right dough consistency is key for Linzer cookies. Start by thoroughly creaming the butter and sugar, ensuring it’s fluffy before adding other wet ingredients. This aeration gives cookies a nice texture.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least an hour to firm it up; this prevents spreading during baking.
- When rolling out the dough, keep it a bit thicker (1/8 inch) to retain structure and flavor after baking.
- A light dusting of flour on your rolling surface helps prevent sticking, but avoid too much flour on the dough itself.
Linzer Raspberry Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup almond flour (finely ground almonds)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
For the Filling and Topping:
- 1/2 cup raspberry jam (seedless preferred)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and an additional 1 to 1.5 hours to chill, plus around 10 minutes for baking. Total, you’re looking at about 2 hours to complete these delightful cookies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Next, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
3. Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough in half and flatten each half into a disk. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
4. Preheat and Roll Out:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut the Cookies:
Using a round fluted cookie cutter (approximately 2-3 inches in diameter), cut out cookies from the dough. From half of the cookies, use a smaller heart-shaped cutter (or any shape you like) to create the window that will hold the jam.
6. Bake the Cookies:
Place the whole cookies on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for about 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool completely on wire racks.
7. Assemble the Cookies:
Once all cookies are cooled, gently spread about 1 teaspoon of raspberry jam on each whole cookie. Then, top each jam-covered cookie with a cookie that has the cut-out center.
8. Finishing Touches:
Dust the assembled cookies generously with powdered sugar for that lovely finishing touch. Serve and enjoy these beautiful Linzer Raspberry Cookies!
This recipe yields tender, buttery cookies with a nutty almond flavor, filled with bright, sweet raspberry jam and a cute powdered sugar topping, just like in the image. Happy baking!
Can I Use Different Types of Jam?
Absolutely! While raspberry jam is traditional, you can replace it with any favorite fruit jam, like strawberry, apricot, or even blackberry. Just ensure it’s well-spreadable for easy assembly.
What Should I Do If My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, don’t worry! You can sprinkle a little more all-purpose flour while rolling it out. Just be careful not to add too much as it can alter the cookie’s texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer them fresh, you can freeze the unassembled cookies and jam separately, then assemble when ready to enjoy!
Can I Make the Dough in Advance?
Yes, you can make the dough a day or two in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to soften slightly before rolling out.
