Linzer Sandwich Cookies
If you’re on the hunt for a delightful cookie that combines the buttery richness of a classic cookie with the fruity burst of jam, look no further than Linzer Sandwich Cookies. These cookies are not just beautiful; they are a true testament to the art of baking. With their tender texture and luscious filling, they are perfect for any occasion—from festive gatherings to simple afternoon tea. With each bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors, enhanced by the hint of lemon and the warmth of cinnamon. Gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the delightful world of Linzer Sandwich Cookies!
Why You’ll Keep Making It
The charm of Linzer Sandwich Cookies lies in their versatility and elegance. Here are a few reasons you’ll want to whip these up time and time again:
- They are visually stunning, making them perfect for gifting or serving at special occasions.
- The almond flour adds a delightful nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the jam filling.
- With a splash of lemon zest and a sprinkle of cinnamon, each cookie bursts with flavor.
- They can be customized with different jams like raspberry or apricot, allowing for endless variations.
- Perfect for sharing—these cookies are sure to impress family and friends!
What You’ll Gather
Before you start baking, make sure you have these ingredients on hand:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting the tops
- 2 large egg yolks
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup almond flour (or hazelnut flour)
- ¾ cup raspberry jam (or apricot jam)
Must-Have Equipment
To ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable, gather the following equipment:
- Mixing bowl – for creaming the butter and sugar.
- Electric mixer – to beat the ingredients together effortlessly.
- Baking sheets – for placing your cookies before baking.
- Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cookie cutters – traditional shapes or festive designs to make the cookies special.
- Sifter – for ensuring your powdered sugar is lump-free.
- Cooling rack – to let your cookies cool properly.
Linzer Sandwich Cookies — Do This Next
Now that you have everything, it’s time to create your delicious Linzer Sandwich Cookies! Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Egg Yolks and Flavorings
Add the egg yolks, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the salt, ground cinnamon, all-purpose flour, and almond flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape them into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Step 5: Preheat and Roll Out
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
Step 6: Cut Out Cookies
Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. For half of the cookies, use a cutter with a center cut-out to create the signature Linzer look.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the cut-out cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on a rack.
Step 8: Fill and Assemble
Once cooled, spread a layer of your favorite raspberry or apricot jam on the flat side of the whole cookies. Place the cookies with the cut-out on top, dust with powdered sugar, and gently press down.
Fresh Seasonal Changes
One of the beautiful aspects of Linzer Sandwich Cookies is their adaptability to seasonal flavors. Here are some ideas to keep things fresh:
- Spring: Use lemon curd or strawberry jam for a light, fruity flavor.
- Summer: Swap in peach or blueberry preserves to celebrate the season’s bounty.
- Fall: Try using apple butter or pumpkin spice filling for a cozy twist.
- Winter: Fill with a spiced cranberry jam or a rich chocolate ganache for a festive touch.
What I Learned Testing
Baking these cookies was a delightful journey, and here are a few insights I gained along the way:
- Chilling the dough is non-negotiable! It helps in handling the dough easily and results in a neater cookie.
- Experimenting with different types of flour can yield interesting textures; almond flour adds a lovely nutty flavor.
- Using high-quality jam makes a significant difference in flavor—opt for homemade or artisan varieties when possible.
- Don’t skimp on the powdered sugar dusting! It not only adds sweetness but also enhances the presentation.
Prep Ahead & Store
These cookies can be prepped in advance, making them great for busy bakers:
To prepare ahead, make the dough and chill it for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. You can also bake the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to one week. Just be sure to fill them with jam on the day you plan to serve them to maintain their freshness. For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Layer them between parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months.
Quick Q&A
Can I substitute the almond flour with another type of flour?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use hazelnut flour, or even a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly.
What’s the best type of jam to use?
Raspberry and apricot are traditional, but feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors, like cherry or even chocolate spread for a unique twist.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Chilling the dough is key! Ensure your dough is adequately chilled before rolling out and baking.
Can these cookies be made vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with vegan butter and use flax eggs in place of egg yolks for a vegan version of Linzer Sandwich Cookies.
Desserts to Finish
If you’re a fan of cookies, you might also enjoy:
- Italian Cookies – A classic treat with a delightful twist.
- Dark Chocolate Orange Cookies – A rich and zesty blend.
- Easy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies – A chewy classic that never goes out of style.
Wrap-Up
Baking Linzer Sandwich Cookies is a rewarding experience that combines the joy of crafting beautiful pastries with the delight of indulging in something truly scrumptious. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to brighten up a regular day, these cookies are sure to impress. With their unique flavor profile and stunning appearance, they bring a sense of joy to the table, making every gathering a little sweeter.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy the delightful journey of creating your own batch of Linzer Sandwich Cookies. Happy baking!
Linzer Sandwich Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add egg yolks and flavorings: Incorporate the egg yolks, lemon zest, and vanilla extract into the butter mixture until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together salt, ground cinnamon, all-purpose flour, and almond flour. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Chill the dough: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat and roll out: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
- Cut out cookies: Use cookie cutters to cut shapes. For half, use a cutter with a center cut-out for the Linzer look.
- Bake the cookies: Place cut-out cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Cool on a rack.
- Fill and assemble: Spread jam on the flat side of whole cookies, top with cut-out cookies, dust with powdered sugar, and press gently.
Notes
- Chill the dough for easier handling and neater cookies.
- High-quality jam enhances the flavor—choose artisan varieties if possible.
- Dusting with powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also elevates presentation.
