Linzer Cookies

1. Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine 300 grams of plain flour, 100 grams of ground almonds, 100 grams of caster sugar, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon.

Grate 200 grams of cold, unsalted butter directly into the bowl with the flour. Grating the butter ensures that it is evenly distributed throughout the dough, resulting in a more uniform consistency. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, quickly rub the grated butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This process should be done quickly to prevent the butter from warming up too much.

In a small bowl, whisk 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of cold water, then add it to the dough. Mix until the dough just comes together, adding more water if necessary. Divide the dough and form it into two discs, wrap them in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking trays with baking parchment.

3. Roll Out the Dough

Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 3-4 mm thickness. Using a cookie cutter (any shape you like), cut the dough out and place it on the lined baking tray.

Roll out the second disc and cut out the dough using the same cookie cutter. Using a smaller cookie cutter, piping tip, or anything else you have on hand, make a hole in the centre of these shapes.

4. Bake

Bake the cookie pieces for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Once baked, allow them to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Assemble the Linzer Cookies

Dust the cookie pieces with the holes generously with icing sugar.

Apply a thin layer of jam to the cookie pieces without a hole. Place the ones with the holes over the jam and press lightly to bring them together.

6. Serve

Serve your Linzer Cookies with a warm drink such as tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, especially in the colder months.

These cookies make a lovely gift. Package them in a decorative box or jar and add a ribbon for a special touch.

Tips for Perfect Linzer Cookies

Here are some tips to make your Linzer Cookies even more delicious:

Cold Ingredients: Keep the butter cold and handle the dough minimally to prevent it from becoming greasy.

Chill the Dough: Chilling for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) ensures the Linzer Cookies hold their shape, reduces spreading, and intensifies the flavour.

Don’t Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid tough Linzer Cookies.

Jam Consistency: If your jam is too runny, heat it briefly to thicken it before spreading it on the cookies.

Variations to Try

Here are some delicious variations you can try to put your own spin on the Linzer Cookies:

Nut-Free: Replace the ground almonds with additional flour or ground sunflower seeds.

Spiced Linzer: For festive flavours, add a pinch of cardamom, nutmeg, or ginger.

Chocolate Filling: Replace jam with chocolate ganache or hazelnut spread.

Storage Suggestion

Here’s how to keep your Linzer Cookies fresh and delicious:

At Room Temperature: Store the assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Place a layer of baking parchment between the cookies to prevent them from sticking together.

In the Fridge: For longer freshness, store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They last up to 2 weeks.

In the Freezer: You can freeze the cookies unassembled or fully assembled. To freeze unbaked cookies, place them on a baking tray and freeze until solid, then place them in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

To freeze the assembled cookies, place them in a single layer in an airtight container with baking parchment between the cookies. They last up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Note: If storing the Linzer Cookies in the fridge or freezer, avoid adding icing sugar until serving so it doesn’t absorb moisture.

Related Recipes

Looking for more simple yet delicious cookie recipes? Check out the following recipes:

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Meringue Cookies

Conclusion

Whether you’re sharing them with friends or enjoying them yourself, Linzer cookies are always a pleasure. Their rich flavour and beautiful presentation make them the perfect homemade gift or a stunning addition to your baking repertoire.