Linzer cookies are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Their soft, nutty dough pairs perfectly with fruity jam, creating a balanced flavor that isn’t overly sweet. They’re perfect for holidays, special occasions, or gifting, and can be customized with different shapes and fillings. Despite their elegant appearance, they’re surprisingly simple to make at home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flour
finely ground almonds
unsalted butter, softened
granulated sugar
egg yolks
vanilla extract
lemon zest
salt
baking powder
fruit jam (such as raspberry or apricot)
powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions
In a bowl, whisk together flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add egg yolks, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to form a soft dough.
Wrap the dough and chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 3 mm thickness.
Cut out cookies using round or decorative cutters. Cut a small window in the center of half of them.
Place on the baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool completely.
Spread jam on the bottom halves, then place the cut-out cookies on top.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: about 20 sandwich cookies Preparation time: 20 minutes Chilling time: 1 hour Cooking time: 10–12 minutes Total time: about 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
You can use different nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts instead of almonds. Try various jams such as strawberry, blackberry, or even citrus marmalade. Add a hint of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a warm spice note. Chocolate spread can also be used for a richer filling.
Storage/Reheating
Store Linzer cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For best texture, assemble them shortly before serving. If refrigerated, allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Why is my dough too crumbly?
It may need a bit more moisture; try adding a small amount of butter or egg yolk.
Can I freeze Linzer cookies?
Yes, freeze unfilled cookies for up to 2 months.
What jam works best?
Raspberry and apricot are traditional favorites.
Do I have to use nuts?
The nuts add flavor and texture, but you can substitute with more flour if needed.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
The dough may not have been chilled מספיק before baking.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I get clean cut-out shapes?
Chill the dough well and use sharp cookie cutters.
Can I use store-bought jam?
Absolutely, any good-quality jam works well.
Why dust only the top cookies?
It keeps the filling visible and prevents the sugar from dissolving into the jam.
Conclusion
Linzer cookies are a timeless treat that combine elegance with delicious flavor. With their buttery texture and sweet jam filling, they’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea.
These The Best Linzer Cookies are delicate, buttery sandwich cookies made with a lightly nutty dough and filled with sweet fruit jam. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, these classic cookies are perfect for holidays, gifting, or elegant desserts that look as beautiful as they taste.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:10–12 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 30 minutes
Yield:20 sandwich cookies
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Austrian / European
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup finely ground almonds
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon zest
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ cup fruit jam (raspberry or apricot)
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add egg yolks, vanilla extract, and lemon zest; mix until combined.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients to form a soft dough.
Wrap the dough and chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out dough to about 3 mm thickness on a floured surface.
Cut out cookies, creating a small window in half of them.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
Cool completely on a rack.
Spread jam on the bottom cookies, then top with cut-out cookies.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
Chill dough thoroughly to prevent spreading.Assemble cookies shortly before serving for best texture.Use high-quality jam for the best flavor.
