Name: Reindeer Linzer Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup almond flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup raspberry jam; Powdered sugar for dusting

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Reindeer Linzer Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Linzer cookie, perfect for the holiday season. With their charming reindeer shapes and a luscious layer of raspberry jam sandwiched in between, these cookies not only taste amazing but also add a festive flair to any dessert table. Their buttery texture paired with the fruity jam creates a wonderful treat that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 120
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 30mg

Why Make This Reindeer Linzer Cookies

These Reindeer Linzer Cookies stand out during the holiday season, offering a fun and festive touch to your dessert offerings. The combination of buttery cookie and vibrant raspberry jam creates a pleasant contrast that’s irresistible. Not only are they delicious, but they also invite engagement in the kitchen as you shape the cookies into adorable reindeer forms. They are a beautiful addition to gift baskets, holiday parties, or cozy family gatherings, providing both a treat and an opportunity to create lasting memories.

How to Make Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your cookies bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 2: Mixing

In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, making your cookies tender.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

Mix in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Shaping Cookies

Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes—half of them will be whole reindeer cookies while the other half will have a center cut out, giving them a peek-a-boo effect.

Step 5: Baking

Place half of the cookie cutouts on a baking sheet. For the other half, use a smaller cutter to cut out the center. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 6: Cooling and Assembling

Let the cookies cool completely. Spread raspberry jam onto the solid cookies, then sandwich them with the cutout cookies. Finally, dust the top with powdered sugar for that finished, snowy look.

How to Serve Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Serve these delightful cookies at festive gatherings, as part of a holiday dessert table, or simply with a cup of tea or hot cocoa. They also make for thoughtful holiday gifts when placed in decorative tins or bags.

How to Store Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to preserve their freshness, consider placing parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Expert Tips for Perfect Reindeer Linzer Cookies

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes if it becomes too soft, which makes rolling out easier.
Use a variety of jams for different flavors—strawberry, apricot, or even chocolate spread make excellent alternatives.

Delicious Variations

Nut-Free Version: Swap almond flour for more all-purpose flour to accommodate nut allergies.
Spiced Cookies: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle over assembled cookies for an elegant touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Reindeer Linzer Cookies?
Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, layer cookies between parchment and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What if I don’t have almond flour?
You can substitute almond flour with more all-purpose flour or ground oats for a similar texture.
Can I use different jams?
Yes, feel free to experiment with any fruit jam you enjoy. Apricot or cherry jam also works well.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
The dough may be too warm. Chill it for a bit before baking to help retain their shape.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
You can add colorful sprinkles on top of the jam layer or use themed cookie cutters for different shapes.

Conclusion

Reindeer Linzer Cookies are a charming and delicious way to celebrate the holiday season. With their buttery texture and fruity center, they’re sure to be a hit among family and friends. Whether you bake them as a playful addition to your festive gatherings or as sweet treats to share, these cookies are sure to inspire joy and warmth. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends into the kitchen, and enjoy the wonderful process of creating these delightful cookies together!