Pistachio Linzer Cookies

Pistachio Linzer Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Linzer cookie, offering a unique flavor and charming appearance. With their rich buttery goodness, nutty undertones from ground pistachios, and sweet-tart jam filling, these cookies are sure to impress at any gathering or dessert table. They’re perfect for holidays, special occasions, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special. Let’s dive into this tempting recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 120
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 50mg

Why Make This Pistachio Linzer Cookies

Pistachio Linzer Cookies stand out not just for their beautiful layered look but also for their incredible taste. The combination of buttery cookie with a hint of pistachio, complemented by the sweetness of raspberry or apricot jam, creates a delightful balance that’s hard to resist. These cookies are visually appealing, making them a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings, afternoon tea, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee.

How to Make Pistachio Linzer Cookies

Creating these cookies is a rewarding task that’s sure to impress anyone who tastes them. Follow the detailed steps to bake the perfect batch of Pistachio Linzer Cookies that are just the right amount of crunchy and chewy.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup ground pistachios
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Raspberry or apricot jam for filling
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies start baking at the right temperature.

Step 2: Mixing

In a bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, making your cookies tender.

Step 3: Combining

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined. This adds flavor and moisture to your cookie dough.

Step 4: Whisking Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground pistachios, and salt. This ensures that the pistachios are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Forming Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 6: Chilling

Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 7: Rolling Out Dough

On a floured surface, roll out one half of the dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Make sure the surface is well-floured to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Shaping Cookies

Cut the rolled dough into desired shapes using cookie cutters. For half of the cookies, cut a small hole in the center to create a window for the jam filling.

Step 9: Baking

Place the cut-out cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Step 10: Cooling and Assembling

Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, spread some jam onto the solid cookies and top with the cut-out cookies, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 11: Dusting

Finally, dust the finished cookies with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

How to Serve Pistachio Linzer Cookies

Serve your Pistachio Linzer Cookies on a plate dusted with powdered sugar as a delightful treat for guests. They pair perfectly with tea, coffee, or milk, making them an ideal snack any time of day.

How to Store Pistachio Linzer Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, they can also be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Expert Tips for Perfect Pistachio Linzer Cookies

• Ensure your butter is properly softened to room temperature for optimal creaming.
• Use freshly ground pistachios for the best flavor; store-bought can sometimes lack freshness.
• If you want a more intense flavor, consider toasting the ground pistachios before adding them to the dough.
• When rolling out your dough, keep the thickness consistent for even baking.

Delicious Variations

• Substitute other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts instead of pistachios for a different flavor.
• Use different types of jam, such as strawberry or orange marmalade, to switch up the flavor profile.
• For a chocolatey twist, add cocoa powder to half of the dough to create a marbled effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a couple of days in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

• What can I use instead of pistachios?
  If pistachios aren’t available, try using finely ground almonds or walnuts for a similar texture.

• How do I know when the cookies are done?
  Look for the edges to be lightly golden. The tops may not change much in color, so focus on the edges.

• Can I use whole nuts instead of ground?
  It’s recommended to use ground nuts for the best texture in cookies, but you could finely chop whole nuts if necessary.

• Can I make these gluten-free?
  Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, just ensure it’s a one-to-one substitute.

Conclusion

Pistachio Linzer Cookies are a delightful treat that marries the buttery flavors of traditional Linzer cookies with the unique taste of pistachios. Their beautiful presentation and delicious flavors make them perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, feel free to experiment with flavors, and enjoy the wonderful results of your baking adventure!

Pistachio Linzer Cookies

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• Author: mia-harper
• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Pistachio Linzer Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic Linzer cookie, featuring buttery goodness, nutty undertones from ground pistachios, and a sweet-tart jam filling.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup ground pistachios
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Raspberry or apricot jam for filling
• Powdered sugar for dusting

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground pistachios, and salt in another bowl.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
7. Roll out half of the dough to about 1/8 inch thick on a floured surface.
8. Cut the rolled dough into desired shapes using cookie cutters, cutting a small hole in the center for half of the cookies.
9. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
10. Let cool completely on a wire rack, then spread jam on solid cookies and top with the cut-out cookies.
11. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: European

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg