Name: Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: Austrian
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting); Your choice of fruit jam (raspberry, apricot, or any favorite)

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Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies are a delightful treat that will make your heart sing! These cookies, with their tender, buttery texture and sweet fruit filling, are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a tea party, gathering with friends, or simply indulging on your own, these cookies bring joy in every bite. The classic Linzer cookie, inspired by the traditional Austrian dessert, is not just beautiful but also incredibly delicious.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 150
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 50mg

Why Make This Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies – Baking with Blondie

Making Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies is a fantastic way to explore baking without feeling overwhelmed. These cookies are not only easy to make but also allow for plenty of creativity with filling options, whether you choose raspberry jam, apricot preserves, or even chocolate ganache. Their distinctive shape and beautiful dusting of powdered sugar make them visually appealing, while their soft texture and delightful sweetness make them incredibly enjoyable to eat. Plus, they are perfect for sharing with loved ones or adding to cookie platters during the holiday season.

How to Make Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies – Baking with Blondie

Follow these steps to create your very own batch of delightful Linzer Cookies. With a little time and love, you’ll be rewarded with a treat that brings smiles all around!

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Your choice of fruit jam (raspberry, apricot, or any favorite)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mixing

In a medium bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, salt, and ground cinnamon. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix until thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Dough Formation

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a tender dough. Once combined, gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This chilling will help the cookies maintain their shape when baking.

Step 4: Cutting and Baking

After chilling the dough, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out your desired shapes. For half of the cookies, use a smaller cutter to cut out the centers to create a window for the jam filling. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool completely.

Step 5: Assembling

Spread a thin layer of your chosen fruit jam on the solid cookie halves. Place the cookie halves with cutouts on top of the jam-filled cookies. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for that beautiful finishing touch.

How to Serve Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies – Baking with Blondie

Serve these adorable cookies on a festive plate or cookie stand. They make an impressive addition to any dessert table, especially during holidays or special gatherings. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for an extra special treat!

How to Store Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies – Baking with Blondie

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them to extend their shelf life, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies – Baking with Blondie

Ensure your butter is softened properly for easy creaming; it should be at room temperature, but not melted.
For an extra burst of flavor, experiment with flavored extracts like almond or orange in place of some vanilla.
If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour while rolling it out.
Chill the rolled-out dough once again if it starts to become too soft while cutting out shapes.

Delicious Variations

Nutty Linzer Cookies: Add finely chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts to the dough for added flavor and texture.
Chocolate-Dipped Linzer Cookies: Dip the cooled cookies in melted dark chocolate for a rich twist.
Spiced Linzer Cookies: Experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cardamom, in place of cinnamon for unique flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free flour? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends, but results may vary; ensure the blend has xanthan gum or add it separately.
How can I make the cookies less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and opt for less sweet jam for the filling.
What is the best jam to use? Traditional flavors include raspberry or apricot, but you can use any favorite fruit jam or preserves.
Can these cookies be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the assembled cookies or freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake as needed!
What if my dough is too crumbly? Add a teaspoon of milk at a time to help bind the dough, but be sure not to add too much.

Conclusion

Soft and Sweet Linzer Cookies are a delightful addition to any kitchen and are sure to impress your family and friends. These cookies combine the right amount of sweetness, nutty flavor, and a beautiful presentation to make them irresistible. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a batch that will bring smiles all around. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start baking these delicious treats today!